Statement From Sam Rivera In Response To Being Named To Time100’s List of the 100 Most Influential People In The World

“It’s an incredible honor to be named one of Time100’s Most Influential People of 2023. While my name is on the award, I accept this recognition in the name of the people that have advocated and worked for decades to advance the lifesaving services of harm reduction. This honor represents the growing recognition that harm reduction works.

As an Afro-Taino, loving on people and building community are core principles of healing. Overdose prevention centers are the embodiment of both.

I want to thank the dedicated OnPoint staffers who wake up every day with one mission – save lives and be a support system for people who are too often excluded from care and community. I want to thank my mother who as an emergency room nurse, taught me to love on people until they are ready to love on themselves. It was her commitment to giving care and compassion to patients – especially during the drug crisis of the 1970’s – that inspires my work to this very today.

Lastly, I accept this honor on behalf of our beautiful participants who allow us into their lives and everyday make the courageous decision to choose life.”

Read the profile on TIME.

About OnPoint NYC: In addition to supervised consumption centers in East Harlem and Washington Heights, OnPoint NYC provides wraparound services to meet its underserved participant’s comprehensive set of needs including, medical and mental health care, onsite access to Buprenorphine and other addiction treatment options, Hepatitis C and HIV testing and treatment, holistic services, hygiene and respite, food, clothing, and other critical supports.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 13, 2023
Contact: [email protected]

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