by Jamie McGeechan
To combat the escalating overdose epidemic in St. Louis, The Salvation Army has introduced a state of-the-art mobile treatment center to provide addiction and recovery support throughout the Greater St. Louis area.
The goal of the Midtown Mobile Treatment Center is to remove barriers to treatment by taking services to remote parts of the community, especially areas that have high overdose rates, such as North St. Louis City and County and Jefferson County. Showcasing the commitment to turn the tide on addiction, it is emblazoned with the motto, “Hope and Healing are on the Move.”
“The mobile unit is a beacon of hope, bringing life-saving services directly to those most affected by addiction. By reaching individuals wherever they are, we break down barriers to access, providing immediate support and fostering a path to recovery,” said Major Adam Moore, St. Louis area commander. “This approach offers a lifeline to those in the throes of addiction and facilitates positive change throughout the region.”
According to Kim Beck, Midtown Service and Treatment Center executive director, funding from the Missouri Department of Mental Division of Behavioral Health played a pivotal role in bringing the initiative to fruition.
“We started to talk about this project many years ago to have a mobile treatment center that can serve people wherever they are; that day is now here. Our partnerships with the Missouri Department of Mental Health and Affinia Healthcare allow us to help wherever the need is,” said Kim, underscoring the collective effort that made this initiative possible.
At the mobile unit’s dedication earlier this year, members of the public had an opportunity to tour it, as well as the Midtown Service and Treatment Center and gain insight into the comprehensive services offered.
During the ribbon cutting, Mid Health’s land Divisional Commander Major Robert Mueller extended sincere thanks to the Missouri Department of Mental Health for their financial support. He acknowledged the tireless efforts of Gary Busiek, divisional director of social services, and the staff at Midtown Service and Treatment Center.
“Health is a basic human need, and The Salvation Army is an organization where people can access the services and support they need,” he said. “Unfortunately, access to vital services is difficult for many people, especially our unsheltered neighbors. The Midtown Mobile Treatment Center will provide services to anyone in need. We pray for those who will be treated, and we look forward to helping everyone who needs our help in the community.”
The Midtown Mobile Treatment Center is a testament to what can be achieved when compassion meets action. It represents a pivotal step toward addressing the health needs of St. Louis’ most vulnerable, especially the unsheltered, by ensuring that no one is beyond reach.
