UNITE FOR CHILDREN UNITE AGAINST AIDS

August 1, 2008

Rural Community an Example for the Rest of the Country

The residents of one community in Jamaica’s western parish of St. James have committed themselves to ensuring that the needs of children in families affected by HIV and AIDS in their neighborhood are met.

A parent support group has been established in the rural community of Vaughnsfield.  The purpose of the group is to provide tangible assistance to neighbours who are living with HIV.  The recently-formed group has already provided cooked meals, helped affected children with homework assignments and other school-related needs including covering costs for transportation and lunch.  Fundraising events are held to assist the community in providing these services. The local health department has also joined the effort by working with the larger community to improve knowledge about HIV prevention.

UNICEF has supported this partnership through training and sensitization activities for community group members and also, by providing income generating opportunities for the affected families.

At present, the fear of stigmatization has posed a barrier for some affected families to benefit from this unprecedented show of community support.  However, the commitment of the group’s members is firm and they are determined to make Vaughnsfield an example for the rest of the country.