Community Care in Kenya
November 16, 2007, —
By Debbie DeVoeCare and treatment for people living with HIV is improving across the globe. This year, Catholic Relief Services is providing HIV services to those most in need in 52 countries, directly serving more than 4 million people. CRS is also helping poor people gain access to antiretroviral medications and services, primarily through AIDSRelief — a five-partner consortium led by CRS and funded through the U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief.
Key to AIDSRelief's success is its community-based approach. The consortium trains nurses, counselors and community volunteers to check in on clients, confirm drugs are being taken correctly and make sure community members living with HIV are receiving the care and support they need. This personal care improves patient health, reduces stigma and discrimination in communities served, and gives clients living with HIV the medical and emotional support they need to thrive. All photos by Debbie DeVoe/CRS
Read more about how community nurses, volunteers and counselors are bringing care and support right into the homes of people in need living with HIV.
Debbie DeVoe is CRS' regional information officer for East Africa. She is based in Nairobi and recently joined partner staff on visits to client homes in Mombasa, Kenya.
