Far too many Latinos remain unaware of their HIV positive status. HIV testing is a critical element in stopping the transmission of the HIV virus, preventing the spread of AIDS, and allowing those affected to access life-prolonging treatments.
To address this issue, the Federation's LUCES coalition, the Latino Commission on AIDS and the NYS AIDS Institute created Latino HIV Testing Month (LHTM). Observed in
July, LHTM is a focal point for Latino HIV testing activities in New York State.
HF has granted $65,000 to over 20 agencies to carry out HIV testing activities in their communities. These organizations have teamed up to test thousands of Latinos at health fairs, cultural events and community-wide forums.
End AIDS - It's in Your Hands! Remind your friends, neighbors and loved ones that testing is the only way to know if you have been affected with HIV/AIDS. To find out where testing sites are near you visit,
www.latinohivtesting.org.
Saludos! It's hard to believe that the first half of 2009 has come and gone. In our line of work - which is wonderfully rewarding but all consuming - days and seasons just seem to fly by. We have certainly had an eventful six months here at the Federation. Providing hundreds of families with home foreclosure prevention assistance, helping thousands make the transition to digital television, and beginning large-scale replication of our early childhood education and college prep parental involvement initiative. As we look forward, we realize that the second half will be just as interesting, exciting and challenging as our first half. 
