Patricia Watson, Senior Staff Reporter
IN A society where discrimination and stigma against persons infected with HIV and AIDS are high, the Jamaica AIDS Support (JAS) stands tall.
Under its motto, 'Love, Care, Support', the organisation has, for more than 10 years, cared for those it was unpopular to care for. Those who the society has shunned by virtue of their HIV status or those whose lifestyles are different. This mammoth task was being done with very little money and today, there is the risk of closure.
Having recently closed down its hospice due to lack of funding, we cannot allow this beacon to go out.
As a society, we do not usually support organisations dedicated to the less fortunate. During holidays, for instance, people living in homes are given more food than they can eat. Everybody is given a treat and we all pat ourselves on the back for our good works. Throughout the year, institutions like the JAS are left to live from 'hand-to-mouth', while the rest of us wait for the next holiday to come around.
For years, the JAS with its staff of dedicated volunteers have been struggling to carry out its mandate. It has facilitated many people living with HIV to make a living through its candle and card making ventures. Its staff has travelled far and wide, uphill and downhill, in places where there are no street lights, no proper roads to give hope to those infected and affected by the infection. It has lobbied for contributions to provide food, medicine and clothing for people living with AIDS. And above all, the organisation has been a voice for PLWHA in Jamaica.
Like its founders, Howard Daly and Joseph Robinson, who in 1991, gave their utmost support without fear to a neighbour who was dying from AIDS, we also need to give to keep JAS going. The two committed themselves that no matter what they would make sure the neighbour died in dignity.
The Jamaica AIDS Support needs $1.2 million each month to stay open, let us keep the beacon shining.
Contributions can be made to NCB A/C # 351814047, pledges can also be called in to 978-2345 or via jasforlife@hotmail.com.
