Health Data Reports More Than 18,000 Broward Residents Infected with HIV

(as of 12/31/2008).

   Despite aggressive prevention efforts, the numbers of newly diagnosed cases of HIV or AIDS continue to increase in our community.  According to the Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta, Florida ranks among the top three states with the highest numbers of HIV infection in the country.  The newly released Florida Department of Health's Year End Report for 2008 reveals that nearly 100,000 Florida residents are presumed living with HIV or AIDS and almost 18,000 residents of Broward County have tested positive for the virus.

The Need is Great, the Workers Few....

   While the need for services to people living with HIV continues to rise at a steady rate, the number of AIDS Service Organizations in our County has seen decline.  Our Broward HIV Ministry has experienced the largest one year growth in the number of people served in our 16 year history.  Care for the terminally ill, the newly diagnosed, along with case management and emergency financial assistance is at an all time high.

Setting Goals for the Future....

   Our clients come from all walks of life. Each is encouraged to set goals to improve social inter-action, increase friendships and strengthen coping skills. 

   Our Care Team Ministry volunteers work to address motivation for recovery by reinforcing healthy living patterns, medication adherence and improved socialization.

   Most importantly, we all come together as a team impacted by the lives we touch and the lasting friendships we make.  We are friends, companions and helpmates to our neighbors in Broward County living with HIV. 

What can we do to help you? 

Please Contact:

Volunteer Friendship Ministry - Broward
Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Miami

Norman Embree, Program Coordinator
1503 NE 26th Street
Wilton Manors Florida 33305
(954) 630-9793

e-mail: nembree@ccadm.org

Visit Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Miami website:  www.ccadm.org