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| Linda Weinreb, MD, received the 2015 Katharine F. Erskine Award for Women in health, science and technology from the YWCA of Central Massachusetts. Photo by Erika Sidor Photography |
Family physician and advocate for homeless families Linda Weinreb, MD, received the 2015 Katharine F. Erskine Award for Women in health, science and technology from the Young Women’s Christian Association of Central Massachusetts at its annual Tribute to Women luncheon on May 5.
Engaged in the Worcester community since 1987, Dr. Weinreb, vice chair and professor of family medicine & community health and professor of pediatrics, has worked tirelessly to address health disparities which affect homeless families, especially women and children. She cofounded and is the medical director of the Homeless Families Program at Family Health Center of Worcester. The comprehensive program provides integrated primary care, mental health, substance abuse, and support services for many of the city’s homeless and precariously housed families.
“It has been a great privilege to work in the Worcester community for the past 28 years. Strong and sustained collaborations with numerous talented and committed UMMS, community, and state partners; a meaningful and longstanding partnership with the Family Health Center of Worcester; and the support of the Department of Family Medicine and Community Health have made our accomplishments possible,” said Weinreb.
“Together we have addressed the needs of many of Worcester's homeless families with innovative integrated service approaches. We have also informed clinical practice, program design, and policy across the country.”
A nationally recognized expert on the health and support needs of homeless families, Weinreb has conducted federally funded research that aims to better understand the needs of homeless and poor-housed mothers and children, and has served on the advisory committee for the Central Massachusetts Housing Alliance and other related organizations.
She has steadfastly maintained her commitment to vulnerable populations, with the Erskine Award coming full circle with her receipt in 1999 of Worcester’s Women of Consequence Award, given annually to honor women who have made significant contributions to improving the quality of life for women in the city.
Related links on UMassMedNow:
Newsmaker: Telegram & Gazette “Erskine Awards going to women leaders”
14th annual Women’s Faculty Awards Luncheon celebrates leadership, mentoring and service
