Business Wire - March 3, 2000

AIDS is the leading cause of death among African American men ages 25-49 in the United States, and is the second leading cause of death for African American women in that age group. According to state Health Officer Dr. Maxine Hayes, "The numbers are shocking. They are alarmingly disproportionate and we need to take actions to change that."

Today, the state Department of Health's office of HIV Prevention and Education Services is announcing the African American Faith Community HIV Prevention Initiative. The goal is to increase knowledge in the African American community about HIV and AIDS, strengthen the community's capacity for HIV prevention, and identify community members to participate in the state and local planning process. As part of this initiative, the department will fund community organizations that plan to help meet these goals.

The Health Department is conducting a competitive request for proposals from community-based and faith organizations with $50,000 in one-time funding for the project from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The department is funding the project based on the recommendations of a community advisory group.

Traditionally, religion and churches have played a pivotal role in the lives of African American communities. According to Dr. Hayes, "It's time that we reach out and support these types of partners in the community. Churches and religious organizations are uniquely positioned to take the lead in educating their members about HIV prevention and participating with our state and local planning groups to determine how funds should be spent in the African-American communities."

Given the disproportionate number of cases in the African American community, Dr Hayes says that now is the time for the faith community to be given opportunities to act. "All over the nation, communities of faith are acknowledging that AIDS is a problem in their families, their neighborhoods, their religious community. Many have taken action already by educating their members, providing care to the sick and compassion to those who have lost mothers, fathers, and children to this disease."

Community-based non-profit agencies, including churches, may apply for this funding. The grant is for one year. Letters of intent to apply are due to HIV Prevention Services by March 20, with the final proposals due April 5.

For more information, contact Laurie James in HIV Prevention and Education Services at 360/236-3487.

CONTACT: Washington Dept. of Health, Olympia HIV Prevention and Education Services Laurie James, 360/236-3487 or Office of Communications Tim Church, 360/236-4077 http://www.doh.wa.gov
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