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Hacks for Pre-Service Prep in Fixed Sites

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A well-prepared site sets the tone for the day and helps everything run more smoothly. Whether it’s organising supplies, tidying the space, or checking in with the community, taking time before opening ensures that both staff and participants feel supported. The tips below offer practical ways to build routine, share responsibility, and stay connected to what your community actually needs.

  • Pack supplies in kit-making parties during open hours. If you can provide participants gift cards or other incentives, that’s ideal. Even if you can’t pay people, at least have snacks and make it a good time for everyone.
  • Make sure the site is prepped before it opens.
  • If you don’t have a janitorial service, use a chore wheel or chart to share responsibility for cleaning.
  • Rotate who sets up for site so that everyone can do it.
  • Use checklists to maintain consistency.
  • Make sure to conduct an annual survey of your participants for needs assessment. This can help you understand what folks need and where you can improve your services.
  • Make connections with your service provider allies in the community to help get the word out about new supplies or services available through your organization.
  • Utilize word-of-mouth and social media to get the word out about your services.
  • You might also think about going old-school and putting flyers in places where you think that folks who use drugs might congregate such as food distribution sites, shelters, and bars.

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