WHY HIV/AIDS?

AIDS.  The first named case was 30 years ago, and at that time, it was front page news. Yet, its been awhile since its been on the front page.  It's been awhile since it was a trending topic.  So, you might wonder if it is even relevant - or even if it has been cured.  For the millions and millions affected by HIV/AIDS, it couldn't be more relevant.  Let's explore and learn together.

WHY HIV/AIDS?

They are our neighbors & friends: Globally, there are 33 million people living with HIV/AIDS.  Two-thirds of people living with HIV are in sub-Sarahan Africa, where we work.

It is affecting tomorrow's leaders:  Half of all people who acquire HIV become infected before they turn 25.  AIDS is the second most common cause of death among 20-24 year olds.  In Africa, because AIDS often claims the lives of young parents, more children have been orphaned by AIDS than anywhere else - almost 15 million.

Women carry the burden:  Globally, HIV/AIDS is the leading cause of death among women of reproductive age. In the US, African American and Hispanic women account for 80 percent of AIDS cases.  In sub-Saharan Africa, around 59 percent of those living with HIV are female.

There is hope:  As access to education, medication and treatment has increased and stigma and fear continues to decrease, AIDS-related deaths have fallen by nearly 20 percent in the last five years, and new HIV infections have fallen by nearly 20 percent in the last 10 years.  New medications have enabled mothers to not pass the HIV virus to their unborn children.   

There is still great need:  For those living with HIV in need of life saving ARVs in Africa, only 40 percent have access to them.  Millions of those living with HIV who need treatment for infections do not have access to medical care.  Stigma and discrimination remains a significant barrier to encourage people to get tested and seek treatment.  

Change starts in the community:  Local grassroots organizations who desire to have an impact on their own communities rely on funding and resources from others to reach those infected with and affected by HIV/AIDS. Often large international organizations are challenged to reach the local community without significant infrastructure investments and significant local governmental involvement.

WHY Blood:Water Mission?

We've been in it from the beginning:  Since 2004, Blood:Water Mission has been a voice in the AIDS crisis, addressing it first through the foundational need of safe water.  For those with weakened immune systems due to HIV, safe water free of disease is critical to remain healthy.

Our partners are key: Our local grassroots partners are asking for support in developing HIV/AIDS programs, and we are investing in them to respond to their needs. They are best suited to address the most complex situations through locally relevant solutions.

Our approach is holistic: Through a holistic approach that includes education, treatment and care, new cases of AIDS can be halted and those with HIV can live a long, positive life.

Our model meets the local needs: Our model is unique in that we will support what is needed and necessary to address the local needs, not what is dictated by a one-time, short-term, one-dimensional solution.  

Our results are proof: Over 30,000 people now have access to education, treatment, and care because of our grassroots approach.  For an example, watch the story of our work in Marsabit.

Our vision is bold:  We desire to see our friends  know and embrace their HIV status.  For those who test positive, we will support them through necessary treatment and care.  For those who test negative, we want to provide the education and resources to keep them healthy.  For the whole community, we want to remove the barriers of stigma so that everyone can live a unified future - together.

We are counting on YOU:  In order to reach those who have yet to be tested and support those who live positively with HIV/AIDS, your voice, creative campaigns and generous donations are urgently needed.   We invite you to know someone, and make an impact. With your help, we can make the stories of those living with HIV relevant again.  

Want to go deeper in your understanding of HIV/AIDS?  Visit our FAQ page.

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