(PALM SPRINGS, CA – July 10, 2008)
The HIV care and prevention system in California is facing unprecedented challenges.
“Based on income data from major California urban areas, at least two-thirds of Californians with HIV/AIDS are believed to be living at or below 300% of Federal Poverty level,” said David Brinkman, Executive Director of Desert AIDS Project. “Yet while HIV/AIDS caseloads among low-income populations steadily increase, federal financial resources for California continue to dwindle.”
That’s why the Inland Empire HIV Planning Council will be holding its 2008 Priority Setting and Allocations Summit from July 30 – August 1 at The Grove Community Church, 19900 Grove Community Drive in Riverside. The Summit will be held on each of these three days from 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
To help everyone – but most especially D.A.P. clients – learn more about the Summit and why they should consider attending, Brinkman will hold a special community meeting at D.A.P. on Wednesday, July 23 at 7:00 PM at 1695 N. Sunrise Way in Palm Springs. A light supper will be served at 6:30 PM.
“Each year, an average of at least 4,500 Californians progress from HIV to AIDS, while as many as 5,000 additional Californians may become newly infected with HIV each year,” said Brinkman. “Current Ryan White legislation is scheduled to permanently expire at the end of 2009 – an event that could threaten the health and well-being of tens of thousands of low-income Californians. At the same time, potential changes to Medicaid and emerging universal health care initiatives are expected to have serious implications on HIV services in California. We’re hoping this Summit will help to change the future of statewide collaboration and planning for HIV/AIDS funding.”
Desert AIDS Project is the organization in our community where people living with HIV and AIDS can receive comprehensive support, including medical care, case management, and social services. D.A.P. also offers confidential HIV testing at a number of locations and widespread education and prevention services for schools, civic organizations, businesses, churches, and health organizations throughout the communities it serves. For more information, visit www.desertaidsproject.org or call 760-323-2118.
