“Take the test. Take control” on National HIV Testing Day – and get a $10 gift card

(PALM SPRINGS, CA – June 23, 2009)

Even as the future of HIV/AIDS programs and services faces possible obliteration in California, Desert AIDS Project will observe National HIV Testing Day by providing free and confidential HIV testing on Thursday, June 25 from 4:30 – 6:00 PM at its main facility at 1695 N. Sunrise Way in Palm Springs. Those making appointments and waiting the 20 minutes to receive their test results will receive a $10 card, redeemable at either Arco gas stations or Stater Brothers grocery stores.

“With a local HIV infection rate that is four times the national average, it remains a huge concern for the future health of the Coachella Valley. Some of our public and private funding sources understand that an economic incentive – like these gift cards – help some people make the important decision to take an HIV test. Stigma surrounding AIDS remains a powerful thing in many segments of the population – some of which are the most vulnerable,” says David Brinkman, Executive Director of Desert AIDS Project.

Each year in California, an estimated 5,000 to 7,000 people become infected with HIV. Of these, about one in five doesn’t even know they are infected, so are unaware that they may be infecting others. California has one of the highest HIV infection rates in the U.S. with more than 100,000 people living with HIV/AIDS, according to the California Department of Public Health Office of AIDS. Riverside County ranks sixth in the state with about 3,170 people infected or living with AIDS. Of these, nearly 2,100 live in east Riverside County.

While Gov. Schwarzenegger’s current state budget proposal calls for a crippling $80 million cut to the California Office of AIDS, a counter proposal cutting $33.5 million has been put forward for a vote in Sacramento and approval by the governor. “We continue to urge everyone to email, write, or call their state representatives to tell them that we must get ahead of the ongoing devastation of HIV and AIDS,” continued Brinkman. “Ignoring this very real public health concern by removing its funding today for care and prevention is only going to make the problem far worse tomorrow.”

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.