By Henry Luzzatto

Correspondent

Nationally-celebrated Health Care for the Homeless Day made its way to Suffolk on Thursday, as Main Street Physicians offered giveaways and information all day to mark the occasion.

A part of National Health Center Week, Health Care for the Homeless Day has served to raise awareness about the services provided by community health centers.

According to Sarah Anthony, director of outreach at Main Street Physicians, the goal of the day’s events is to “push the awareness that the homeless can get health care in Suffolk.”

The center had been taking part in National Health Center Week and spreading the word about the services they offered. “We’ve been going to churches and recreational centers,” Anthony said. “We try to get word of mouth out.”

People that came into the Main Street Physicians center on Thursday were offered a bag of useful items, including hand sanitizer and a pill case, and were given sheets detailing treatment options for illnesses.

The staff also offered backpacks with the center’s name and address on them, as well as school supplies for children. In the afternoon, patients waiting for treatment were given free raffle tickets to win a basket full of luxury items like soaps, lotions and herbal teas.

Workers also quizzed patients’ knowledge on topics such as normal blood pressure numbers and correct portions sizes for food. The person who correctly answered the most won a cookbook full of healthy recipes and diet tips.

“It’s to get new people with the word of mouth,” Sarah Anthony said about the giveaways, “but it also gives us a chance to show appreciation for our patients.”

The Health Care for the Homeless project at Main Street Physicians provides medical care free of charge for those without a permanent residence. “We allow you to see a primary care physician and dental care for free,” Anthony said.

Health educator Lateef Khursheed added that the center provided education and resources for the homeless or underinsured also. “We provide them with resources, medication and connections,” he said, adding that good health is the first step to being viable in the workforce. “Good health is priceless,” he concluded.

Patients at Main Street Physicians ranged from young people without insurance to seniors no longer covered by work. However, there was one thing in common, according to patients — they were all treated with kindness.

“This place cares about you, not the money,” stated Rose Mary Davis, a senior who was receiving treatment. “It’s within your budget for everyone.”

The organization as a whole offers health care for every budget and hoped to raise awareness and participation with the Health Care for the Homeless Day celebration.

“We’re trying to keep Suffolk healthy,” Sarah Anthony concluded. “Everybody deserves someone looking after their health.”