The pipe kits are being distributed by the Vancouver Area Network of Drug Users in an effort to curb the spread of hepatitis C, HIV, and other diseases by providing addicted individuals with a safe and clean way to smoke crack.

Each kit contains a glass crack pipe, mouthpiece, push stick, draw screens, matches, alcohol swabs, Vaseline, bandages, a condom, and smoking instructions.

"The public reaction has been pretty good," said Rob Morgan, president of the Vancouver Area Network of Drug Users. "There is definitely a need out there for this, and we're just getting started."

Although the network has asked the Vancouver Coastal Health Authority to provide funding for the program, the agency has declined to do so until a study on the giveaway has been completed. Government funding has been given to similar programs in Ottawa and Winnipeg.

Critics of the program are against funding it with public money because they said providing crack pipes would promote illegal drug use.

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