ARV Workshop Gaining Momentum

In July 2010, 31 children met at VMS to learn about living with HIV and AIDS, their medication, and the importance of adhering to the drug regimen. This past winter we learned that 80 children and teens are now part of this flourishing ARV Workshop. Special workshops and discussions focusing on healthy diets, protected sex, teenage pregnancies etc. are all well attended and becoming increasingly popular among the young adult population. HFL is heartened to hear of the success of this developing program since social stigma related to HIV and AIDS, ensuing secrecy, and lack of adherence to medication schedules have long been stumbling blocks to managing the spread of this disease. HFL is committed to helping VMS continue this positive approach to HIV/AIDS awareness among the youth of South Africa.

Sue-Anne reports that representatives from the Children’s Rights Center who were conducting a survey for the National Strategic Plan for HIV & AIDS joined them on a recent camping trip. Our students’ responses to their queries included a desire for more doctors during their monthly hospital visits so they don’t have to waste entire days waiting to be checked. Access to a television to while away the boring hours was also high on their request list. Perhaps a generous HFL supporter can help them out with this appeal!

2012 presents us with an exciting possibility of helping to set up skills training opportunities to teach our ARV workshop students basic courses in carpentry, confectionary, baking, sewing, farming etc. in an effort to prepare these youngsters to be productive, employable young adults.