Years of hard work and collaboration between Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine (WMed) and Kalamazoo Gospel Ministries (KGM) culminated in a joyous celebration on Friday, March 14, 2025, with the grand opening of the student-run Firehouse Clinic.
The clinic, located at 526 N. Burdick St. inside the city’s former Fire House No. 4, launched in August through a partnership between students in the medical school’s Community Health Interest Group (CHIG) and KGM.
Staffed by medical student volunteers on the first and third Friday of every month, the clinic is dedicated to serving the unhoused and economically underprivileged population of Kalamazoo, offering a comprehensive range of healthcare services tailored to meet the needs of the unhoused.
“Medical students, under the supervision of our faculty, are able to offer physical exams, management of chronic conditions, and preventative care to the unhoused and underserved in this space,” WMed Dean Robert G. Sawyer said. “By providing regular health screenings and medical services on-site, this clinic will reduce barriers to healthcare access, allow KGM to focus on essential services, connect people with sustainable community resources, and lead to better health outcomes in Southwest Michigan.”
The idea for the student-run clinic came about through the existing relationship between the medical school and KGM, as medical students have been offering health screenings at the mission dating back to 2017.
“It’s really through those screenings that we saw a significant need in our community for more accessible healthcare for the unhoused,” M4 Claire Kalina said. “I will never forget when one of the patients I saw at the shelter started crying and thanking me for being there and telling me that it was the first time she didn’t feel dirty or untouchable by a healthcare provider. I think that speaks to the work that our volunteers and our leaders provide to the patients that we serve.”
The clinic is currently staffed by medical student volunteers from 1 to 4:30 p.m. on the first and third Friday of every month. The effort is overseen by Cheryl Dickson, MD, MPH, associate dean for Community Education and Engagement, and Mark Schauer, MD, associate professor in the Department of Medicine, who serve as attending physicians in the clinic.
“This clinic was born out of a desire to use what limited skills we have to give back to those who need it the most,” M4 Andrew Mattingly said. “Each day when I walk through these doors, I'm inspired and deeply humbled by my peers who choose to spend their free time not at a golf course or taking a much-needed nap, but instead offering care to those who need it the most. I hope we never lose sight of this spark of empathy and that this clinic continues to serve as a beacon for those in Kalamazoo for years to come.”
The clinic adds another critical layer of services to the impactful work of KGM, ensuring individuals not only have access to food and shelter, but also the health and well-being they deserve.
“This clinic isn’t just about physical health, it’s about how we as a community come together to support one another, especially those that may not have easy access to healthcare,” said Pastor John Simpson, chief operations officer for KGM. “The students have worked tirelessly to make sure this clinic is a reality, gaining hands-on experience while serving those that are often overlooked. This is more than just a learning opportunity; it is a chance to make a real and lasting impact.”