45,000 dollars. That’s the amount of grant funding lost by MCATF in statewide cuts aimed at HIV/AIDS organizations.
This money, from a state HIV/AIDS prevention grant, was used to cover 100% of operating costs by MCATF as well as prevention resources.
Before the cut this grant was used to pay for rent, utilities, outreach programs and safety supplies, including condoms.
At a recent MCATF Board of Directors meeting it was revealed by David Remesch, the then treasurer and now board chairperson, that MCATF had enough funds to stay open for another 5 months.
If new funds, grant or otherwise, are not found before June MCATF could close its doors to the approximately 40-50 clients that use its services as well as the many support groups it houses.
For 17 years MCATF has been a driving force in the community, as a resource for those already HIV positive as well as helping to prevent further transmission.
MCATF has recently begun HIV testing as part of the prevention program but due to these extreme budget cuts, it has been forced to abandon that service.
Although there is a possibility for a renewal of the grant after 6 months, the likelihood is extremely slim.
Gov. Quinn’s budget which passed on July 15, 2009 already warned of budget cuts to HIV/AIDS groups, eliminating 50% of funds.
MCATF will continue to provide risk reduction counseling, comprehensive risk counseling and condom and condom use demonstrations. In addition MCATF will still be available for public speaking engagements. All groups will continue to meet at their regular times unless noted by their coordinators and new groups will be added when a need presents itself.
MCATF needs your help in fundraising, donations and even grant research. E-mail fundraising@mcatf, denise@mcatf.org, or annie@mcatf.org for further details.
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