Saskatoon HIV Aboriginal Reduction of Harm Program (SHARP)

Participants in this project are Saskatoon Tribal Council, Saskatoon Health Region, University of Saskatchewan, AIDS Saskatoon and West Side Community Clinic.

A working partnership to control HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) and STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection) incidence in Saskatoon has been established.  Based on extensive community consultation, a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary drop-in center within Saskatoon's low-income neighborhoods where HIV and STI incidence is disproportionately high will be developed.  The center will include a wide range of services that are not currently offered at one location such as:

• condom distribution
• needle distribution
• education
• confidential testing
• treatment
• addictions treatment
• group behavioural modification
• spiritual counseling with Elders
• social services support

The centre will be co-managed by the Saskatoon Tribal Council and the Saskatoon Health Region.  The new centre will improve the delivery of health care services specifically to people of Aboriginal ancestry who are affected by or at risk for HIV/AIDS and STIs.