Health Care for the Homeless (HCH) began in 1985 as a demonstration project funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Pew Charitable Trust. In 1987, it was formalized into a national program through the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act. What started as a four-year pilot in response to a growing homelessness crisis has since evolved into a federally funded program with lasting national impact.
Accessing Health Care for the Homeless Services
Health Care for the Homeless is a program of the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) that provides federal funding to 300 qualifying health centers in the United States. These health centers are required to serve both insured and uninsured individuals experiencing homelessness with The National Health Care for the Homeless Council 2025 data showing nearly one million patients served. The types of services depend on the provider, but some of these services include:
- Primary care
- Mental health treatment
- Dental care
- Substance use disorder treatment
- Preventive care
- Outreach and education
- Enrollment/benefits assistance
- Referrals
- Case management
- Transportation assistance
Health Care for the Homeless at Pillars Community Health (PCH)
By eliminating barriers such as a lack of insurance, Health Care for the Homeless helps people care for their health before issues escalate, while also offering a safe, affordable alternative when urgent needs arise. At PCH, we put this model into practice in innovative ways.
Supported by HRSA’s Health Care for the Homeless funding, PCH has developed a community-based model that goes beyond traditional health services. Through partnerships with BEDS Plus—a local organization providing essential housing support—and UCM Advent Health La Grange, we connect medical, dental, and behavioral health care with housing and recovery resources. Together, we bridge gaps for people who might otherwise avoid or not have access to care, creating new pathways to health and healing in our community.
Coordinated Entry and Local Services
As a Cook County Coordinated Entry site, PCH provides case management for unhoused individuals and families. This includes survivors of domestic violence, who are at increased risk of homelessness after leaving unsafe situations. In the past, we supported BEDS’ former overnight shelters. Today, we provide:
- Medical services on-site at BEDS’ long-term housing facility in La Grange
- Medical and dental services at our integrated health center in La Grange Park
- Comprehensive medical, dental, behavioral health, substance use counseling, and education at BEDS Plus’ Summit Service Center
In addition, PCH and BEDS Plus partner to provide medical respite care—short-term, residential care for people experiencing homelessness who are too ill to recover on the street but not sick enough to remain hospitalized. Our clinicians provide direct medical evaluations and treatment for all adults qualifying for respite services, ensuring safe recovery and connection to ongoing health care. To extend this care further, the UCM Advent Health La Grange Family Medicine Residency Program provides outpatient and inpatient management when shared clients are admitted for healing.
Extending Care Through Collaboration
Individuals experiencing homelessness who are adults ages 19-64 who have low incomes, lack health insurance, or are medically underserved can access services through The Community Healthcare Network of the Western Suburbs. Through this collaboration between providers, patients have access to services:
- Low-cost, comprehensive medical care, mental health services, and psychiatric services at Pillars Community Health.
- Local volunteer specialists.
- Free laboratory services.
- Diagnostic, radiology services, and hospitalization through AMITA Health Adventist Medical Center in La Grange.
- Discounted prescriptions.
Our Commitment
Whole-person care is available for everyone. To learn more or access services, visit our La Grange Park Integrated Health Center, connect with BEDS Plus, or call our Benefits & Enrollment team at 708-PILLARS. Together, we can ensure that health care and housing are within reach for every neighbor.