Simultaneously, lack of resources from family members, means children’s ability to attain vital support services is extremely limited or non existent.  Poor health and the culture of stigmatisation associated with HIV/AIDS, further add to the difficulty families face in accessing services, so that caring for their children is an even greater burden to carry.

As government health institutions and social services struggle to cope with the demands of the pandemic, it is often community based responses that are fulfilling the critical role of providing support services to families infected and affected by HIV/AIDS.  Providing shelter, delivering psychological and social care, health care, education opportunities; community based organisations like KCH can ensure children no longer need to face the stress and trauma of diagnosis and living with HIV unsupported, unaided or alone.

A more hopeful future
As the impact of ARVs is realised, not only is extended life expectancy and quality of life becoming a reality for HIV positive people, but they are beginning to believe they can live for longer.   Therefore community based organisations servicing HIV positive people have a responsibility to encourage their clients to think about and plan for the future.  Not only this, as HIV positive people become empowered workers and hopeful role models in the community, they become community assets; providing services, support and a positive face of HIV to combat the fear and denial that surround the virus and perpetuate its silent spread.

KCH has identified this opportunity to bring about a shift in thinking by encouraging children to be educated so that they can become more skilled, empowered and mobilised to seek out a sustainable income to support themselves and their families in the longer term.