A new mobile outreach van will help Northwest Human Services (NWHS) in their efforts to provide health services to Salem’s unhoused and medically fragile community members. The van, which was purchased using grants funds from the City of Salem and the Willamette Health Council, features increased storage capacity for supplies, a medical exam bed and a more private space in which to provide care.

 “Our outreach team has been visiting encampments, parks and other areas of Salem where unhoused individuals congregate for years to provide onsite nursing care and offer resources. We’ve found ways to make it work in the past, but having a well-equipped vehicle to support those efforts will expand the range of care and offer a safe and clean environment in which to do that,” said Stephen Goins, Chief Operations Officer for NWHS.

The NWHS Outreach Team, which includes a rotating staff of nurses and community health workers, will use the van to travel to different sites to treat minor injuries, offer medical advice, resources and referrals, and make recommendations for follow-up care. This outreach model plays a critical role in providing health assessments and mental health assistance and referrals, which reduces overuse of emergency systems, prevents untreated conditions from worsening, and prevents avoidable and untimely deaths.

The model also provides an opportunity to connect people with other resources such as transportation options for accessing healthcare, housing and shelter contacts and help applying for the Oregon Health Plan (OHP). The NWHS Outreach Team also distributes snacks, seasonal supplies, first aid kits, hygiene kits, and clothing to the people they visit.

“It can be incredibly challenging for those living outdoors, particularly those with mobility issues and unmanaged health conditions, to connect with health care and other essential services. Having a dedicated van and staff to ensure that happens is a significant step forward in our efforts to provide health and social supports to anyone who needs it.”

The vehicle is wrapped in a Salem cityscape design, and proudly shows its local ties and commitment to community service.

About Northwest Human Services: Since 1971, NWHS has been dedicated to delivering compassionate and expert medical, dental, mental health and social supports to residents of Marion and Polk counties. The NWHS program provides optimal support to the most vulnerable members of our community, including uninsured individuals, families, the homeless, and migrant workers.

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