MATTERS Network

11/21/2025

You spoke, and we listened.

The MATTERS Referral Platform now offers our partners more flexibility and account management.

Explore the latest updates: mattersnetwork.org/referral-platform-online

11/20/2025

The holidays can be hard, but you don't have to go through them alone.

Visit www.mattersnetwork.org for help, resources, and support.

11/18/2025

Harm Reduction Coordinator, Mia Dickinson, walks through Step 1: preparing your drug test strip in our "How to Use Test Strips" video.

Learn how to stay safe and test before you use!

To watch the full video and order free test strips, visit mattersnetwork.org/supplies-online.

11/14/2025

Did you know the Erie County Department of Health manages a harm reduction vending machine that provides free naloxone (Narcan), fentanyl test strips, and xylazine test strips to support safer substance use and save lives?

Thank you to the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Support for your partnership and collaboration on this initiative.

To find other vending machine locations, visit www.mattersnetwork.org/vending-machines/.

11/13/2025

Our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Joshua Lynch, will be the keynote speaker at the Beyond Addiction: A Prescription for Progress Symposium on November 20th.

We are proud to see his leadership and commitment to advancing solutions and expanding access to care for individuals with opioid use disorder recognized.

Members of our outreach team, including Raven Manchester and Mike Bernardi, will be tabling at the event.

Registration link: https://zurl.co/kitVS

11/12/2025

We are now accepting applications for our spring internship program!

If you're a graduate student interested in harm reduction and public health communication, we'd love to have you on our team.

This internship includes a stipend.

Apply at: www.mattersnetwork.org/careers

11/11/2025

In Allegheny County, every connection matters.

From hospitals and first responders to community organizations, you can help bridge the gap between individuals and the care they deserve.

Join the MATTERS referral network to strengthen treatment access and create a support system for those impacted by opioid use disorder.

Learn more at: www.mattersnetwork.org

MATTERS links people with substance use disorder to outpatient treatment with a focus on rapid access to medication for addiction treatment.

11/10/2025

Part two of our three-part series, written by our Harm Reduction Manager, Shelby Arena, explores the "who" of drug checking.

Learn about the groups, communities, institutions, and individuals who use, develop, and fund drug checking initiatives to keep people safe.

Read more: mattersnetwork.org/drug-checking-part-two-who

11/07/2025

We're excited to share that Shelby Arena and Mia Dickinson have received the John Nelson Chappell Best Curriculum, Quality Improvement, and Program Abstract Award for their abstract, "Meeting People Where They Are: Implementing a Mail-Based Syringe Service Program."

Recognized for their innovation and impact in harm reduction, the MATTERS team will be presenting during the special plenary session on November 15 at 10:30 a.m. PST at the AMERSA conference.

Congratulations to Shelby and Mia on this well-deserved recognition!

11/04/2025

Need care now?

Get virtual evaluations for opioid use disorder from trusted New York providers with fewer barriers and more support.

Download the MATTERS app or call 765-628-8377 to begin.

Medication for Addiction Treatment and Electronic Referrals

11/03/2025

Order free naloxone wall boxes for your workplace, school, or community space.

Shipping and a supply of naloxone are included.

Visit: www.mattersnetwork.org/naloxone

10/31/2025

Happy Halloween! 🎃

Candy panics distract from real public health concerns (University at Albany News, 2022).

Your candy is safe, and the rumors are the real scare. Have fun tonight!