Midwest Street Medicine kicks off week of outreach and awareness

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (Dakota News Now) - Sunday marks the beginning of Hunger & Homeless Awareness Week in Sioux Falls.

In the morning, Midwest Street Medicine provided outreach for people experiencing homelessness, including HIV testing, vaccinations for the flu and the coronavirus, giving out coats and addressing any other medical needs.

Ahead of winter, extra warmth is given with a smile and necessary medical care. According to Midwest Street Medicine Co-Founder and Executive Director Dr. Melissa Dittberner, they've reached over 1000 unhoused people and provided medical care for over 400 unhoused people since they began as a nonprofit in the summer of 2023.

"[It's about] making sure that we have compassion and empathy and dignity in that we just ask people what they need," Dittberner explained. "We don't project it on people. If somebody is unhoused and they want to get housing, then that's what we'll move to. If they choose to stay unhoused, then we're just going to get them the things that they need. If it's addiction and mental health care or if it's medical care that keeps them safe and happy, then that's what we're going to do."

Midwest Street Medicine made their normal Sunday rounds, but heading into a special week of reflection and visibility, Dittberner said it's a great opportunity to show the public what they do and what needs they're addressing in the community.

"To me, I guess, it is about advocating, educating and lifting up the unhoused population," said Dittberner.

Outside of providing syphilis tests, vaccinations, food or clothing, building bonds with the ones they have provided care for leaves an impact beyond measure.

"I love when I see you guys all the time, that's very, very good," Sioux Falls resident Yai Yai told Dittberner. " We [were] out in the street, were sleeping and like homeless, you know? But we're very good, very well. God bless you."

"I feel so grateful to meet people along the way that become forever friends. We get to see each other weekly, we get to catch up and see how they're doing and then we get to support them," Dittberner said.

A news conference will be held at the Bishop Dudley Hospitality House on Monday followed by a memorial walk to the Homeless Memorial site. There will be a short memorial service and a reading of the names of people who have passed away in 2024.

More information on scheduled outreach events and ways for the public to get involved will be shared on Monday at the news conference. Stick with Dakota News Now throughout the week.