NYC makes syringe redemption program permanent after collecting 3.5 million needles

The mayor extended the Community Syringe Redemption Program after millions of needles were removed from city parks and streets.

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The New York City Health Department has announced the permanent expansion of its Community Syringe Redemption Program after the initiative collected more than 3.5 million used syringes from streets, parks, and public spaces across the city in just 18 months.

“In just a year and a half, we have collected more than 3.5 million used needles off the streets of New York City by working with New Yorkers to help take care of their own neighborhoods,” said NYC Health Commissioner Dr. Alister F. Martin. “We are proud to continue this work. Reducing syringe litter is one small piece of an ecosystem supporting New Yorkers through harm reduction and recovery, all working to make a tangible difference in our communities.”

The Community Syringe Redemption Program started in March 2025 as a pilot program with Addiction Response Resources in accordance with local law passed by the New York City Council. The program trains New Yorkers in safe syringe collection and disposal and allows participants to exchange used syringes for 20 cents each, for up to $10 a day. Addiction Response Resources deploys a van that travels to sites across the city based on syringe litter needs, overdose rates, proximity to existing services, and input from local elected officials.

"The Community Syringe Redemption Program effectively removes from the ground at scale, engages community members in the collection efforts, and helps keep public spaces cleaner and safer for everyone," said Co-Founder & Executive Director of Addiction Response Resources Allie Hunter. "Since launching CSRP in New York City in March 2025, we have engaged thousands of New Yorkers and collected millions of syringes, an achievement that is a testament to our incredible partners, participants, and team members. We are so grateful to partner with the City to provide this vital service and look forward to continuing to build on the program's first year of success."

According to a new Health Department report, the program enrolled and trained 1,775 participants during its first year. By March 2026, those participants had collected more than 1.4 million syringes, resulting in over $292,000 in payments to New Yorkers helping clean their communities. More than 300 naloxone kits, used to reverse opioid overdoses, were also distributed through the initiative.

Health officials say the program’s impact extends beyond reducing litter. Participant feedback indicates the initiative has strengthened community responsibility, provided supplemental income for essentials such as food and household goods, and connected individuals to health and social services in a stigma-free environment. The program also promotes safer practices that help reduce the spread of infectious diseases, including HIV and hepatitis C.

The Health Department encourages anyone seeking syringe service programs or substance use support to use the NYC Health Map or contact 988 by phone, text, or chat for 24/7 assistance.

The permanent extension marks a significant milestone for a program city leaders say has improved neighborhood cleanliness, enhanced public safety, and created new pathways to health services for thousands of New Yorkers.

Residents interested in participating in the Community Syringe Redemption Program can find enrollment locations on the department’s website at nyc.gov/site/doh.