Optimizing Care for People Experiencing Homelessness and Serious Mental Illness amidst COVID-19: A Street Outreach Perspective

The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately affected marginalized individuals with multiple vulnerabilities, including those experiencing serious mental illness and homelessness. This population is adversely affected by the pandemic due to loss of opportunities for social connection and support, decreased engagement with community services, and increased risk of mental and physical health deterioration. Multidisciplinary street outreach teams have employed an instrumental service model in the provision of community-based, comprehensive care for individuals experiencing homelessness, often with concurrent challenges with mental illness and addictions. However, during this period of unprecedented and additional vulnerability, street outreach teams must adapt their existing practices to meet the evolving needs of their client population. This article aims to highlight the impact of COVID-19 on people with serious mental illness experiencing homelessness, and then share lessons learned and recommendations for action to optimize care and support to this vulnerable population amidst COVID-19.