The Reality of Wound Care for the Homeless in Washington State

Access to healthcare should be a basic human right, yet for many experiencing homelessness in Washington State, proper wound care is nearly impossible to obtain. In places like Longview, Washington, where homeless services are critical, individuals are left with few options, often leading to preventable complications, infections, and even amputations. At Love Overwhelming, a nonprofit dedicated to harm reduction and peer support, we see these struggles firsthand and work tirelessly to bridge the gap in healthcare access.

The Struggles of Wound Care for the Unhoused 

Many people experiencing homelessness do not have access to proper medical care, leaving them to manage serious wounds on their own. In Cowlitz County and surrounding areas like Lewis County, Grays Harbor County, Pacific County, and Clark County, wound care clinics that accept Medicaid are nearly nonexistent. This means those who cannot afford private healthcare are left without resources, increasing their risk of infections and life-threatening complications.

One heartbreaking example involves a man who was washing and reusing his bandages because he had no other option. With flies swarming his wounds and a strong odor signaling infection, it was clear his situation was dire. The team at Willipa Behavioral Health & Wellness provided him with fresh bandages and coaching on how to properly care for his wounds, ensuring he had the supplies needed to prevent further harm.  *watch at www.youtube.com/@sircharlesxiii

Why Medicaid-Accessible Wound Care Is Critical

The lack of Medicaid-accepting wound care providers in Longview, Washington, and across Washington State is devastating. Many of the individuals who desperately need these services are the same ones who cannot afford commercial healthcare. Without accessible options, they are forced to either suffer in silence or attempt to travel to cities like Seattle—an impossible journey for most.

This gap in care often results in individuals losing their legs or developing life-threatening infections simply because they cannot receive the help they need. As community health workers and peer support specialists, we do our best to educate and equip individuals with wound care supplies, but systemic change is necessary.

Harm Reduction and Community Support

At Love Overwhelming, we operate on the principles of harm reduction, and a relational service model and community-based intervention. Our team, which includes peer support specialists and Community Health Workers, are successful with assisting, mentoring, and supporting people with chronic health conditions.  Currently, Love Overwhelming has over 125 persons engaged in services and programs in Longview, Washington - Cowlitz County -  Love Overwhelming has developed rapport and trust which has led to increased opportunities for people to access, engage, and maintain housing solution, recovery services, and medical needs met in the Longview - Kelso - Cowlitz County - Washington State.  

We provide essential homeless services in Longview, Washington, including housing assistance, recovery support, and employment programs. Our Love Overwhelming Podcast continues to raise awareness about these critical issues, amplifying the voices of those on the frontlines of homelessness and healthcare advocacy.

How You Can Help - Systemic issues require community action. 

You can help by:

✅ Donating wound care supplies to local shelters and outreach organizations

✅ Advocating for Medicaid-accessible wound care clinics in Cowlitz County and beyond

✅ Supporting organizations like Love Overwhelming in their efforts to provide peer support and harm reduction services

To learn more, visit our website: www.loveoverwhelming.org

Follow us on social media:

🔹 Facebook: facebook.com/loveoverwhelming

🔹 Instagram: instagram.com/loveoverwhelming

🔹 TikTok: tiktok.com/@loveoverwhelming

🔹 YouTube: youtube.com/@sircharlesxiii

Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness in Longview, Washington, and throughout Washington State. Let’s work toward a future where everyone has access to the care they deserve.

Location: Washington, USA

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