LIHU‘E — Malama Pono Health Services received $200,000 in U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Community Development Block Grant Coronavirus funds for COVID-19 emergency housing and utilities assistance through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act.
The CDBG-CV CARES funding provides housing assistance to cover rent, mortgage and utilities costs for applicants who were pre-qualified by MPHS in advance of the funding release.
“We are thankful to be able to serve our community in such a holistic way at this time of great need, from housing to health care,” says MPHS President and CEO Mistee Bailey-Myrick.
“Most importantly, anyone in need of health services, support, or good, solid educational information, can turn to us. We want all of Kaua‘i’s people to be healthy and happy.”
MPHS is also providing COVID-19 testing in its new mobile health vehicle for the houseless population across the island, in partnership with members of the medical community and Westside Pharmacy. Testing is free.
MPHS’ mobile health vehicle is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays at various locations islandwide.
One Tuesday a month at various locations, the mobile health vehicle provides birth control consultations, HIV testing, STI testing and treatment, HEP C testing and COVID-19 testing.
The mobile-health-vehicle services are free, and insurance is accepted for birth-control consultations. Physical-distancing measures and other COVID-19 safety protocols are strictly implemented.
“Everyone deserves to be treated with compassion and dignity,” said Bailey-Myrick. “Our team of doctors, nurses, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, case workers and educators has a direct, powerful and positive impact on those who need it the most. We encourage you to take the time to address your health needs and maintain your good health.”
As Kaua‘i’s health needs have evolved, MPHS has evolved as well, helping to break down barriers to quality care, support and education for all, and serving those in need since 1986.
Since its founding, MPHS has added many clinical, support and education services to meet the needs of the Kaua‘i community, she said.
Today, MPHS provides women’s wellness and reproductive health care, testing and treatment for sexually-transmitted diseases including hepatitis B and C, case management and support services for HIV/AIDS clients, smoking-cessation programs, transgender services, parenting programs and more.
Visit mphskauai.org or call 245-9577 for more information.
The mobile-health-vehicle’s locations are posted at mphskauai.org/mobile-outreach-vehicle/.
