Health Clinic
Individuals in our community face significant health issues, often resulting from their lifestyle - physical ailments caused by living on the streets or in poor-quality housing, or the side effects of substance abuse and "tough living". Some common issues we deal with are foot care problems, wounds, infectious diseases (especially sexually transmitted diseases, skin infections and lung infections), and mental health care. Our team provides a range of care from basic stitch removal, to management of complex health care, like HIV/AIDs.
Sanctuary deals with a host of other medical issues, including:
- stabbings
- beatings
- nose bleeds
- alcohol and drug addictions
- seizures
- pancreatitis
- sexually transmitted diseases
- AIDS
- pregnancy
- cancer
- neurological disorders
- depression
- schizophrenia
- manic depression
Many people at Sanctuary are dealing with deep emotional pains and hurts, often due to years of sexual, physical or emotional abuse. For many, the alcohol and/or drug use means that they can cope with the pain a bit longer rather than having to face it head on. While caring for the basic physical health of the community, Sanctuary staff also care for emotional and spiritual health.
With issues like the loss of a Health Card seeming insurmountable, people on the street will avoid normal health care institutions. Sanctuary staff attend doctor's appointments and hospitals as advocates for individual community members. They also provide referrals for doctors or dentists.
If you would like more information about the HEALTH CLINIC please contact Thea Prescod at 416-922-0628 x.218.