STREET. PAUL, Minn. — Minneapolis VA and Catholic Charities Twin Cities are partnering to combat veteran homelessness. The association provides on-site medical care to veterans who are homeless or in danger of becoming homeless through a new “VA Mobile Medical Unit” (MMU).
On Tuesday morning, network leaders gathered to celebrate. For starters, MMU will leave once a week from Dorothy Day’s campus in St. John’s. Paul.
“This unique option has the potential to radically replace veterans’ expectations and close equity gaps where they possibly exist,” said Kurt Theilen, associate director of the Minneapolis VA Health System.
The MMU is one of 25 deployed nationwide through the VA. It is fully equipped with medical devices and aims to serve veterans wherever they are.
“We regard veterans as revered and vital members of our society. Often, the other people we see here at Catholic charities are other people who have been disconnected from what they need,” said Keith Kozerski, program director for Catholic Charities Twin Cities. That’s why it’s vital for us to help them reconnect so they get the dignity and honor they deserve for serving our country in such a vital way. “
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According to the CCTC, more than one in ten people staying at its St. John is not in the same situation as the S. C. Paul Dorothy Day is a veteran. Community leaders say the new cellular medical unit is a much-needed service.
“It’s just a vehicle,” said the mayor of St. John, Davis. Paul, Melvin Carter. ” It’s a change of mentality. What if we could take on the task of locating them?”
The cellular clinic can provide veterans with physical fitness, intellectual fitness and preventive care assessments, referrals to VA resources, and much more.
“When you’re homeless and you’re out there, the last thing you worry about is your health,” said Sidney Patterson, a Vietnam veteran. “And really, it’s a mandatory thing. “
Patterson knows what it’s like to be homeless. He believes that the cellular medical unit will change his life.
“Don’t be afraid to ask for help,” he said. If you see that truck, run to it. There is a plan. And it’s not the end, it’s the beginning. “
The MMU will be stationed outside the St. John’s Day Centre. Paul Dorothy every Tuesday, 10 a. m. to 2 p. m. m. La hope is that MMU can expand its presence to other Twin Cities locations.