The Health Trust AIDS Services celebrates 20 years of service to HIV/AIDS community

Individuals with HIV/AIDS living longer but need more caring and compassionate support than ever

Campbell, California - December 1, 2007 — The Health Trust AIDS Services has two reasons to celebrate World AIDS Day on December 1 - its 20th anniversary as the largest provider of service in Santa Clara County to people with HIV/AIDS and, more importantly, the strides made in improving the quality of life of those living with the disease.

“People with AIDS are living longer and in better health,” said Frederick J. Ferrer, Chief Executive Officer of The Health Trust. “If they have the support and resources they need, they can lead full and rich lives in the community for many, many years. We are proud that The Health Trust has provided this critically-needed support for two decades, and that we continue to offer these services to the most vulnerable individuals in our region.”

In 1987 - five years after AIDS was first recognized as a serious global epidemic - only 394 residents of Santa Clara County were diagnosed with the disease, but the lack of effective medical treatment protocols meant that nearly all faced an early death. Today, there are close to 3,000 individuals in Silicon Valley who are HIV positive or living with AIDS. New drugs and more understanding about how to maintain wellness despite the chronic disease are keeping patients alive and healthier longer.

“The expectation for quality of life for people with AIDS has changed dramatically over the past two decades,” said Anna Hemmerle, Business Operations Manager for The Health Trust AIDS Services. “Since 1987, we have worked with 3,155 clients. Sadly, 755 of them passed away between 1987 and 1996 but people with HIV/AIDS are living longer now thanks to the progress made in treatment protocols. Since 1997, the number of our clients who have expired is 267, a vast change from the early years.”

What has also changed is the profile of those living with HIV/AIDS, according to Paul Hepfer, Vice President of Programs at The Health Trust. “We see more women and more ethnic diversity every year, especially in the Latino community” he said. “HIV is an opportunistic disease that is more prevalent among people who are marginalized in our society and who face tremendous disparities in health care because of lack of prevention education, access, fear, language and cultural barriers, low self esteem, and isolation.”

Many of the 700+ clients of The Health Trust AIDS Services have multiple health issues, low incomes, and family problems that complicate their ability to live with HIV/AIDS. Funded entirely by grants and donations, The Health Trust program provides a full range of services including nursing and social work case management, housing and home health assistance, food, transportation, and emergency financial help. The Neil A. Christie Living Center offers a drop-in home away from home where individuals with HIV/AIDS can find social activities and emotional support.

“The original focus of the AIDS Services program was on health care for individuals who were very sick and dying,” said Ferrer. “Now we provide a variety of services to maintain the quality of life of people with HIV/AIDS and prevent new infections. No matter how the needs of this community evolve, The Health Trust is committed to provide the critical support they need with first class services and culturally proficient effectiveness.”

For more information on AIDS Services, visit The Health Trust website at www.healthtrust.org.