City of Tacoma Expands Efforts to Address Homelessness With New Street Medicine Program
The City of Tacoma has announced the launch of a Street Medicine Pilot Program designed to enhance healthcare access for individuals experiencing homelessness. Funded by a $1 million grant from the Washington State Health Care Authority, this initiative positions Tacoma among several jurisdictions receiving similar funding to tackle this pressing issue. Mayor Victoria Woodards stated that the program is not just about treating illnesses but also about building trust and providing a dignified pathway to better living conditions. The Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department will spearhead the program, deploying specially trained teams of medical and behavioral health professionals directly to encampments and other unsheltered locations. These teams will provide comprehensive care tailored to the unique needs of individuals, helping to stabilize their health and potentially reduce burdens on local hospitals and law enforcement.
Additionally, the program aims to foster collaboration among community stakeholders to ensure wraparound services for those in need. By addressing immediate healthcare needs and establishing lasting relationships, Tacoma hopes to improve the overall well-being of its unhoused residents. This initiative is part of a larger strategy that includes increased investments in affordable housing and supportive services to combat homelessness effectively.