Social Needs Response Team

The COVID-19 Social Needs Response Team (SNRT) was created in April 2020 in response to the pandemic. When it first hit, it became apparent that historically marginalized communities were facing injustices at a disparaging rate compared to the majority. The shortcomings of our healthcare system were more prevalent than ever. In response to the social inequities exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, staff and students from the University of Pennsylvania created the Social Needs Response Team (SNRT). The team helps any person that has concerns about their safety or the safety of others, that has any immediate social needs, and/or is experiencing distress during this pandemic. This team is a collaborative effort among CHEA, the Center for Public Health Initiatives, and the Department of Social Work and Case Management.

Working alongside community-based organizations and local clinics, our team is able to refer patients locally. SNRT responds to the needs of Philadelphians with the assistance of an interdisciplinary team. Medical, nursing, and social work students alike come together in a remote setting to address a multitude of unmet social needs, either created or emphasized by the pandemic. Since it began, SNRT has received over 1000 referrals, with food assistance, housing, and employment among the community’s primary needs.