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Andhra Pradesh State AIDS Control Society Acknowledges Salesian Community
Hyderabad

Andhra Pradesh State AIDS Control Society Acknowledges Salesian Community

News written by: Fr Sudhakar M SDB

Navajeevan Bala Bhavan, Vijayawada, a Salesian community of the Province of St. Joseph, Hyderabad, received a certificate of recognition from the Andhra Pradesh State AIDS Control Society (APSACS) on December 1, World AIDS Day. This accolade acknowledges the NGO's exemplary nutrition support programs for children infected and affected by HIV/AIDS.

Since August 2021, under its Neethodu Integrated Counseling Center (NICC), Navajeevan Bala Bhavan has been tirelessly working across the slums and specific zones of Vijayawada to serve individuals and families grappling with HIV. The organization has reached 390 individuals (234 adults and 156 children) across 106 families, offering essential support to improve the quality of life.

With a holistic approach to supporting HIV-affected communities, Navajeevan Bala Bhavan focuses on nutrition, education, and moral upliftment. It provides nutritious meals to promote healthy living, organizes monthly gatherings to reduce stigma, and ensures regular volunteer home visits to assist patients with ART medication follow-ups. It offers income-generation programs such as tailoring, kirana shops, flower vending, and garment sales to empower families economically. Additionally, cultural events, competitions, outings, and educational financial aid help children overcome societal stigma and work towards a brighter future.

Though faced with critical challenges such as a lack of continuous donor support, inadequate nutrition resources, and limited societal employment opportunities for affected individuals, Navajeevan Bala Bhavan continues to make an impact through strong collaborations with government bodies, healthcare institutions, and other organizations, reducing HIV-related health issues and empowering communities.

Looking ahead, Navajeevan Bala Bhavan is committed to scaling its initiatives. Plans include expanding the volunteer base, building leadership among individuals living with HIV/AIDS, and creating greater societal awareness about HIV. The NGO also aims to sustain its nutrition programs through increased collaboration with like-minded organizations and generous support from benefactors.

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