Over one million children in Zambia have been orphaned, the majority as a result of AIDS. With 42% of the population living in extreme poverty, many families struggle to provide care for these vulnerable children. A significant number of orphans are living in households headed by grandmothers or even by other children. Most grandmothers lack knowledge about HIV and have no independent source of income, making it nearly impossible for them to meet the complex medical, emotional, and nutritional needs of their grandchildren. This program seeks to empower these grandmothers and families by equipping them with education, training, and practical tools to care for HIV-positive children while becoming more self-reliant.
The program delivers a comprehensive support package to 500 HIV-positive children, combining food, medicines, and life-saving healthcare services with education and training for their caregivers. Families receive guidance in HIV care and prevention, psycho-social counseling, health checkups, adherence monitoring, and school support, ensuring that children are not only medically stable but also able to attend school and continue their education. By giving families the knowledge and resources they need, they are empowered to take proactive steps to prevent further HIV infections within their households and communities, protect the most vulnerable members, and foster a culture of health, awareness, and resilience for future generations.
The impact of this program is measurable and transformative. Children’s health improves, as seen in gains in weight, reductions in malnutrition, lower viral loads, and increased CD4 counts. School attendance rises as children become healthier and more able to participate in learning. More women seek voluntary counseling and testing, while caregivers gain vital knowledge about HIV prevention and proper care. Open discussions about HIV within families and communities reduce stigma and discrimination, fostering understanding and compassion. As families become more capable of managing health needs independently, communities grow stronger and more resilient, building a foundation for sustainable health, empowerment, and hope for the future.
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