As the spring melt begins, the city often sees an increase in debris, highlighting the importance of ongoing needle mitigation efforts to maintain the safety and cleanliness of public spaces. Mobile Outreach, a division of the Grande Prairie Police Service, conducts regular sweeps throughout the city, focusing on high-traffic areas such as parks, the downtown core, and other spots where debris tends to accumulate.
The Government of Alberta grant-funded position of Needle Mitigation Worker plays a key role in addressing and removing discarded needles and other drug-related debris. The City of Grande Prairie is committed to safety for all its residents and partnering with the province to create pathways for recovery for individuals suffering from addiction.
The Needle Mitigation Worker collaborates closely with local businesses and community members to ensure public spaces are kept safe. This worker is also available to respond to direct calls from residents and businesses for needle removal or to perform requested sweeps at specific locations.
"Being situated on the banks of Muskoseepi Park, we regularly have needle debris on location which is a source of concern for our organization," says Grande Prairie & District Golden Age Centre Office Manager Elaine Jobin. "We feel safer knowing that that the needle mitigation worker is regularly checking the premises, and they are only a phone call away when we spot something of concern. We’ve even had them in our centre, educating our members about the do’s and don'ts. It's an invaluable service."
Operating from 12 to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday, the Needle Mitigation Worker is part of a larger Mobile Outreach Team, which operates from 6 a.m. to midnight daily to accommodate additional cleanup requests and maintain a clean, safe environment for the community.
To report issues or request a cleanup, residents can call 780-830-7094, email mobileoutreach@gppolice.com, or dial 311.
