There has been a dark shadow cast upon people inflicted with HIV/AIDS. It’s the 21st century and an alarmingly large majority of people still don’t know that HIV cannot be spread through saliva, air, water, and physical contact. To make more matters difficult, PLHIV (People Living With HIV) are reduced to immoral and irresponsible members of society. Because of this stigma, they are pushed to live the rest of their lives in seclusion and shame.
Fortunately, there are organizations such as the Positive Action Foundation Philippines, Incorporated (PAFPI) who have been giving them support for their physical and emotional healing. Through donations and fundraisers, they have been sustaining Bahay Kanlungan, a temporary shelter for victims of the virus. Having been rejected by their own misinformed families and friends, their residents may find special holidays and occasions such as Valentine’s very distressing.
This month, a group of young citizens, decided to remind them that they are worthy of love, respect and support through Project Plus One. It’s a friendly post-Valentine’s date among PLHIV and advocates who are non-members but allies of PAFPI. They are still seeking more volunteers who are willing to share time, stories, and dinner with the residents of Bahay Kanlungan. The responsibilities include paying for their assigned dates’ meals, and sharing the provided HIV/AIDS awareness materials on social media.
The dinner will be at 6:00 pm on Saturday, February 18, 2017. It will be more like a casual hang out, and there will be live music. The advocates behind this project believe that love isn’t love if it’s not exclusive, and hope that more people see that in this season of love.Should you decide to volunteer, kindly text (Globe) 09952315852 / (Smart) 09089627031. If you’re not available on the said date, check out this website to learn about other ways you can help: www.pafpi.org
