WORLD AIDS DAY IN BOISE

This week you are encouraged to wear your red
ribbon for AIDS awareness and to know your status by get tested
for HIV.

On December 1st every
year, the world sets apart some time, a day to remember those living with HIV
and AIDS. According to the US Department of Health & Human Services 33.2
million men, women, and children are living in the world with HIV and or AIDS
today, 2.1 million have died and there were 2.5 million new diagnoses in 2007.

Idaho is not immune to the impact of
the HIV and AIDS pandemic. The Idaho Department of Health & Welfare, as of
September 2007, published that there are 948 reported children, women & men
living with HIV and AIDS in Idaho. We have had causalities as well, 406
reported deaths related to AIDS. These people are mothers, fathers,
grandparents, sons, daughters, friends, co-workers, and community leaders,
young and old.

Allies linked for the prevention
of HIV and AIDS (a.l.p.h.a.) will be hosting an annual candlelight vigil for
World AIDS Day in Boise at Anne Morrison Park (near the fountain on the
Westside of the park) at 8pm on Saturday, December 1st.Everyone
is welcome and encouraged to attend. Dress warm and bring your own candle. We
will have hot beverages and extra candles. Come out and show your support for
our HIV and AIDS community and shares the memories of our loved ones that have
past.

Allied agencies will offer Free
Rapid HIV Testing & Counseling utilizing a 20 minute test with a result for
a week. Call the following locations to schedule an appointment; appointments
are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome. Friday November 30th at El
Ada Community Action 1pm-3pm (355 N Orchard Boise 345-2820). Saturday December 1st
11am-5pm, Monday Dec 3rd 5pm-9pm, and Wednesday Dec 5th
5pm-9pm at a.l.p.h.a. (419 S 13th St Boise 424-7799). Tuesday December 4th 9am-12pm and Thursday December 6th
1pm to 4pm at HIV Services Clinic (777 N Raymond St Boise 367-6079).

For any further questions or to
get involved call the a.l.p.h.a. office Monday through Friday from 3pm to 9pm, Saturday 11am to
5pm,
Sunday 12pm to 3pm at 424-7799 or visit www.alphaidaho.org.