The HB is an innovative outreach program of Sherbourne Health Centre, providing health care services to homeless and under-housed people in the City of Toronto. The program is distinct in its model of care , it is mobile and accessible, going out to the community to reach people, services are provided by professional, non-judgmental, respectful, and supportive health care staff and volunteers. Th
e Program uses a holistic approach to health care that addresses psychosocial as well as medical concerns. It emphasizes building relationships based on trust. PROGRAM DELIVERY
The Health Bus operates 10 -13 pre-fixed schedule weekly, goes to the community stops at homeless shelters, drop-in programs and community centres. No appointment or Health Card is necessary to access care. WHAT WE DO and HOW WE DO IT
The Health Bus delivers health care services to individuals who are experiencing barriers accessing health care, with a primary focus in linking them to ongoing primary health care provider. The service we provide on the Health Bus include basic nursing care, supportive counseling, referral to health care and social services, hygiene and harm reduction supplies. TARGET POPULATION
The population we serve include:
• Homeless individuals and families
• Youth
• LGBTTQ population
• S*x workers
• Newcomers
• Aboriginal population
THE TEAM OF STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS
This valued program owes much of its success to Program Staff , Partner Agencies Staff and over 60 Registered Nurse Volunteers who make a difference, by attending to people who have unmet health care needs, listening to their stories and providing care, teaching on health matters; providing information and guidance to help them navigate the health care system. The Team working on the Health Bus delivers health care services to over 2,000 people each month and refers and connects over 300 individuals annually to primary health care providers.
