Awareness-Raising On HIV/AIDS

In the framework Churches’ Response to HIV Pandemic, currently four projects are being implemented by the clergy of Armenian Apostolic Church in collaboration with the specialist from “Real World, Real People” NGO. The projects are being conducted in the following regions of Armenia: Gegharkunik, Aragatsotn, Talin and Lori, and are mainly focusing on the settlements with high level of migration, institutions of higher education, armies, orphanages and prisons.
One of the project meetings took place in Sarukhan village of Gavar District, Gegharkunik Region, which has one of the highest prevalence of HIV cases in the region, due to the high level of labor migration to Russia. The meeting aimed to raise the awareness of the staff of the medical center of the village on HIV/AIDS.
Considering the availability of People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in the village, the issue was of great importances for the staff members who are dealing with PLWHA in their everyday life. The meeting led to building capacities of the staff members on HIV/AIDS, updating their information on HIV treatment and possibilities for volunteer counseling. It also led to reduction of stigma towards PLWHA and initiating collaboration with the clergy of the Gegharkunik Diocese who will systematically visit the village and the PLWHA, assist them in their major needs.