On the ground in West Baltimore with Medical Director Dr .Tyler Gray
11.04.19
Q: Why should we invest in West Baltimore?
I’ve seen a lot of health disparities. Life expectancy is much lower. Jobs in the area are scarce. Public transportation is not reliable. And people have significant medical, mental health and substance use needs that aren’t being met. It’s where we need to be.
Q: What steps are you taking to build community and trust?
We’re connecting with organizations, community associations and churches - like Wilkens Avenue Mennonite Church - that are already doing good work in the community. By letting on-the-ground experts share their realities of homelessness, we’re in a better place to understand how to align with existing community strengths.
Q: Why do you like working in West Baltimore?
Our team of 10 sees between 10-30 people each day. Clients seem to appreciate a smaller, close-knit team, and they feel more comfortable here as a result. Even if you were a client who had never had an appointment with our therapist, Ebony Hicks, you would probably still know her face.
Q: What motivates you?
When we see clients succeed, it’s pretty awesome. Whether it’s a week or two without using drugs, actually getting housed or finding a job—I try to hold those moments up with my team because it takes a lot of work to get there.
See what West Baltimore clients are saying about their care and community.
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