SPOKANE, Wash. – The City of Spokane has announced a partnership with CHAS Health that they say will expand street medicine and help the local unhoused community.
The partnership was made possible in part by the Washington State Legislature who awarded $1 million to the city for this purpose.
The Spokane City Council approved the partnership earlier this week.
A street medicine team would provide mobile treatment to those experiencing homelessness to avoid a trip to the emergency room.
CHAS Health already has a team of street medicine providers, and the funding will contribute to expanding their team.
“CHAS Health has always been committed to serving everyone, including our neighbors who are living unhoused. We started our street medicine program in 2021, providing primary care services at homeless shelters, in encampments, and on the sidewalk.” CEO of CHAS Health, Aaron Wilson said.
During the City Council meeting to vote on the partnership not all members were in full agreement of Brown’s proposal.
Micheal Cathcart voiced his concerns ultimately voting against the partnership because of the sole-source contract.
“There are times when a sole source makes a lot of sense but I’m not convinced that this is one of those times. I think we should be trying to find the most effective and bang for our buck” Cathcart said following his official vote.
Mayor Brown commented on the partnership commending CHAS on their dedication to a complex crisis.
“The CHAS Street Medicine team does incredible work and provides crucial services to those experiencing homelessness, battling substance abuse disorder, and suffering from mental health challenges in Spokane,” Brown said.
“As the City works toward better solutions for our unhoused population, it is imperative that we provide them with health care services.”
