Strengthening Partnerships: House of Hope and the Nursing Program Collaborate to Address Healthcare Disparities
Providence College’s nursing program, in collaboration with House of Hope and the Rhode Island Street Medicine Program, recently hosted a panel for all first-year nursing students titled “Addressing Health Care Disparities for People Experiencing Unsheltered Homelessness.” This event was made possible through a Community Advisor Program grant from the Feinstein Institute for Public Service (FIPS), which supports initiatives aimed at promoting positive social change in Rhode Island and beyond.
The panel featured several distinguished speakers, including providers and outreach workers/program managers from The House of Hope and the Rhode Island Street Medicine Program, as well as a past client and peer mentor with the House of Hope, who spoke about her own personal story and the impact on her life in the care she received from the programs’ services and team.
- Megan C. Smith, PhD, MSW, Outreach Worker, Rhode Island Street Medicine Program
- Annie Loerke, RN, Rhode Island Street Medicine Program
- Morgan Coombes, LCSW, Outreach Program Manager, The House of Hope
- Maureen Sumner, a past client and current peer mentor, The House of Hope
These speakers shared insights on the challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness and discussed strategies for nursing professionals to address these disparities. The event underscored the importance of community partnerships in enhancing health care delivery to underserved populations – essential components of our mission.
Amy Delaney, Ph.D. and Assistant Clinical Professor Jennifer Livesley, RN, MSN ’10, faculty members in the nursing program, played a pivotal role in organizing this event. Their dedication to integrating community service with academic study aligns with the mission of the Feinstein Institute for Public Service, which fosters collaborations aimed at addressing pressing social issues.
Following the panel, attendees toured the simulation labs, highlighting the potential for community health clinicals in Providence College’s nursing curriculum. Many students expressed interest in volunteering with The House of Hope and Rhode Island Street Medicine Program team, and the team’s new van was showcased to faculty, emphasizing their commitment to serving Providence’s clients.
The School of Nursing and Health Sciences remains committed to building partnerships that enhance community well-being and provide students with meaningful service-learning opportunities.
