Expect to hear sirens tomorrow morning

NEWS RELEASE

GROUP HEALTH CENTRE

************************* November 20, 2009 - December 1 marks World AIDS Day, an annual event celebrated globally and in Sault Ste. Marie.

To acknowledge World AIDS Day [ribbon shown], local residents will hear Sault Ste. Marie Emergency Medical Services (EMS) vehicles sounding their sirens simultaneously at 10 a.m.

Moments of Silence are also being organized in schools and in local churches.

The Group Health Centre's HIV/AIDS Education and Support program staff focus on increasing awareness in HIV/AIDS, reducing discrimination faced by those infected or affected by HIV/AIDS and promoting safer lifestyles.

The HIV/AIDS Education and Support program, formerly known as the Access AIDS Network, joined the GHC’s umbrella of services earlier this year.

The program does not provide medical care.

However, day-to-day education and support to individuals infected, affected or at risk by HIV/AIDS and related issued are provided.

According to departmental head person Paul Apostolon: "Support is provided through working with individuals and families who are infected, affected or at risk by HIV/AIDS and related issues. Staff provide outreach services with the help of community partners by developing strategies on harm reduction for safer sex and intravenous drug use.”

AIDS Awareness Day marks the final day of AIDS Awareness Week held from November 24 to December 1.

The GHC's HIV/AIDS Education and Support program is based at 167 Gore Street.

A referral is not required from your health-care provider.

The program is open to the community.

For more information, please call 256-2437 or visit here.

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