MATTERS Network

12/23/2025

Happy Holidays from MATTERS!

We're thankful for our incredible staff, partners, and community stakeholders who work to make our mission achievable.

If you or someone you know needs support, you're not alone. We're here for you this holiday season and always.

Learn more or get connected at mattersnetwork.org

12/22/2025

Thank you to Congressman Paul Tonko for his kind introduction of our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Joshua Lynch, as the keynote speaker at the Beyond Addiction Symposium.

We are grateful for his recognition of how MATTERS has transformed linkage to addiction care across New York State, as well as his acknowledgement of Dr. Lynch's leadership and his work championing expanded access to treatment.

Thank you, Congressman Tonko, for your continued support.

To learn more about how MATTERS improves access to care, visit mattersnetwork.org

Video credit: Rep Tonko’s Office

12/19/2025

Even when the weather keeps you home, your recovery doesn’t have to wait.

Start treatment and get supportive services for opioid use disorder through telemedicine — wherever you feel most comfortable.

Call 765-628-8377 to get started today.

MATTERS links individuals with opioid use disorder to outpatient medication for addiction treatment. Find treatment resources here!

12/18/2025

Did you know that Glens Falls, NY, has a harm reduction vending machine?

Located at Hope and Healing Recovery Center and managed by Council for Prevention, it offers free naloxone (Narcan), fentanyl test strips, and xylazine test strips to support safer substance use.

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

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

12/17/2025

Getting to an appointment shouldn't be a barrier to care.

That's why we partner with several transportation providers across New York to offer free transportation for individuals who receive a MATTERS referral.

This includes rides to and from your first few appointments, as well as to the pharmacy.

To learn more, visit:

MATTERS offers several supports to individuals referred through its rapid referral process, including medication and transportation vouchers.

12/12/2025

Understanding syringe sizes is important for safer and informed use.

This guide breaks down needle length, gauge, and syringe size to help you choose the right equipment.

For more information about our Syringe Services Program, visit https://zurl.co/HPJI7

12/09/2025

Harm Reduction Manager Shelby Arena walks through Step 2: Testing your substance 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.

12/08/2025

Legislation can shape the support and services available in our communities.

Here's what you need to know about up-and-coming bills on drug paraphernalia and the expansion of drug test strips.

These laws can help increase access to harm reduction tools and support safer substance use for people who use drugs.

For more information about your rights to carry safer substance use supplies, visit mattersnetwork.org/syringe-services.

12/05/2025

Our latest newsletter is officially out!

Stay informed with updates on our programs, services, news, and more.

Subscribe today: mattersnetwork.org/news

12/04/2025

Join us at the World AIDS Day and Ending the Epidemic Summit 2025!

Members of the MATTERS team will be tabling at the event, sharing resources, harm reduction supplies, and connecting with other organizations.

Thank you to the New York State Department of Health and AIDS Institute for having us. We look forward to seeing our partners in Albany!.

Register now: https://zurl.co/tpkKI

12/01/2025

We are very excited to introduce our new Outreach Coordinator, Mike Bernardi.

Hometown? Saranac, NY

What is your favorite aspect of the MATTERS program? The person-centered approach and the willingness to meet people where they are.

Favorite place to visit in New York State? Whiteface Mountain 🗻

11/26/2025

Did you know Long Island City, NY, has a harm reduction vending machine?

Managed by Phoenix House, it offers free naloxone, fentanyl test strips, and xylazine test strips to support safer substance use.

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