Women who use drugs, as well as sex workers, and women from low-income background make up the majority of these visitors, although the centre is specifically targeted for women who use/inject drugs, especially in light of the limited availability of health services in the region. Women can come to the centre anytime it is open, obtain any available services they need for free, and leave as they wish.
“If you are a person who injects drugs, you can simply go to the counter and get needles. If you are not using and just want condoms, you just go and get the condoms from the counter. If you feel like taking a rest for a while [due to withdrawal], we have pain management services as well.” – Thinzar Tun
More than just a drop-in centre
Hpakant is a township in Kachin State whose majority migrant population relies heavily on jade and gold mining. “It’s not that easy to get jobs, even for the graduates,” said Ms. Tun as she explained why prostitution and illicit drug use flourish, and why they are often associated with risky behaviours due to the lack of public services in the area.
Socioeconomic hardship is a crucial factor which inspired the development of another unique programme at the centre. For women who face difficulties making ends meet, this DIC offers daily paid jobs for 20 women, ranging from packing paraphernalia packages for AHRN Needle Syringe Program to cleaning.
Mothers are also free to bring their children who can play at the back of the building. If needed, women can even do their laundry, take a shower, and enjoy haircutting services at the centre. As summarised by Ms. Tun, “at the end of the day, you have some income, you have your clothes washed, you could take care of your kids, and you are welcome to join the centre’s daily movie and tea sessions.”
“I always feel something when I enter [the centre]. There are interactions, you know,” and “there is a sense of belonging, sense of ownership,” said Ms. Tun when asked about the significance of this DIC.