HIV and AIDS support
Our local partners run a number of HIV and AIDS support initiatives including feeding patients on HIV treatment, support groups for people living with HIV and practical, emotional and spiritual support for orphaned and vulnerable children and their carers.
Discover more about how E3 partners are supporting people affected by HIV and AIDS in Malawi through the work of Sunrise Ministries.
Although the spread of HIV has been reduced by prevention activities like raising awareness and changing behaviour, and antiretroviral medication has improved life for people living with HIV, there are many challenges in the communities in which E3 partners serve:
People don’t know their HIV status
It is vital that people find out whether they are HIV positive and receive the support they need, including support groups where people encourage each other and learn how to live healthier lives.
HIV stigma is still a huge issue
Many people do not want to share that they are HIV positive. This was one of the reasons why HIV spread so devastatingly across Africa and E3 partners are working to overcome stigma and encourage people to be open about their status.
Antiretroviral medication (ARVs)
ARVs help people live with the disease, but they must be taken at the same time daily with nutritious meals so they are effective. People need education, encouragement and access to healthy food, as well as help with transport if the clinic is far away.
Orphaned and vulnerable children
There are thousands of children whose parents died from AIDS-related illnesses. Grandmothers and in some cases older siblings are bringing up numerous orphaned children. Without help, it is impossible to afford food, shelter and school supplies. Children also need psychosocial support to cope and heal.
The impact of HIV worsens poverty
For example, elderly grandmothers are trying to support the whole family with a tiny government pension. That’s why E3’s improving livelihoods work is making such a huge difference in people’s lives so they can earn a living and provide for their families.
HIV awareness and prevention
In some communities, it is vital to continue with HIV awareness and prevention activities to remind and reach new people. This includes training for church leaders so they are equipped with knowledge about HIV and how they can help change behaviour
Amidst the pain and suffering caused by HIV, E3 partners are bringing hope for the present and the future as they reach out in word and action and respond to all of these challenges.
“Before joining an Acts of Faith support group, I didn’t know that I could be productive and earn a living using my hands. Through the skills I have gained, I’m now earning an income and supporting my children. I have learned to share my HIV status with other people and show them that it is not a death sentence – life can go on. The group is a safe space for me because I can speak about everything and anything and being together with other people with the same experiences as me feels good. It always puts a smile on my face!”
— Edith, Kingdom of eSwatini
Grandmothers are bringing up numerous grandchildren who have been orphaned because of AIDS-related illnesses.
HIV counselling and testing is vital so people know their HIV status and can live positively with the disease and receive the support they need.
School meals help children concentrate on their learning and not their rumbling tummies! Teachers have reported the difference the meals are making.