Helping People with AIDS/HIV

While I don't think I've written much about it since reopening my blog here, I've had lots of problems with so-called AIDS service organizations in the past. Topping the list is Cascade AIDS Project (CAP) who very nearly scuttled the move to my current apartment saying "since you expect to get a refund from your prior apartment's security deposit we won't help you with your full security deposit -- ask your new landlord to wait until you get the other deposit." I really wonder what good they are doing with all that money the suck in in the name of helping People with AIDS (PWAs) and have asked everyone I know who gives to CAP to donate elsewhere.

Here's a great organization which uses the vast majority of money and items donated to help people living with HIV/AIDS -- Friends of People with AIDS Foundation (Friends of PWAs). As far as I know, they have no paid staff (and haven't). They don't require reams of paperwork to get that can of beans or new t-shirt. And they are nice, friendly, and a PWA feels like they still matter when they go there for help. They do care! They have paid for Robin's annual exam and shots for the last couple of years now. (I just have to find a ride for us.)

I ask you now, please take a moment to reach out and tell Friends of PWAs that they are on the right track. Thank them for helping people, including me. And if at all possible, give to them as you would any other tax deductible charity. They accept donations of household and personal items (much like you probably already give to Goodwill) in good condition which they then GIVE to PWAs through Tod's Corner. (They replaced my microwave with a donated, used, but good one when mine died at the start of summer.)

You can donate cash online and even set up a monthly contribution now. For other information on donating by mail or in person or volunteering, visit their webpage.

Please help the Friends of PWAs today!