Over the past few years, working collaboratively with the Homeless Services Planning Group facilitated by MCDSS, it became clear that if access to health services is to meaningfully increase for the homeless, care must be delivered where they gather. The new Buddy Eller Center is giving MCHC an opportunity to make that possible.

According to Mark Rohloff, Executive Director of the Ford Street Project, "For the homeless, barriers to care are tremendous. We are thrilled that MCHC is bringing health services to those in need, right where they eat and sleep. We are sure it will have a major impact in the lives of those who come to the Buddy Eller Center because when an individual becomes healthier, it is easier for them to maintain hope and pursue a healthier life."

The HRSA funding will help support the costs of a medical provider, a licensed therapist, a case manager and support staff. The Center will serve patients Monday through Friday during the morning hours. Patients in need of dental services will be brought to MCHC’s Hillside Health Center on Laws Ave., Ukiah, by a van, whose purchase was made possible by the HRSA grant. At full capacity the program is expected to serve 1,000 homeless patients each year.