Updated October 5, 2012
Needle Exchange Program Toll Free Number: 1 (888) 308-1110
The Needle Exchange Program is a one-for-one syringe exchange program. We provide new needles in exchange for old needles. We also provide mobile HIV testing, safe disposal of used needles, condoms, and information and referrals for HIV and substance abuse treatment services.
In 2006, syringe exchange was made legal in California. The Needle Exchange Program has been approved by the Santa Clara Board of Supervisors, as permitted by HS Code 11364.7. While drug use is not legal, this program is based on a harm reduction model that works to control the spread of blood borne viruses. The bill was passed to stop the spread of HIV and Heapatitis C infection in drug users.
Clients can enroll in the program by filling out an anonymous one page form. Clients will recieve a membership card that they will need to bring every time they come to the Needle Exchange Program. Clietn will be able to exchange needles the same day they join.
For more information, please call the Needle Exchange Program at
1 (888) 308-1110.
Program Times and Locations
Download flyer
Monday
1:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Knox Ave site: 1 block west of King Road on Story Road, turn right at Knox Avenue
Tuesday
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
2nd St & 280 site: Under the overpass, between 1st & 2nd Street
5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Crane Center site: 976 Lenzen Avenue, between Stockton & The Alameda / located in the rear
Thursday
9:00 am - 11:00 am
Alexian site: Jose Figueres Avenue @ Alexian Regional Medical Center
Friday
9:30 am - 10:30 am
San Martin site: Monterey Road & Highland; San Martin
1:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Little Orchard site: Site is located on Little Orchard midway between Curtner & San Jose Avenue.
No exchange services: Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday, & County Holidays
What to Expect at the Locations
We will not ask clients for their name or contact information.
Clients must bring their sharps contaner of used needles to the exchange site.
If the needles are not returned in a sharps container, we will provide the client with one.
For the safety of the staff, clients will be asked to put used needles into a sharps container for disposal.
Clients will recieve new needles, a sharps container, condoms, hygiene kits, and other safer injection supplies as needed.
Free rapid HIV tests are available and encouraged at the time of first visit.
Safe Injection Tips
Always use a new needle, filter, cooker, and sterile or boiled drinking water every time you inject.
Never share needles, filters, cookers or other equipment.
Before injecting, wash your hands and clean your skin with an alcohol swab or at least soap and water.
Choose different areas on your body when injecting to reduce damage to vein and skin tissue.
Do not recap your needle.
Put used needles and cookers into a sharps container.
Bring your used needles to one of our needle exchange sites.