Red Project

Coughing? Smelling Chemicals? 🚨

A new industrial chemical has been found in drugs mixed with fentanyl locally. If you're experiencing a bad cough, ringing ears, blurred vision, or a chemical taste/smell like bug spray, plastic, or adhesive, stop using.

🎯 Get your drugs TESTED.
At Red Project, we offer free and confidential drug checking services Monday through Friday from 12pm to 4pm in order for you to have a better understanding of what is going in your body.

Protect yourself and those around you. For more information about this new substance and what you can do, visit: https://opioiddatalab.ghost.io/mystery-substance-summer-2024/

redproject.org | 616.456.9063

Stay safe, and always know what's in your supply.

Being ready to address an opioid overdose is crucial - you never know when you might encounter one.

Every year, thousands of people in the US tragically lose their lives to opioid overdoses, many of which could have been prevented if Naloxone had been readily available with someone there to administer it. Naloxone is an essential emergency medication that can reverse opioid overdoses, helping to restore normal organ function, like breathing, and providing a critical lifeline to those who need it.

Red Project offers both nasal Narcan and intramuscular Naloxone kits, completely free of cost! We are open until 5pm today in both our Muskegon and Grand Rapids offices, but we also offer free Narcan vending machines outside of both our offices as well as a few other locations here in West Michigan (DM us to find out which location is closest to you!) ☀

For more information about how Red Project's programming is investing in the lives, wellbeing, and autonomy of people who use drugs, reducing HIV and Hepatitis C transmissions*, and helping prevent/reverse opioid overdoses please call or visit:

616.456.9063 | redproject.org

**Mondays and Thursdays Red Project offers free and confidential HIV and Hepatitis C tests in our Grand Rapids office 10am-4pm**

When given access to Narcan, people who use drugs save more lives from fatal overdose than police and paramedics.

This data is from a 2020 study on Naloxone opioid overdose reversal data, and the message is clear: Access to Narcan in communities, especially within the populations of people who themselves use drugs, saves even morelives. *Over 50% of overdoses in the study were responded to by a bystander within 5 minutes of calling for help - beating paramedics and police to the punch. When it comes to someone who may not even be breathing - time is crucial.

Of course police and paramedics should continue to carry and administer Narcan, but having this life saving medication already in the hands of someone on scene increases the likelihood of survival and quick recovery.

For a free box of Narcan, or other harm reduction supplies aimed at preventing overdoses, HIV transmission and Hepatitis C infection, please contact or visit us at:

616.456.9063 | redproject.org

https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370%2820%2930218-2/fulltext #:~:text=89%20%2830%E2%B8%B16%25%29,39/74%29%20of%20cases

Syringe access programs are vital in preventing the spread of infectious diseases like HIV and Hepatitis C by providing sterile needles and safe disposal for used ones. This not only reduces the risk of transmission among users but also protects the broader population by curbing the rates of infection 💉

Investing in syringe access programs is far more cost-effective than treating these conditions later on. By focusing on prevention now, we all save on long-term healthcare costs. These programs also help keep our communities safe by reducing the number of discarded needles in public spaces. By offering free disposal services, syringe access programming ensures that used needles are properly handled, protecting everyone in the community. ☀️

Beyond disease prevention and public safety, syringe access programs serve as crucial points of contact for individuals who may be ready to seek help with substance use disorders or chaotic/harmful substance use. These programs can connect people with treatment, counseling, and other essential services, including HIV and HCV testing.

Supporting syringe access programs is a compassionate and empathetic response to those struggling with substance use. These programs acknowledge the humanity of our community members, offering support rather than judgment or punishment.

When you support your local syringe access program, such as Red Project’s Clean Works, you’re promoting public health, safety, and compassion in your community. Even if you don’t use, you still benefit from the positive impact these programs have on society as a whole.

Our sterile syringe program is open Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM, here in Grand Rapids. For more information, please visit our website or give us a call:

redproject.org | 616.456.9063

The only way to truly know your status for HIV and Hepatitis C is to get tested regularly ☀️

These conditions can often show no symptoms for years, making testing essential for early detection. Both HIV and Hepatitis C are highly treatable with early intervention - and the cure for Hepatitis C no longer requires sobriety.

Don't let fear or stigma hold you back from taking control of your health. Get tested Mondays or Thursdays from 10am-4pm at our Grand Rapids office, testing sessions are always free and confidential!

redproject.org | 616.456.9063

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Every Thursday, the Red Project hosts our Mobile Health Unit in downtown Grand Rapids, extending our services beyond traditional working hours from 5:30-7:30pm ☀

Join us this evening to learn how to save a life with Narcan, pick up any safer use or safer s*x supplies you may need, or simply ask questions! Our staff, including Harvey the Harm Reduction Hound, will be available at approximately 159 Sheldon Blvd SE.

The resources we offer aim to prevent the spread of HIV and Hepatitis C, reduce opioid overdoses, and mitigate other potential forms of harm related to substance use or s*xual activity. To learn more about our Mobile Health Units, syringe exchange program, or any of our other Hepatitis C and HIV-related programming, please call or visit:

616.456.9063 | redproject.org

Forcing individuals into drug treatment often overlooks the complexities of substance use and the individual's unique circumstances. Mandated treatment doesn't address the underlying issues that lead to substance use in the first place. Many courts administer drug treatment to those that don't actually need it, and fail to provide adequate interventions or care when they do need treatment.

Chaotic and potentially harmful substance use is often a symptom of deeper problems like trauma, untreated mental health issues, or socio-economic challenges - which must be addressed alongside substance use itself.

Harm reduction acknowledges that people struggling with their use need support, not to be forced into treatment. It focuses on minimizing the potential negative outcomes of drug use while respecting a person’s autonomy and self-efficacy.

By prioritizing health and safety, harm reduction strategies and organizations like Red Project create an environment where individuals can make informed choices about their drug use without fear of judgment or punishment. Promoting dignity, autonomy, and empowerment, which are all essential for long-term stability and health. Effective treatment is an at-will endeavor.

To learn more about Narcan access, HIV testing, recovery coaching or any of the other programs and services we offer please contact or visit:

616.456.9063 | redproject.org

Harm Reduction works: it's as simple as that.

Harm reduction emphasizes engaging directly with people who use drugs to prevent overdose and infectious disease transmission; improve physical, mental, and social wellbeing; and offer low barrier options for accessing health care services, including substance use and mental health disorder treatment.

Harm reduction is an important part of the current presidential administration's comprehensive approach to addressing substance use disorders through prevention, treatment, and recovery — empowering individuals to reach their own goals, through incremental change and retention of autonomy.

There were more than 100,000 overdose deaths in 2022* - something has to change. Funding local harm reduction initiatives like Red Project is a huge part of the answer. Paired alongside legislation, policy change, the downfall of stigma - and much more.

For more information about the harm reduction supplies, services, referrals and programs Red Project offers - or to donate and support our cause - please call or visit:

616.456.9063 | redproject.org

*https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/nvss/vsrr/drug-overdose-data.htm

About 1 in 7 people living with HIV don't know they're positive. If you aren't sure of your status, it's time to get tested ☀

Red Project offers free and confidential HIV and Hepatitis C testing Mondays and Thursdays in our Grand Rapids office from 10am-4pm every week. Our tests only take about 20 minutes to show a result, meaning you'll walk out with answers!

For more information about HIV testing, how to get connected to the HIV preventative medication PrEP, or questions about our many other programs please visit or give us a call:

redproject.org | 616.456.9063

Why should YOU get tested for Hepatitis C?

- Hepatitis C is a leading cause of liver cancer.
- Millions of Americans are living with Hepatitis C and many don't know.
- Hepatitis C can be cured!

A requirement forcing individuals to be completely abstinent for 6 months from drugs has been lifted for accessing treatment through Medicaid, meaning that the cure to Hepatitis C is more accessible than ever.

If you are unsure of your status, especially if you are a person living with HIV and are unsure, share needles, or have s*x/share hygiene supplies like razors or a toothbrush with a person living with Hepatitis C - it's time to get tested!

We offer free and confidential HIV and Hepatitis C testing every Monday and Thursday from 10am-4pm. That includes tomorrow ☀️

For more information about Hepatitis C, what behaviors could expose someone to HCV or HIV, or questions about our programming please call or visit:

616.456.9063 | redproject.org

PrEP is a medication that, when taken as prescribed, is highly effective at reducing the likelihood of HIV transmission through s*x by about 99% and through injection drug use by at least 74%.

PrEP is now available in both a daily pill and a bi-monthly injection option - giving you freedom to choose your freedom from HIV. Regardless of gender.

The first step in getting a prescription is to get an HIV test, Red Project offers free HIV and Hepatitis C testing Mondays and Thursdays from 10am-4pm ☀

For more information about our testing hours, PrEP, or our other programming please visit or call us during business hours starting this Monday at 9am:

redproject.org | 616.456.9063

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This month, Rise Authentic Baking Co. here in Grand Rapids is doing a fundraiser for our organization!

Thank you to Rise for having us as your community donut this month - the more we have outspoken support, less stigma can persist ☀️

A percentage of the proceeds will go directly into improving the health, autonomy, and lives of the community members we serve. Stop on by Rise sometime this month at 1220 Fulton St W, Grand Rapids, MI 49504!

For more information about the vital work we do here at Red Project, please call or visit:

616.456.9063 | redproject.org

Our HIV and Hepatitis C testing sessions are cancelled today due to a staff meeting!

We will be offering free and confidential HIV/HCV testing sessions again this upcoming Monday, August 5th ☀

For more information about our testing hours, or to find a Mobile Health Unit near you, please call or visit:

616.456.9063 | redproject.org

Attention Muskegon participants! Our drug checking services are cancelled for today, but we will be back up and running next week ☀

We will still be open, and offering free Fentanyl and Xylazine testing strips, along with Narcan and intramuscular Naloxone kits - and all of our typical resources. Only drug checking will be impacted today.

Thank you for your patience, if you have any questions or concerns please don't hesitate to reach out here or by calling:

231.563.6865 | redproject.org | GR office: 616.456.9063

Taken as prescribed, PrEP is highly effective at preventing HIV for every gender!

Considering PrEP? We've got you covered! Our dedicated team provides PrEP navigation services to guide you every step of the way.

The first step towards prevention and peace of mind starts with getting tested. At Red Project, we offer FREE and CONFIDENTIAL HIV testing every Monday and Thursday from 10am-4pm ☀

NOTE: This Thursday, August 1, we will be cancelling our HIV and Hepatitis C testing sessions!

Stop by Red Project and take control of your health - call and schedule a testing appointment by contacting us:

616.456.9063 | redproject.org

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In an environment where opioid overdoses are far too common, bringing Naloxone (Narcan) with you when leaving the house could easily translate into saving a life.

Naloxone is an emergency opioid overdose reversal medication that restores organ function, most importantly the diaphragm/lungs to get oxygen flowing to the brain again. Saving the individuals life and protecting their brain from hypoxic (lack of oxygen) brain injuries.

For more information about where you can get Narcan for free closest to you please visit or call:

redproject.org | 616.456.9063

Carry Naloxone this weekend!

We never know when someone near us may be experiencing an opioid overdose, so it's worth having on hand. The person writing this always does! It's simple, and gives you piece of mind knowing at any point during the day or night, you could become the first person to respond to an overdose - and you'd have exactly the perfect tool to help.

To acquire some naloxone/Narcan from one of our vending machines this weekend or an intramuscular kit during our office hours check out our new and improved website for more information and consider donating to help us save more lives!

redproject.org | 616.456.9063

Too much Narcan?

Data from paramedics in Michigan since 2019 indicates that higher dosages and new products like Nalmefene aren't needed. In fact, using high-dose or long-lasting opioid antagonists can be dangerous and lead to potentially life-threatening situations.

Read the full study here: https://www.michigan.gov/opioids/-/media/Project/Websites/opioids/documents/Trends-in-Paramedic-Naloxone-Administration-and-Patient-Outcomes-Throughout-Increased-Fentanyl-Use.pdf?rev=ea27b2337933494ea2980e978b02a5db

For more information about how you can get free Naloxone/Narcan kits, please visit or call us at:

redproject.org | 616.456.9063

Join us this evening from 5:30 until 7:30PM in downtown Grand Rapids to get some free Narcan and other harm reduction supplies aimed at preventing the spread of HIV and Hepatitis C and reducing the likelihood of fatal overdose ☀️

Our Harm Reduction Educators will be able to answer any and all questions you may have regarding safer use or safer s*x, but to learn more or sign up for a free and confidential HIV and Hepatitis C testing session please contact:

616.456.9063 | redproject.org

*xualhealth

Access to sterile syringes through syringe access programs like Red Project not only has life-saving implications for individuals who use them but also has a positive impact for us all.

It is vital that individuals who inject substances use a new, sterile syringe every time to prevent the transmission of HIV and Hepatitis C, while also reducing the risk of needle-related damage due to repeated use.

Through regular visits to syringe access programs, individuals gain access to Narcan for overdose reversal, along with vital harm reduction information, including resources for recovery coaches, suboxone programs, support groups, and other healthcare services. Harm reduction educators also assist individuals in adopting safer consumption methods, supporting their well-being and reducing potential negative outcomes associated with substance use.

When individuals who use drugs use syringe access centers/programs, they are less likely to transmit or contract HIV and Hepatitis C, experience bodily harm such as abscesses, require hospitalization, or face fatal overdose.

From providing sterile syringes to offering Narcan, Next Distro delivery services, the Never Use Alone hotline, access to recovery coaches and more, syringe access centers and harm reduction initiatives represent our community's best approach to managing substance use and limiting overdose. By meeting individuals where they are, providing requested resources, and embracing holistic support rather than stigmatizing their existence, we can make actionable change in the lives of people who use drugs ☀️

redproject.org | 616.456.9063

Our Westside GR (Stocking and Fifth) Mobile Health Unit will be cancelled this evening; very sorry to all participants about any inconvenience, and thank you for your continued support!

We are cancelling our Drug Checking services today, but will be operating this service again tomorrow!

Our offices are still open and running as normal, other than drug checking. We still have both Fentanyl and Xylazine test strips, sterile syringes, sharps containers - and Narcan to prevent overdoses and infection in the meantime!

Thank you for your patience. If you have questions about our drug checking service, or any of our other programs like Recovery Coaching or HIV/Hepatitis C testing, please call or visit:

616.456.9063 | redproject.org

Did you know? Narcan isn't just for humans! Naloxone works to reverse opioid overdoses in cats and dogs too 🐾

Whether it's your furry friend, a loved one, or a neighbor - Naloxone can save lives.

Red Project offers FREE nasal Narcan and intramuscular Naloxone kits at our Muskegon and Grand Rapids offices. Plus, we've placed multiple free Narcan vending machines across West Michigan - DM us or call our office at the number below to find the closest one to you!

Let's all be prepared to respond to an overdose and save a life. Whether it's a loved one, a community member, or even a furry friend.

redproject.org | 616.456.9063

About 1 in 7 people living with HIV don't know they're positive. If you aren't sure of your status, it's time to get tested.

Red Project offers free and confidential HIV and Hepatitis C testing Mondays and Thursdays in our Grand Rapids office from 10am-4pm every week. Our tests only take about 20 minutes to show a result, meaning you'll walk out with answers.

For more information about HIV testing, how to get connected to the HIV preventative medication PrEP, or questions about our many other programs please visit or call:

redproject.org | 616.456.9063

PrEP is a medication highly effective in preventing HIV, and it works for every gender!

Whether utilizing the daily pill or bi-monthly injection, PrEP doesn't impact hormone levels in individuals utilizing HRT, nor does HRT impact the levels of PrEP in the body. That means regardless of your journey, you can be prepped along the way ☀

The first step in starting your PrEP journey is to get tested for HIV. Here at Red Project we offer free and confidential HIV testing sessions that only take about 20 minutes to get results. With PrEP navigators right here at the office, we can get you on your way towards freedom from HIV worry.

To secure an appointment and get tested, please call or visit:

616.456.9063 | redproject.org

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It's recommended to get tested for Hepatitis C at least once in your adult life, and at least once per year if you are someone who uses injection drugs. Substance use via injection is currently the leading cause of Hepatitis C transmission in the United States.

At Red Project, along with our HIV testing, we offer free and confidential Hepatitis C testing sessions. Results only take about 20 minutes, and in 2024 Hepatitis C is more easily curable than ever.

Get tested. Get treated. Get cured!

We're offering free and confidential HIV and Hepatitis C testing today from 10am-4pm in our Grand Rapids office, give us a visit to learn more about how to maintain your s*xual health and to know your status with certainty ☀

For more information about the services Red Project offers or to secure a free and confidential HIV/Hepatitis C testing session please visit or call:

redproject.org | 616.456.9063

*xualhealth

EDIT: Oops! - We’re out of a few items and need to run back to the office, we will be back!

Our Westside GR (Stocking and Fifth) Mobile Health Unit will be cancelled next week, so if you are someone that frequents this service point, stop on by today to stock up on resources!

We will be out there from 5pm-7pm to serve you all! We will post again next week regarding this cancellation in service ☀

Thank you for your patience!

redproject.org | 616.456.9063

Forcing individuals into drug treatment often overlooks the complexities of substance use and the individual's unique circumstances. Mandated treatment doesn't address the underlying issues that lead to substance use in the first place.

Chaotic substance use is often a symptom of deeper problems like trauma, untreated mental health issues, or socio-economic challenges - which must be addressed alongside substance use itself.

Harm reduction acknowledges that people struggling with their use need support, not to be forced into treatment. It focuses on minimizing the potential negative outcomes of drug use while respecting a person’s autonomy and self-efficacy.

By prioritizing health and safety, harm reduction strategies and organizations like Red Project create an environment where individuals can make informed choices about their drug use without fear of judgment or punishment. Promoting dignity, autonomy, and empowerment, which are all essential for long-term stability and health.

To learn more about Narcan access, HIV testing, recovery coaching or any of the other programs and services we offer please contact or visit:

616.456.9063 | redproject.org