'A public health issue': Sanford volunteers call for action after collecting 1K syringes from park
Used Syringes Discovered in Portland’s Gowen Park Prompt Call for Better Disposal Options
Portland, Maine – During a volunteer cleanup in Gowen Park, organizers discovered over 1,000 syringes scattered across the green space, prompting local residents to demand additional safe‑disposal alternatives for used needles.
The cleanup, part of a community effort to keep Portland’s parks tidy, was led by the Portland Parks & Recreation Department in partnership with the Maine Safe Injection Network. When volunteers sifted through piles of litter near the park’s playground, they uncovered a large quantity of used syringes, some still containing residual fluid.
“It’s alarming to see that many people are leaving needles out in public areas,” said volunteer coordinator Marissa Lentz. “We need a reliable way for folks to dispose of these safely without risking injury to kids or the public.”
Community members gathered at a meeting held at the Portland Community Center last week to discuss the findings and potential solutions. Attendees included representatives from local health clinics, the Maine Department of Health and Human Services, and residents from nearby neighborhoods.
The Maine Department of Health and Human Services has indicated that the state already operates a limited network of syringe exchange programs in larger cities, but these services are not widely available in Portland or across the state. Some residents have suggested expanding the current system to include additional drop‑off points, such as pharmacies, hospitals, and community centers.
“The presence of syringes in public spaces is a public health concern,” said Dr. Jonathan Miller, a public health specialist with the state department. “Increasing the number of safe disposal sites and raising public awareness are critical steps to reduce the risks of accidental needle sticks and the spread of bloodborne diseases.”
Local officials are reviewing the situation and exploring partnership opportunities with the Maine Safe Injection Network, which has previously distributed sterile needles and education materials to the community.
“We’re committed to protecting our residents, especially the children who play in parks,” said Portland City Councilmember Angela Kim. “We’ll work with state and local agencies to expand safe disposal options and ensure that all residents have easy access to them.”
The next steps involve coordinating with health departments and community groups to identify additional drop‑off locations, create a public awareness campaign, and secure funding for the expansion. Meanwhile, volunteers plan to return to Gowen Park for a follow‑up clean‑up to remove the remaining syringes and assess whether new disposal sites have been installed.
The discovery has underscored the urgency of providing accessible, safe syringe disposal throughout Maine, and it has galvanized community action to address a growing public health concern.
