ABOUT MIDWEST STREET MEDICINE
Midwest Street Medicine is on a mission to close the gaps in health outcomes and mortality by providing low-barrier care that addresses people’s medical, behavioral, addiction, and social needs.
MISSION & HISTORY.
Midwest Street Medicine was founded in July 2023 as the vision of Dr. Shannon Emry, who was inspired by street medicine teams operating other states. She soon partnered with Dr. Melissa Dittberner (Dr. Mo) as cofounder, and together they assembled a diverse team of professionals from medicine, public health, recovery, and lived experience to bring compassionate, low barrier care directly to people experiencing homelessness.
Individuals experiencing homelessness often have complex social dynamics, including mental health or addiction care needs. Many individuals have significant trauma and require multi-disciplinary care. This is why peer support and social work are vital. Reducing the stigma surrounding addiction and mental health is at the forefront of our approach, and we also work closely with partner agencies who are focused on the prevention and treatment of substance use disorder and opioid use disorder.
Evidence-based, patient-centered care is vital when caring for people who are unhoused. Our team works to build a trusting rapport with individuals, including accompanying them to medical or other appointments, supporting them in their journey to recovery, and advocating for their behavioral heath and mental health needs.
HOMELESSNESS CHALLENGES.
LOCAL PARTNERS.
This work is made possible through collaboration with and support from local officials and other organizations. In addition to working with partner agencies, Midwest Street Medicine is proud to work with and learn from other street medicine teams across the globe.
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FUNDING PARTNERS.
This work is made possible through the generous support of our financial partners, whose contributions provide the foundation for our programs and services. Their investment enables us to reach underserved populations with compassionate, community-based care.
