India: Support children affected by HIV/AIDS

In the Namakkal district in the Indian province of Tamilnadu, AIDS is an enormous problem. Due to the drought, caused by the lack of monsoon rains, many leave to seek work elsewhere, increasing the risk of spreading the disease. Aid services do not have the means necessary and are spread too thin to provide effective resistance. Many children directly or indirectly become victims of HIV/AIDS, either by becoming infected themselves or by having their parents die of the disease. A lack of knowledge in the community means these children are often stigmatised and discriminated against.

The objective of the Society for Serving Humanity (SSH) for the next three years is to provide 150 children affected by HIV/AIDS with information, education and support while raising awareness of AIDS within the village community. After this period, the community should take over care and support for these children itself.

The project was launched in October 2007. The support comes in the form of teaching materials, uniforms and transportation to school, as well as nutritional supplements, yoga and skills training. Salaries for local staff are also included.