In the birthplace of Medical Marijuana the Federal Government continues the misbegotten war on drugs in dramatic fashion.

Issuing letters through the U.S. Attorney’s office and signed by U.S. Attorney Melinda Haag, these letters threatened landlords with the seizure of rent and forfeiture of property; Medical Cannabis Dispensaries (MCD) in San Francisco!

Not all MCDs in the City by the Bay are closing to this, the latest threat to patients and their rights.  HopeNet Co-Op of Northern California is still open, with owners Cathy and Steve Smith continuing to help patients find medicine and services through the Compassionate Use Act.

Treating Medical Patients
Offering patients a safe and secure environment to access medical marijuana, HopeNet continues to help its members with expertise in their medication and advice to stay in compliance with local and state laws.  Every patient is treated equally and has the opportunity to expand their knowledge with the help of HopeNet’s staff to better understand and treat their illness.

Cannabis Treatments and Availability
There are a variety of forms which medical marijuana can take.  From trimmed buds to various confectioneries (fondly referred to as “edibles” in-house), and even capsules and drinks (and the odd pack of ramen noodles), patients can find whatever delivery system works best for them to relieve pain or better treat the symptoms of their ailments.  A great deal of effort comes into play with many of these forms of medication, with San Francisco regulations overseeing the safe storage and distribution of edibles in particular through the use of highly visible labeling and safe containers.

Trial By Fire
HopeNet has built a reputation in San Francisco for creating and fostering a co-op model that other MCDs and organizations can strive for.  Having survived a raid in 2005 by the DEA through perseverance, the dedication of their patients, and support from local government, Cathy and Steve Smith proudly continue to operate in the heart of the SOMA.  With awards from the National Association of Professional Women and Senator Carole Migden, letters of support from then-San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom and the San Francisco City Supervisors, and the outpouring of support from patients in the aftermath of the DEAs actions, the HopeNet Co-Op survived and continues to help the community.  With our down-to-earth, mom and pop-style of care and service, we will continue to do what we can to protect our members and offer a safe haven for patients.