This week on The Local Take I speak with AID Atlanta one of the oldest nonprofits in our community working to prevent the spread of the HIV Virus that left untreated results in a medical diagnosis of AIDS. Even though we’ve lived with this epidemic for several years the number of positive diagnoses continues to rise in every age group. An unfortunate intersection between the HIV-positive community and the ongoing housing challenge in Atlanta is a lack of affordable housing options Stable housing has been a major issue facing many people with HIV since the beginning of the epidemic in the Eighties.
Nicole Roebuck executive director of AID Atlanta joins us to discuss a recent grant from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development to support housing needs in our community.
I asked Roebuck to tell us about the history of AID Atlanta she speaks about the organization serving our community for 42 years. They have been in the fight since the beginning of the crisis which is now at epidemic levels in our community.
Before understanding the transmission of the disease many with the diagnosis were treated unfairly where housing was concerned and unfortunately, this is still true. Housing is a challenge for every demographic, but for people with an HIV/AIDS diagnosis, it is a critical challenge.
HUD the Department of Housing and Urban Development has provided AID Atlanta with 2.5 million in funding to assist with housing. Roebuck mentions an innovative twist: the program will include workforce development and home ownership outcomes. This provides a better solution to help with housing and build a legacy.
Roebuck shares the services available to the community at their location 1438 West Peachtree Street where there is free parking, testing, and pharmaceuticals. They are open from 8AM - 3 PM.
For more information on AID Atlanta
For more information on the HUD HIV/AIDS program