A Safe Haven for Drug Users in South America’s First Supervised Site

In Bogotá, Colombia, a unique supervised drug consumption site provides a safe space for people to inject substances under professional oversight. The Cambie initiative reduces overdoses, prevents disease transmission, and offers critical support to its vulnerable users.

A Groundbreaking Initiative in Bogotá

Inside a modest room in Bogotá, individuals struggling with drug dependence find solace and safety. Known as Proyecto Cambie, this initiative operates South America’s first supervised consumption site, offering not just clean needles but a lifeline to those in need.

The program is part of Acción Técnica Social (ATS), a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating public policies, social programs, and harm-reduction strategies for drug use. Since opening in 2023, the facility has supported 78 people, many of whom are homeless, by providing clean materials, supervision, food, hygiene resources, and even a place to sleep.

When users arrive at the site, they write down their names. They also list the substances they carry and count the used syringes they return. Inside, users sit at stations. These stations have mirrors, metal trays, and proper disposal containers. The environment is spotless and safe for drug use. It is genuinely hygienic.

“We’ve distributed over 40,000 syringes and collected approximately 15,000 used ones,” said Daniel Rojas, the program’s general coordinator. For Rojas, the initiative’s most outstanding achievement is clear: “In 15 or 16 months, we’ve attended to 14 overdoses—all heroin-related—and saved every life.”

Saving Lives and Reducing Harm

The core mission of Cambie is to minimize the harm associated with drug use. Sterile equipment and proper disposal practices prevent the spread of diseases like HIV and hepatitis. By offering a supervised environment, the project reduces public drug use and the associated risks of exposed syringes in public spaces.

To date, the facility has facilitated 2,300 supervised injections, each one reducing the likelihood of a fatal overdose. The staff has also administered 142 doses of naloxone, a life-saving medication that reverses opioid overdoses.

At Cambie, it’s not just about the numbers. It’s about creating a community of care and kindness. Beatriz García, a nurse at Cambie, embodies this spirit. She not only ensures the safety of users during emergencies but also cooks meals that bring people together. “I cook every Friday, and they love it. They even ask for my food specifically,” García said while carrying a large pot of rice and beans. This sense of community and shared experiences is what makes Cambie more than just a supervised consumption site.

The initiative helps with a focus on the community. It prevents overdoses and reduces public drug use. Cambie improves the lives of its users and enhances the safety and cleanliness of Bogotá’s streets.

The Human Side of Supervised Consumptioncon

Among Cambie’s staff is Lorena, a peer worker who supervises users as they inject substances. Her role involves much more than handing out syringes; she ensures users stay safe, helps prevent overdoses, and provides emotional support.

Lorena is also a heroin user herself. Every morning before work, she injects heroin—a ritual that she says doesn’t interfere with her ability to fulfill her responsibilities. “I disinfect my station and get to work immediately,” she explained.

Despite the stigma surrounding drug use, Lorena leads a functional life. She has her apartment and dedicates her days to helping others like her. Her mother used to worry about her drug use. Now, she supports her work. Her mother understands that supervised consumption offers a very safe alternative. The emotional toll of her job is significant. Lorena often hears personal stories from users. These stories can be weighty. Cambie helps its staff by providing psychological support. They allow workers to deal with the harrowing experiences they face every day.

A Model for Harm Reduction in South America

Cambie is more than a safe place for drug use. It demonstrates the power of harm-reduction strategies. The program’s success could probably inspire other cities in South America and beyond. It shows how caring policies save lives, and these methods really improve public health.

Harm reduction often receives criticism. Some people believe it invites more drug use. However, the evidence is clear. Overdoses drop. Disease spread decreases, and streets improve.

Cambie merges supervised drug use with resources and mental support. This method provides a respectful alternative to strict drug policies. It cares for both users and the whole community. The initiative underlines the importance of empathy and creativity. Creative solutions are very crucial for addressing the global drug crisis. Lorena insists, “This work isn’t just about giving needles. It’s really about saving lives.” It also restores a sense of humanity to people.

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Proyecto Cambie’s effect in Bogotá is obvious. It focuses on safety, dignity, and reducing harm. The program provides help to those most at risk. Its clever work reminds us that even with challenging problems, kindness, and compassion lead to real change.