Nutrition and peer support for HIV+ patients

The Nutrition and Peer Support program for HIV+ patients was created to not only form a safe and welcoming environment for those afflicted by HIV, but also release the financial burden of widowed or single parents of having to cook for their children. As the war in Ukraine continues, food prices have soared, making it difficult for single mothers to support their families. 

The war in Ukraine has greatly affected food prices and chain supply across the globe. The African country of Mali has especially felt these aftershocks, as the price of food and other needs has skyrocketed, making it unaffordable for many.

According to the International Food Policy Research Group, household consumption has fallen across the board for all Malian households. This is because due to the inflation, there have been rising prices, as well as falling incomes. The research group describes the household inflation as a ‘food shock’, which has affected households across the country.

Programs such as the ongoing Nutrition and Peer Support group for HIV+ patients are greatly beneficial during this time due to the nature of the local economy, and rising prices of food. Having access to these welcoming meals lessens the financial burden for single parents that are supporting large households. By donating only $10, you would be giving an HIV+ patient their weekly meal within the program. For only $30, you would be giving a weekly meal to a mother and three children. There have been many individuals in the local Malian community that have been afflicted by both HIV+ and the food shock. Your donations are greatly appreciated at this time.

The Nutrition and Peer Support for HIV+ Patients program at Hope Center Clinic has a positive impact on both clinic patients and their families. 

Currently, global inflation is affecting countries across the world in many different ways. According to Trading Economics, the price of food in Mali has increased by 10.5%. Factors of this inflation include, but are not limited to, the international rise in prices of imported items, poor governmental fiscal management, and local currency depreciations (World Economic Forum). These factors combined create an inimical economic environment that greatly affects already struggling families. 

 The current economic climate is leading to increased food in Mali and many families cannot afford this increase. Therefore, the implementation of the Nutrition and Peer Support program is crucial for the wellbeing of these families because it alleviates the economic stress of providing a sufficient meal for an entire household. 

Not only is this ongoing program beneficial for the economic sustainability of HIV+ patients, but it also provides education,  as well as emotional support.

For just $10, you can provide one weekly meal for an HIV+ patient. For $30, you can provide a weekly meal for a mother and 3 children. For $100, 25 HIV+ patients would be able to receive a weekly meal. These donations would greatly benefit the expansion of the Nutrition and Peer Support program to help alleviate the economic and mental stress of individuals experiencing HIV.