Coastal Street Medicine is going strong. The program started a year and a half ago; in February (our last posting), we had 70 patients. Now we have enrolled 117 patients, many of whom are coming to MCC for their primary care, where they can also get referrals for mental health, dental health and specialty care.

Bill Simon, RN and Ana Toscano, receptionist, both work at MCC, and along with Cathy Perkins from the Hospitality Center, are the mainstay of the program.

We’re at the Hospitality Center in Fort Bragg on Wednesdays from 9.30 to 11.30, and at Mendocino Presbyterian Church on the last Tuesday of the month at 1:00 pm. We take vital signs, provide care for immediate health problems (including wound care) and referrals to primary care. We also distribute hygiene products like soap, shampoo, socks and sunscreen.