Washington Heights CORNER Project, Inc.

Overview

The Washington Heights CORNER Project, Inc. (EIN: 208672015) is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the health and quality of life of individuals who use drugs. The organization operates under the mission to address the complex needs of this population by overcoming stigma and systemic barriers to care.

Mission and Services

Washington Heights CORNER Project provides a range of services, including syringe distribution, sexual health services, overdose prevention, health services, and care coordination. These programs focus on enhancing the well-being of people who engage in drug use, ensuring they have access to necessary medical and social support.

Overdose Prevention Centers

One of the significant initiatives of the organization is its role as OnPoint NYC, which made history by opening the first two government-sanctioned Overdose Prevention Centers (OPCs) in the United States, located in East Harlem and Washington Heights. These centers offer a safe environment where individuals can use drugs under professional supervision, reducing overdose risks and providing pathways to drug treatment and other health services. The operations of these OPCs involve providing clean equipment, medical monitoring, and wraparound social services.

Funding and Partnerships

The organization has received support from various funders, including a notable grant from the New York Health Foundation. This funding has been instrumental in sustaining the OPCs and advocating for policy changes to solidify the future of such centers across the country.

Leadership

The organization is governed by a board of directors, which includes professionals from diverse backgrounds in healthcare and social services. This diverse leadership helps steer the organization's strategic direction and community engagement.

Impact

By pioneering the establishment of OPCs in the U.S., the Washington Heights CORNER Project has been at the forefront of addressing the opioid epidemic and overdose crisis. Its model serves as a groundwork for potential replication by other community organizations seeking to implement similar programs. The organization's work has also contributed to the broader conversation about the need for legal and policy reforms to support harm reduction strategies in the United States.