The Hobson City HIV Clinic has received two Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration grants totaling $3 million to reach out to young adults at risk of HIV and substance abuse.
The grants will target minorities and women at risk, using HIV testing and counseling, and evidence-based interventions designed to reduce risky sexual behavior and substance abuse.
The Vortex Project will be carried out in collaboration with Gadsden State Community College, Jacksonville State University, and with local black colleges and universities, including Talladega College.
"These strategies will help to narrow the awareness deficit, especially among young people. And having a physical presence on campus is the best way to start," said Julie Hope, Hobson's director of education/outreach.
The Revolution Project will target young adults, providing a drop-in center for prevention services, individual counseling, increased HIV testing, and community outreach. Organizers hope to be able to move quickly to link those who test positive with medical care and support services such as case management, housing, and substance abuse prevention and treatment programs.
One goal of the prevention component, the Vortex Project, is to reach people who have become blasé about the risk of HIV transmission.
"We hear from a lot of young people who aren't worried because of the medicines and treatments available. Some even think AIDS has been cured. They couldn't be more wrong," Hope said.
The clinic serves 14 counties spread over 9,000 square miles. The eight counties surrounding Anniston - Calhoun, Chambers, Clay, Cleburne, Coosa, Randolph, Tallapoosa, and Talladega - have reported a cumulative 830 cases of HIV/AIDS. The largest single number is found in Calhoun, with 298 reported cases.
10/15/10
ALABAMA: Hobson City HIV Clinic Awarded $3 Million Education Grant
Source: Anniston Star (10.12.10):: Brett Buckner; Courtesy of the CDC National Center for HIV, STD, and TB Prevention