Faith in Harm Reduction in Washington Square Park

Faith in Harm Reduction was founded in 2023. Although the organization is new, its leaders have more than twenty years of experience in harm reduction related to drug use. It is the only national initiative connecting faith communities with people who use drugs, building collaborations across health, justice, and spiritual sectors.

During an outreach in Washington Square Park, the group gave away food, clothing, hygiene items, and harm reduction kits for safer drug use and overdose prevention. They also offered education, resources, and spiritual care, creating a space of dignity and community for people often excluded and stigmatized.

Rev. Erica Poellot, Chaplain & Executive Director, explained: “We want people who use drugs to know they are beloved, valuable, and that their lives matter. This is not a drug issue but one of poverty, housing, healthcare, and trauma.”

She added that many who come to the park are looking not only for resources but also for connection. One man told her he visits because at home he has no one to eat with, and here he finds friends and purpose.