Syringe Services Program (SSP)
Syringe Services Programs (SSPs) are evidence-based and endorsed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Fargo Cass Public Health’s comprehensive SSP program helps prevent the transmission of HIV and hepatitis C through education, rapid testing and the availability of safer-use supplies. In addition, staff connect participants to substance use disorder (SUD) treatment, healthcare and other services. Participants are also provided sharps containers, overdose prevention and response education, naloxone and wound care supplies. Safer sex supplies and STI prevention education are also available.
What are positive outcomes?
Since the FCPH SSP opened in April 2018, cases of hepatitis C in Cass County have declined by 69%, through 2025.
- Cost savings: $1 spent on SSP = $7.58 saved
- Nationally, SSPs are associated with an estimated 50% reduction in HIV and hepatitis C.
- In 2025, 569 opioid overdose reversals were reported by SSP participants, using SSP-supplied naloxone.
- Persons who use SSPs are 5X more likely to enter substance use disorder treatment and 3X more likely to stop using drugs.
How is it funded?
Staff costs and general supplies are funded through the State Opioid Response (SOR) grant from North Dakota Health & Human Services (ND HHS) Behavioral Health Division.
HIV/Hepatitis C testing & safer sex supplies are funded through the Counseling, Testing & Referral grant from ND HHS.
Narcan is funded through the ND HHS Behavioral Health Division.
Safer use supplies are funded through local Opioid Settlement Funds from pharmaceutical companies & distributors.
The City of Fargo's General Fund does NOT cover costs associated with the SSP.
How does it work?
Trust is built through meaningful and consistent engagement between staff and participants. Trust is critical and opens the door to conversations and action regarding safer use, overdose prevention, testing and treatment.
Participants of the SSP meet with a Harm Reduction Specialist at each visit. This practice ensures consistent reinforcement of safer use practices, along with referrals to treatment, medical care, or other necessary and relevant resources. During encounters with participants, staff provide instruction and education on safe syringe disposal practices. Participants are provided with proper syringe disposal containers in four different sizes.
SSP participants receive syringes and other safer-use supplies, using a needs-based model, as supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and North Dakota Health & Human Services. Needs based is best practice, and the only model associated with a 50% reduction in new HIV and hepatitis C transmissions.
The syringes distributed through our SSP are a standard insulin syringe. They are commonly sold online and in pharmacies and are given out at most SSPs. They are not identified with markings specific to Fargo Cass Public Health.
To address overdose prevention, participants have access to naloxone, education and training. To reduce transmission of STIs, safer sex supplies and education are offered.
What about treatment?
Staff consistently provide referrals to a wealth of community services, including SUD treatment. SUD vouchers to assist with treatment are currently available through North Dakota Health & Human Services (NDHHS) for those who are ready to take that step. For those who are not, staff provide ongoing guidance, encouragement and education on reducing harms associated with drug use.
Where is the SSP located?
The SSP is located in the Harm Reduction Center, 510 5th Street North, Fargo.
Is the SSP moving to the new Resource & Recovery Center?
No, the SSP is not moving to the new Resource & Recovery Center. SSP operations will continue to take place at the Harm Reduction Center.