About Us

Mainline, a program of the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre, is a health promotion organization dedicated to supporting people who use drugs through harm reduction programs. Our mission is to reduce acquisition and transmission of HIV, Hepatitis B & C, to increase awareness of health and social issues facing PWUD, and to help current and former PWUD through education, support and empowerment.

What We Offer

  • Needles, syringes, sterile water, cookers, filters, ties, vitamin C, condoms, stems, bubble pipes, matches.
  • Safe disposal of used needles.
  • Fentanyl and benzodiazepine test strips, Naloxone kits.
  • Awareness and education related to harm reduction, particularly safer injection and safer practices.
  • Peer support, including assistance with exploring and accessing detox, treatment, methadone.
  • Assistance in locating and navigating resources for medical, legal, social services, employment and housing issues.
  • Over the counter snacks as available.
  • Inform clients of the nature of the relationship with them as well as the limitations of that relationship.
  • Protect the integrity and welfare of the clients at all times by not engaging in spreading gossip.
  • Recognize that dual or multiple relationships may increase the risk of harm to the clients and may impair professional judgment.

We Believe

  • That each client is unique, valuable and vital in contributing to our program.
  • Through the commitment, respect and dedication of our clients, we are able to maintain our mission and uphold our values.
  • That clients deserve our respect.
  • That by helping clients, we help ourselves. To own our past directs the future relationships with clients and among staff.
  • That clients should be supported even if they make choices we wouldn’t make personally. This is how we describe our organization and programs as client-centered.
  • That “no questions asked” creates a comfortable, safe and friendly environment for staff and clients. This will promote an atmosphere of trust. Through this process we contribute to meaningful and trusting relationships.
  • That people who use drugs or engage in other forms of risk-taking behaviours are capable of change. We support our community members in those efforts to make that change.
  • That support and education is very important for people engaging in and affected by risky behaviours.

Our Commitment

  • The Code of Conduct is our commitment to you as it outlines expectations for ethical and professional conduct for Mainline Needle Exchange staff. It also provides a practical guide for professional behaviours.
  • Regardless of levels of experience or job title, staff has an obligation to the Mainline Needle Exchange program, the clients, and to each other to do their job in a professional manner and to follow this Code of Conduct.
  • The Code of Conduct outlines expectations of behaviour based on Mainline’s mission and values. Central to this code is the right of clients to be respected by Mainline staff and to have their confidentiality protected by staff members at all times and under all circumstances.
  • Mainline recognizes that staff may have previous relationships with clients and that staff may be working with two clients at the same time that have a relationship to one another. In order to maintain the integrity of the program and the respect of all staff, employees must adhere to the pledge of confidentiality at all times.

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