Medical Service For Homeless Supported By Endowment

ALEXANDRIA, VA — MedStreet, a nonprofit providing medical services to the homeless in Alexandria and nearby, will benefit from a new endowment from a local doctor.

The Mitchell E. Davis, M.D. Endowment for MedStreet and the Very Needy People They Help was established for MedStreet through ACT for Alexandria. MedStreet is an all-volunteer organization launched in 2020 by Dr. William Mazzella. The doctor spends time in between hospital shifts meeting the homeless where they are in Alexandria and other nearby areas.

The endowment comes from Dr. Mitchell Davis, a retired ophthalmologist who lives in northwest DC. The gift of $75,000 also comes with a $10,000 grant for immediate use. Future distributions will be provided annually during the first quarter.

"Dr. Davis’s support came as a complete surprise," said Mazzella in a statement. "We are immensely grateful to him for reaching out to us."

Mazzella said the endowment will help MedStreet expand its program
offerings, buying accessory medical supplies to administer COVID-19 vaccinations. MedStreet has made vaccinations a new focus after being approved by the Virginia Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to distribute vaccines to the homeless population in and around Alexandria. MedStreet has already given first doses.

"The endowment will have a significant and incredibly positive impact on our ability to reach more of our homeless neighbors," said Mazzella. "It means that we will be able to increase the level of care we provide and allow us to purchase more targeted medical supplies and equipment."

Davis has supported dozens of DC area nonprofits over the years, contributing millions over several years. Davis learned about MedStreet through Act for Alexandria. His philanthropy is typically focused on small nonprofits, and he decided to support the nonprofit after speaking with a MedStreet volunteer.

"I want to give to charities where my donation will have a significant impact," said Davis. "I only know that when I do good, I feel good. Even a small contribution can make a big difference."

For more information about MedStreet and its stories, visit www.medstreet.org.