Munson Healthcare’s $300,000 Donation for the Street Medicine Program: A Collaboration with Goodwill Northern Michigan to Address Homelessness in Traverse City

In July 2022, Munson Healthcare and Traverse Health Clinic launched a collaboration with Goodwill Northern Michigan’s Street Outreach team to address the critical need for medical care among individuals experiencing homelessness in the region. The Street Medicine Program brings a fully-equipped hospital exam room in a box truck to various locations such as homeless shelters and encampments.

Munson Healthcare has announced a donation of $300,000 over the next two years to support the expansion of this program. The funds will be used to enhance access to care for homeless patients by completing accessibility upgrades to Traverse Health Clinic’s mobile medical unit, hiring a full-time community coordinator, and providing comprehensive wraparound services.

The Street Medicine Program has already served over 1,000 individuals since its launch in 2022. According to Ed Ness, president and CEO of Munson Healthcare, individuals experiencing homelessness are highly susceptible to significant illness and chronic health conditions. Munson Healthcare is committed to providing access to necessary care, including preventative services, to address the growing number of homeless individuals in the community.

Traverse Health Clinic CEO Casey Kandow expressed gratitude for Munson Healthcare’s support and emphasized the importance of partnerships in providing critical healthcare services to the unhoused population. With this donation, the program aims to provide even more comprehensive medical care and support for those who need it most.