In 1992, Dr. Jim Withers, an internal medicine physician, began providing medical care to the unsheltered homeless population directly on the streets of Pittsburgh. He partnered with formerly homeless individuals and, initially dressing as a homeless person, began to make nighttime street rounds in the alleys and under the bridges of the city. From this initial outreach service other clinical volunteers joined in and Operation Safety Net was born. Today, OSN is recognized as one of nations’ first targeted full-time street medicine programs and continues to set the standard for this unique form of health care.

Our homeless clients have taught us how to best serve them in the context of their real lives. Through deep, personal connection with individuals, we are able to partner with them to find solutions.