Nonprofit Collaboration of the Year Finalist
Outreach Community Health Centers
711 W. Capitol Dr., Milwaukee
A lack of affordable clinical and behavioral health services remains a pervasive problem in Milwaukee, particularly among the city’s homeless population. Many are unable to travel to health care facilities for treatment.
Outreach Community Health Centers has responded to the challenge in a creative way. Services are delivered directly to those in need, at shelters, encampments, meal sites, or simply on the street.
Those who are homeless often commit ordinance violations and minor crimes, including loitering, panhandling, trespassing, and public urination.
As an effort to decriminalize these infractions, PATH/Outreach supervisor Ashley Steinberg has partnered with Milwaukee Area Technical College and the Milwaukee Police Department to train law enforcement officers and first responders in crisis intervention and homeless outreach strategies, which include giving referrals and following up with individuals.
Police officer, registered nurse and paramedic Chad Stiles said this approach provides “a dignified, collaborative response where those life-saving connections to basic needs and resources can occur.”
