Chicago, IL — On World AIDS Day, Association House of Chicago launched the "Know Your Status Project", an HIV outreach program that includes a mobile HIV testing van, education materials, and prevention strategies that target identified high-risk areas in Chicago.
The mobile testing unit seeks hard to reach residents to provide one-minute HIV testing, and immediate linkages to care for those who test positive. "We often find that those in the most need of our services do not always reach out for our help. Being able to meet individuals where they are to provide HIV testing will not only make the community safer, it could potentially connect individuals to other life-enhancing services that could impact their future in a positive way," said Harriet Sadauskas, President of Association House of Chicago.
The unit is available as late as midnight each day to ensure residents are reached when they are likely to be active. Coffee, snacks, and other incentives such as hygiene and personal care products are available create a comfortable atmosphere and encourage individuals to participate in HIV testing. Participants will also be linked to other essential services provided by Association House, such as pre-employment training programs substance use counseling, benefits application assistance, as well as other services through partnerships with community organizations.
Follow the project on Facebook at www.facebook.com/KnowYourStatusAHC/ .
Association House of Chicago is a non-profit organization offering human services programs that address both immediate and personal development needs. Based in Greater Humboldt Park, Association House work with a multicultural, largely Latino and African-American population of all ages in Chicago's under-served neighborhoods. Association House offers immediate assistance and helps participants achieve independence through programs across five service areas: Community Services, from basic needs to adult education and computer and pre-employment training; Behavioral Health offering support and mental health services; Child Welfare; Prevention & Education Development programs, including health and nutrition education; El Cuarto Año high school, which offers support to remove barriers for students seeking a second chance to earn their diploma. These bilingual, evidence-based programs, conducted by seasoned staff in a caring, welcoming environment, provide a cohesive safety net for more than 20,000 Chicagoans each year. Find out more at www.associationhouse.org .
