Keeping Streets Clean and Engaging our Neighbors

At OnPoint NYC, one of our major public health priorities is keeping our community safe. For our neighbors, there’s the risk of accidental injury while spending time in public spaces like parks or sidewalks, where syringes and other materials used for drug administration may be discarded. 

As Jason Beltre, who oversees OnPoint NYC’s Outreach and Public Safety Teams, says, “Improperly discarded syringes and hazardous waste pose significant risks to public health and safety. Needle litter increases the risk of needlestick injuries, which can lead to the transmission of bloodborne infections like HIV and Hepatitis C. This waste, if left unaddressed, creates unsafe environments for residents, particularly children and community workers, and contributes to the stigma surrounding drug use.”

To reduce these risks, OnPoint NYC’s Outreach and Public Safety Teams (OPST) distributes safer use supplies, educates community members and people who inject drugs on proper disposal practices, and actively cleans up syringe litter and hazardous waste in East Harlem, Washington Heights, and the Bronx. 

The OPST also distributes clothing and food, and responds to opioid and other drug-related emergencies. In doing so, they provide life-saving, life-altering services to individuals who are most entrenched in street life and resistant to traditional forms of assistance.

Report Waste for Cleanup with OnPoint NYC’s Public Safety Hotline

This vital resource allows residents in Upper Manhattan and the Bronx to report syringe litter and hazardous waste for cleanup. The Outreach and Public Safety Team responds promptly - addressing waste and reducing public health impact.

“By offering these tools and services, OnPoint reduces the risk of needlestick injuries, supports safer environments, and reinforces harm reduction principles,” says Jason. This work not only reinforces OnPoint NYC’s commitment to promoting safety and cleanliness, but fosters trust and builds a bridge between OnPoint NYC and the greater community – helping create a more livable and welcoming environment for everyone in the neighborhood.

As Jason explains, OnPoint NYC not only services community syringe drop kiosks (in collaboration with the NYC Parks Department and Department of Health), but provides direct outreach in high-impact areas. “The team mobilizes based on community needs,” Jason explains. “Regular patrols, community input, and strategic partnerships guide where OPST focuses its efforts to maintain cleaner, safer public spaces.”

By offering these tools and services, OnPoint reduces the risk of needlestick injuries, supports safer environments, and reinforces harm reduction principles." - Jason Beltre, Director of Community Initiatives and Impact

In addition to cleaning up waste, The Outreach and Public Safety team works to engage people who use drugs in the community – prioritizing their health, dignity, and safety while educating them on safer disposal options and more.

“Outreach by OPST connects community members to other OnPoint services, such as our overdose prevention centers, clinical care, case management, our drop-in centers where participants can get a hot meal and shower, mental health support, and other services,” says Jason. “This integrated approach not only cleans public spaces but also provides opportunities to build trust, reduce stigma, and support community wellbeing.”

Jason sees the impact of OnPoint’s outreach and public safety work in the neighborhoods we serve each day. “This work goes beyond waste removal—it creates opportunities to connect individuals to life-saving resources, safer use supplies, and holistic support services,” he shares. “By reducing stigma and fostering healthier public spaces, OnPoint NYC ensures its harm reduction approach benefits everyone in the community.”

OnPoint NYC’s Safe Needle Disposal Tips

1.

Never recap, bend, or break used syringes.

2.

Place syringes in a puncture-proof container such as a designated sharps disposal box. Do not dispose of needles in regular trash or recycling bins.

3.

Use community drop boxes or kiosks where available, like those maintained by OnPoint NYC.

4.

Report syringe litter to OnPoint NYC’s Public Safety Hotline to ensure safe cleanup and disposal.

Our East Harlem location will be closing early at 8:30pm on Wed 5/1 and Fri 5/3. Our Washington Heights location will be open on our regular schedule.

No One Has To Die of An Overdose.

Through our compassionate and effective approach, we’ve saved over 1,000 lives. With your support, we can save many more.