MEDIA ADVISORY
Marking 'World AIDS Day' In Sault Ste. Marie

November 30th, 2009 -  December 1st marks World AIDS Day, an annual event celebrated globally and in Sault Ste. Marie.

To acknowledge World AIDS Day, local residents will hear Sault Ste. Marie emergency medical services (EMS) vehicles sounding their sirens simultaneously at 10 AM.

Moments of silence are also being organized in schools and in local churches.

Group Health Centre's (GHC) HIV/AIDS Education and Support Program staff focuses on increasing awareness of HIV/AIDS, reduce discrimination faced by those infected or affected by HIV/AIDS, and to promote safer lifestyles.

The HIV/AIDS Education and Support Program, formerly known as the Access AIDS Network joined GHC's umbrella of services earlier this year. The program does not provide medical care however day-to-day education and support to individuals infected, affected or at risk by HIV/AIDS and related issues are provided.

According to department head Paul Apostolon, "Support is provided through working with individuals and families who are infected, affected or at risk by HIV/AIDS and related issues.Staff provide outreach services with the help of community partners by developing strategies on harm reduction for safer sex and intravenous drug use."

AIDS Awareness Day marks the final day of 'AIDS Awareness Week' held from November 24th to December 1st.

GHC'S HIV AIDS Education and Support Program is based at 167 Gore Street.

A referral is not required from your health care provider. The program is open to the community. For more information, please call 256-2437 or visit: www.ghc.on.ca

-30-

For more information, please contact: Elizabeth Bodnar, Sr. Manager, Corporate Relations 705-759-5529