Trinity Episcopal Church in Barrie is now offering a new clinic that provides dignified medical care to people experiencing homelessness and in need of medical care.
Compassionate Care without Barriers serves people who don't have a health care provider, but word of the program is slowly spreading.
Brad Miskenak has been homeless for about two years and says the program looks good.
“I don’t have a doctor, I don’t have any medical care, I don’t have any health care, so it’s perfect in case something happens,” he said.
Currently, the clinic is only open on Monday mornings.
Joanne Flood came up with the idea after years of working with vulnerable communities, including at the Buzbee Centre.
“I saw the need to go and hand out sandwiches or something to people who were suffering from coughs and colds and cuts and infections,” Flood said.
Brenda Brown is a nurse who volunteers with the program.
“You look at a lot of people who are just triggering homelessness right now, who are on the verge of becoming homeless.If you have someone who can prove your illness and prove that you have a problem. “Sometimes it only takes one paycheck. It makes a huge difference in the lives of people who are homeless,” Brown said.
Nick French, a former homeless person, believes the program will have a big impact.
“I think it's huge,” he said. “They actually care, just like Brenda and Joan, and the other stakeholders actually care. There's a lot of people who are grateful that this is here.”
To schedule an appointment for non-disabled compassionate care, please email or call 705-417-2763.