Midwest Street Medicine looks to expand care resources

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) – A group of volunteers in Sioux Falls who help people on the street get medical care is looking to grow its services.

It’s been nearly two years since Midwest Street Medicine started helping people experiencing homelessness get items like bandages and proper clothing.

Co-founder of the non-protfit, Melissa Dittberner, says she knew she wanted to help the people in her community after seeing the homeless population in Los Angeles.

“When we got started, really, the principles of street medicine are to go to the people. And so we went out and asked people, ‘what do you need? What could we help you with if we had, you know, if we could do medicine, what would that look like?'” Dittberner said.

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Currently the volunteer staff has grown to over 40 people, many who have a medical background like Diane Eide, who is a registered nurse.

“Our volunteer base has gotten bigger. You know we have some very dedicated doctors and PAs and nurse practitioners and nurses and people that specialize in addiction care,” Eide said.

Dittberner says volunteers see anywhere from 40 to 60 people on their outreach days which happen on Sundays and Mondays in downtown Sioux Falls.

“Of course in the cold and flu season, cough drops or something like that is of need. And even like snacks to be able to just have a snack along the way. But really, hats, gloves, scarves, socks are kind of like primarily the need,” Dittberner said.

Many of the people who receive help are struggling with addiction, something Dittberner says she can relate to, and is another reason why this work is important to her.

“We want to be able to give people the dignity and the care that they need. I mean, take a moment to think about what it would look like yourself if you ended up in this situation. I’m sure that you would like our services to be of available to you. And so that’s really kind of where I’m coming from,” Dittberner said.

Midwest Street Medicine is looking to raise $1 million this year. Eventually the organization would like a dentist or hairstyle on its volunteer team, as well as service other parts of the city besides downtown.On April 26 the organization will be hosting a scavenger hunt fundraiser at Remedy Brewing Company in Sioux Falls.