Milan Puskar Health Right’s harm reduction initiative, the LIGHT (Living in Good Health Together) Program, marked its 10-year anniversary this August, achieving significant milestones in syringe distribution and community health. Between October 2024 and September 2025, the program distributed 235,435 syringes and collected 206,437 used needles, achieving a remarkable return rate of nearly 88%. This figure aligns closely with the program’s target of an 85% to 90% exchange rate.
Recent data highlights a surge in participation, with 1,457 total visits from 594 unique visitors. The program saw 195 new intakes from various counties, including Monongalia (110), Marion (28), Preston (26), and Harrison (19). In comparison, the previous year recorded 186,580 syringes distributed and a return rate of 79% from 545 unique visitors.
Community Engagement and Support
Laura Jones, Executive Director of Milan Puskar Health Right, recently presented these findings to the Morgantown City Council amid a request for a letter supporting the program’s continuation. Such endorsements have become essential following the passage of SB334 by the West Virginia Legislature in 2021, which requires annual letters of support for needle exchange programs.
The legislation also mandates that these programs demonstrate proof of residency and implement a one-to-one exchange of used syringes for new ones. Beyond syringe distribution, the LIGHT Program provides essential harm reduction services. Over the past year, more than 900 wound care kits were distributed, and a nurse practitioner is available weekly to assist participants with medical issues.
Testing for bloodborne illnesses, including Hepatitis C and HIV, is also a critical component of the program. Jones reported that approximately 25 people were tested for Hepatitis C, with five positive results. She emphasized the program’s role in the community, stating, “As far as we are aware, Morgantown and Mon County have not yet had an HIV case related to IV drug use.”
Challenges and Future Plans
While the program encourages treatment for substance use, Jones noted that pressuring participants into treatment is counterproductive. In the past year, 184 new intakes had previously undergone treatment, illustrating the challenges many face. “We know treatment is not a one and done. It often takes many times before people are successful,” she said. The program aims to support participants in making their own choices regarding treatment.
The decline in local overdoses since 2021 is attributed to various factors, including the distribution of over 3,000 doses of Narcan (Naloxone) through the LIGHT Program. Health Right has established itself as a national leader in the distribution of this life-saving medication, having previously provided over 22,000 doses in a two-year period.
Jones also updated the council on the program’s upcoming relocation to 10 Scott Avenue. The last requirement for this move is obtaining a behavioral health center license from the Office of Health Facilities Licensure. Jones highlighted that Health Right submitted its application in late October and is awaiting a site visit, which she hopes will take place in early December.
The continued support from both the city and county is vital for the LIGHT Program to sustain its operations and expand its reach within the community. As the program celebrates its 10-year legacy, it remains focused on providing essential services to those in need while empowering individuals on their journey to recovery.
