Full Article by Leah Willingham | AP News
In a powerful public hearing covered by the Associated Press, community voices clashed over a proposal to launch a new syringe service program at the Women’s Health Center of West Virginia. Located on Charleston’s West Side — the area hardest hit by the overdose crisis — the center seeks to expand its harm reduction services to meet urgent community needs.
“This work is too important and too vital to be guided by fear or disdain or past grudges,” said Iris Sidikman, Harm Reduction Coordinator for the clinic.
While evidence shows syringe services curb HIV, hepatitis C, and overdose deaths, the debate highlighted continuing stigma. Some residents expressed concerns about enabling drug use and property values. Bobbi Holland, a local resident, argued: “What they are doing is illegal. They should be treated as criminals, not victims.”
But others shared deeply personal stories of survival.
Danni Dineen, a recovering heroin user and City of Charleston Quick Response Team coordinator, said: “A syringe service program personally saved my life. I want the folks that I serve here in Charleston to have that same opportunity.”
The proposal now heads to the Charleston City Council for a vote on August 7. If approved, it would then move to the Kanawha County Commission for final authorization.
