HIV/AIDS Program

Objective

To raise awareness about HIV/AIDS among street children and their families; to care for infected children and family members; and to support the social integration of orphaned children.

Activities

An awareness/education program is integrated within all Mith Samlanh programs, providing information and material allowing children to protect themselves from HIV/AIDS and STDs. Youth living and/or working on the streets are trained as peer educators (Safety Agents) to provide information and condoms to their friends and relatives. As a high number of street children are infected with HIV, a special team provides medical and emotional support to them and their families. Children receive on-going medical supervision, including access to Anti-retroviral (ARV) treatment when required.

 

Children affected by HIV/AIDS are identified on the streets, in the squatter areas and in hospitals. Children and families are supported to prevent them from being pushed onto the streets because of their illness. Children who are orphaned are referred to foster care families or other organizations. A memory book is being designed for children to complete with their parents to ensure family tracing and memories can be retained.