Eating healthy food is not a choice that most people experiencing homelessness can make, and the consequences to their health can be devastating. Farrell Mike knows this reality all too well. During the years he was homeless, Farrell’s health deteriorated, and he was hospitalized many times.

Two years ago, Farrell moved into his new home at the Johnston Center in Milwaukee, which serves people who have experienced homelessness and/or have a disability. Farrell’s health has since dramatically improved thanks to the stability of his home and support from onsite resident services.“I appreciate the help here. I call them my ‘A team.’ They are great. They keep me busy,” said Farrell.

Healthy living programs inspire Farrell Mike

Farrell regularly attends onsite programming, including nutrition education workshops hosted by Megan Labine, a registered dietitian from Aurora St. Luke’s Medical Center, in partnership with Advocate Aurora Health. “I am a dialysis patient, and I want to learn about food I can eat so I don’t end up in the hospital again.” At the April workshop, Megan presented on nutrition and health topics, answered participant questions, led a chair yoga exercise, and distributed goody bags filled with a variety of fruits.

Megan looks forward to visiting the Johnston Center because residents like Farrell are motivated to learn and make changes to improve their health. With the support of onsite resident services and health and wellness programming, Farrell is making progress toward his health goal of becoming eligible for the kidney transplant list. “I used to weigh 350 pounds and now I weigh 240 pounds! They took me off several [blood pressure medication] pills,” he explained.

Partnerships help create healthy communities 

Partnerships with health institutions like Advocate Aurora Health are integral to our mission to build healthy communities across the region and empower residents to accomplish their personal health goals by meeting them where they are.

If you want to learn more about health partnership opportunities with us, please contact Felix Matlock at fmatlock@mercyhousing.org