Bahay Kanlungan Drop -In Center

PAFPIcares Bahay Kanlungan Drop-in Center for people living with HIV (PLHIV) was opened in 2000 and it serves as a safe and welcoming space where individuals can access a variety of services and support. The purpose of our drop-in centers is to cater to the specific needs of PLHIV and create a supportive environment that promotes their health, well-being, and social integration. The purposes our services typically offered by our organization drop-in centers for PLHIV:

1. Supportive Environment: The drop-in center provides a non-judgmental and stigma-free environment where PLHIV can feel comfortable seeking assistance and connecting with others who share similar experiences.
2. Peer Support: Peer support programs allow PLHIV to interact with others facing similar challenges. Peer support can be invaluable for sharing experiences, providing encouragement, and building a sense of community.
3. Counseling Services: Professional counselors or trained volunteers offer individual and learning group counseling sessions to address the emotional, psychological, and social needs of PLHIV. Our counseling topics such as coping with diagnosis, managing stress, disclosure, and relationship issues, sex and sexuality particularly in the Elderly living with HIV
4. Health Education: The center provides education on HIV/AIDS, treatment options, medication adherence, prevention strategies, and managing co-occurring health conditions. Health education empowers PLHIV to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.
5. Referrals and Linkages to Care: Drop-in centers facilitate access to medical care, including HIV treatment, primary care, mental health services, and substance abuse treatment. They may also provide referrals to other community resources such as housing assistance, legal aid, livelihood and vocational training programs
6. Nutritional Support: Our drop-in centers offer nutrition counseling and food assistance programs to address the unique nutritional needs of PLHIV. Access to nutritious food can help individuals maintain their health and support the effectiveness of HIV treatment.
7. Recreational and Social Activities: The center will organize recreational activities, social events, and support groups to promote socialization, reduce isolation, and foster a sense of belonging among PLHIV.
8. Legal Assistance: Legal aid services may be available to address legal issues related to HIV/AIDS, such as discrimination, employment discrimination, and confidentiality concerns.
9. Harm Reduction Services referral: For individuals engaging in high-risk behaviors such as substance abuse or sex work, harm reduction services may be offered for referral to the appropriate agencies. This can include access to clean needles and syringes, overdose prevention education, and referrals to substance abuse treatment programs.
10. Advocacy and Empowerment: PAFPIcares Drop-in centers often engage in advocacy efforts to raise awareness about the needs and rights of PLHIV, advocate for policy changes, and promote social justice. Empowerment activities help individuals build self-esteem, develop leadership skills, and advocate for themselves and their communities.

Overall, PAFPIcares drop-in centers play a vital role in providing holistic support and services to PLHIV and affected families helping them navigate the challenges of living with HIV/AIDS and improve their quality of life.