Philly AIDS Walk Kicks Off Registration With New Focus
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The AIDS Fund kicked off registration for the 30th annual AIDS Walk Philly this week.
Robb Reichard is the executive director of the AIDS Fund, he said they changing their focus this year.
"We're evolving our mission."
Over the past 30 years, the group has raised more than 16 million dollars, money was used to support HIV and AIDS service organizations when funding was dry.
"There were no government funds available," he said.
Fast forward and much has changed for ASOs, so in 2017 Reichard said they will redirect their funds to the individuals who need it most.
"We will be providing emergency grant funds for the most vulnerable people living with HIV and AIDS in our region."
Grants will help pay for medical care and other support. An estimated 30,000 Philadelphians are living with HIV. Reichard said the AIDS Walk will help raise awareness, reduce stigma and money to provide support.
"We're talking about getting to zero- zero new infections, zero stigma and zero deaths because of HIV."
The AIDS Walk/Run is on October 16th on MLK Drive.
To register: click here.