Manna Homeless Society Offers Mobile Foot Care
- Admin
- 14 hours ago
- 2 min read
Raquel’s Outreach Ambulance Brings Healing to Oceanside's Streets…
Where the homeless population faces daily battles with health and hardship, Raquel, a dedicated Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and footcare specialist, is bringing accessible care from the back of an ambulance. Operating as a mobile outreach unit, this innovative service targets vulnerable individuals, providing essential foot care and basic health support without the barriers of traditional clinics. “It’s about meeting people where they are,” says Raquel, who draws on her expertise to deliver immediate and preventive care directly to those in need.
Raquel’s ambulance serves as a pop-up clinic on wheels, equipped for autonomous services aligned with BC’s nursing regulations. She conducts thorough health assessments for stable conditions, identifying issues like dehydration or minor infections that plague those living rough. Specializing in foot care, she focuses on wound prevention—cleaning, dressing, and monitoring blisters, skin irritations, abrasions common from ill-fitting shoes or exposure—and helping prevent infections that could lead to hospitalization. Providing clean, dry socks and boots complete the need of caring for feet that find no refuge in shelter.
Beyond feet, Raquel supports and screens for health issues, and monitors vital signs. She offers nutrition counselling, hygiene assistance, and coordinates referrals to shelters or food banks. In emergencies, she’s trained in CPR, Naloxone use, and basic first aid, and is equipped with required medical supplies, including an AED. Raquel’s work bridges medical gaps, escalating cases to 911 when necessary.
Partnerships with Island Health bolster this effort, supporting mobile units for at-risk groups. Raquel’s story inspires as her timely care and prevention help to bring comfort to the street. As BC grapples with homelessness, Raquel’s services offer hope and compassionate, accessible care, proving small steps can lead to big strides in community health.
To support Manna Homeless Society and the ambulance service,
Monetary donations can be made by e-transfer to:
Or cheques can be sent to:
Manna Homeless Society
PO Box 389
Errington BC VOR 1VO
