Introduction

Ashokta Punarbashan Sangstha (APOSH) emerged as a Self-Help Group of ex-drug users in Rajshahi in 1999. Since 2000, APOSH has been providing detoxification, treatment, and rehabilitation services, serving approximately 5,250 helpless and needy clients during this period.

In 2003, APOSH began working with CARE Bangladesh under a DFID-funded HIV program. In addition, APOSH has undertaken various philanthropic activities in the local community, particularly raising awareness about preventing drug dependency.

In 2004, APOSH provided detoxification services for drug users under the HAPP Projects. In 2006, CARE Bangladesh extended its partnership with APOSH to implement the UNDOC Project.

Over the years, APOSH has gained programmatic and institutional experience in HIV prevention. APOSH also became involved in outreach and advocacy as part of an IDU (Injecting Drug Users) program in the north-western region of Bangladesh.

It first initiated harm reduction services under the GFATM project by establishing Drop-In Centres (DICs) in high-risk zones across north-western districts of Bangladesh.

Although APOSH was new to harm reduction services for the most at-risk populations, its sincere and dedicated team has contributed significantly to its success in this area.

Mission
To empower people who use drugs and marginalized populations through meaningful engagement, advocacy, essential service delivery, capacity building, and networking opportunities, ensuring their health, rights, and wellbeing.

Vision
A society where people who use drugs and other marginalized populations are treated with dignity and respect, free from prejudice, and have access to evidence-based, effective care and support whenever needed.

Working Area
APOSH has been rendering its services in 3 districts and 5 Upazilas of Bangladesh. The working areas of APOSH are Rajshahi, Dinajpur, and Chapai Nawabganj.

Major Areas of Intervention
• HIV/AIDS Prevention
• Treatment of Drug Dependency
• Detoxification
• Rehabilitation
• Prevention of STI/STD
• Community Awareness
• Advocacy and Networking
• IGA Activities
• Rehabilitation Training

Development Partners/Organizations
• CARE Bangladesh
• Mokta Akash Bangladesh (MAB)
• PROYAS Manobik Unnayan Society
• Khulna Nari Mukti Sangsha (KNMS)
• Light House
• Unnayan Sohoyogee Sangtha (USS)
• Population Services and Training Center (PSTC)

Legal Identity
• Department of Social Services
• Department of Narcotics Control for Drug Treatment Centre
• NGO Affairs Bureau
• Department of Youth Development
• Department of Narcotics Control for Awareness

Donors/Development Contributors
• The Global Fund
• Department of International Development (DFID)
• United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNDOC)
• United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF)
• HOPE, UK.