Let's talk about colon health
People experiencing homelessness are twice as likely to die from cancer than the average adult in the United States. And the risk from colon cancer is even higher if you're Black or African American.
For Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, we put a special focus on addressing misconceptions and prompting clients to get screened! Many people are uncomfortable with the idea of a traditional colonoscopy and don't know they have the option of a noninvasive FIT test, good for one year.
Putting prevention front and center:
- We texted over 600 clients who are overdue for a colorectal screening—and got an overwhelming response back, with all 64 colorectal screening specific slots filled up!
- At our March Front Porch campaign at Fallsway, staff spoke to 70+ clients about the importance of screening for colorectal cancer, while also handing out street safety kits, hot chocolate, coffee, donuts and winter gear.
- Our medical assistants, nurses, and harm reduction staff all got renewed training on addressing cancer screenings with clients.
Header image: Director of Population Health & Care Coordination Tracy Russell, RN, helping out at the outreach table. Right: Tracy and Population Health Nurse Shannon Riley, RN.
Are you or someone you know due for a screening?
Check out our guide to colon health and the screenings we offer. Everyone between the ages of 45 and 75 needs regular screenings for colorectal cancer. Talk to your provider about your options.
More Recent News
Earlier this year, the Health Resources and Services Administration and the Bureau of Primary Health Care rolled out 2026 Community Health Quality Recognition Badges. Health Care for the Homeless received four badges
Preparing for reentry starts before release. Discover how Health Care for the Homeless staff are connecting with people behind prison walls, offering support and linking them to resources that can help make the transition home a little easier.
Major changes to Medicaid are coming, and Maryland estimates 175,000 people could lose their health coverage. For people experiencing homelessness, navigating new requirements and maintaining coverage can be especially hard. We talked with Nia Ballard of HealthCare Access Maryland (HCAM) about what’s changing, what she’s hearing from people across Maryland and why keeping people connected to health care matters.
Spend the day with our Fallsway Dental Team and get a behind-the-scenes look at a busy day of cleanings, fillings, dentures and everything in between. Meet the dedicated staff helping clients access the treatment they need while building lasting relationships and healthier smiles.