ProHealth Waukesha Memorial Hospital partners with community-based agencies on a variety of programs. In October 2021, ProHealth provided health services and resources for people who experience homelessness as part of United Way’s Homelessness Awareness Week.
Hundreds of basic-need kits and backpacks packed by ProHealth leaders were distributed at the Salvation Army, Women's Center and Hope Center in Waukesha. A team of ProHealth nurses also provided 50 flu vaccinations and community health information at St. James Place, the Women's Center, Hope Center and Journey House Youth Center on Milwaukee's south side.
ProHealth helps combat homelessness by:
- Conducting community health needs assessments to identify the most significant needs of our community and prioritize community benefit efforts.
- Offering free social work services and clothing at discharge for emergency department patients who are homeless and in need.
- Volunteering at agencies that serve people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
- Delivering street outreach services, flu vaccinations, blood pressure and blood sugar screenings, and community health information as part of local community initiatives.
- Providing emergency support in response to requests from local shelters.
“We know that housing is an important social determinant of health,” said Sarah Butz, director of community benefit. “ProHealth’s support of this initiative is an example of how we continue to help improve community health beyond the walls of our hospitals and clinics.”