Colton, CA—The Colton High School HEAL pathway is collecting basic first aid and hygiene supplies to help California University of Sciene and Medicine’s Street Medicine program.

“It brings attention to a need that exists in our community,” said Kristin Griffith, coordinator for the HEAL pathway.

Students are putting together care packages for distribution in November. This is a great opportunity for Colton High students to work with those more experienced, Griffith explained. “HEAL students are getting to work alongside current medical students and build a mentor relationship.”

These care packages will support the medical clinic at Mary’s Mercy Center in San Bernardino. Mary’s Mercy Center provides basic medical care for people who are in need and/or are experiencing homelessness in our community. They pass out the care packages during this time.

The CUSM Street Medicine Program is a partnership between the CSUSB Nursing program and Mary’s Mercy Center. It’s emphasis is providing roadside medical health care and support for the unhoused. CSUSB’s program began in the high desert, operating exclusively in the Coachella Valley, but is branching out into the Inland Empire.

“It began on the Palm Desert campus but started in San Bernardino about a year ago,” said Diane Vines, Street Medicine program director for CSUSB Palm Desert.

Working with the Street Medicine program has been an impactful experience for the HEAL students, who benefit from working with medical students and interns out of CSUSB.

The HEAL Pathway prepares students for careers in the health field. The pathway is a four-year track. Students take all A-G required classes in addition to medical classes, like ROP Medical Technology or Sports Medicine. Three of the current courses are articulated to college, including Anatomy, Sports Medicine, and Medical Terminology.

In middle school, students are introduced to the pathway and given an opportunity to sign up for their freshman year. Once accepted into the program, students will benefit greatly from engaging with several guest speakers—including firefighters, pathologists, nurses, physical therapists—earning certifications in CPR and Stop the Bleed, going on educational field trips, and gaining access to internship opportunities.

“We basically provide a robust experience that prepares [students] for a job in any medical field,” Griffith said.