DISHA had big news this month with the confirmation of a three-year grant from the Oak Foundation.  The grant will fully cover DISHA’s activities (with the stipulation that DISHA also raise a certain amount from outside sources) and will allow DISHA to expand services and the staff. The grant came at the perfect time, as DISHA was going through a rough phase under the current economic climate. Many aspects of the programme were suffering due to lack of funds. The news was received with great jubilation from all our staff and a “happy dance,” from our key fundraiser Rujuta who was working on the grant proposal.  As a result of this grant, DISHA will be able to continue with the crucial work of making Tadiwala Road and Ramtekdi model communities in the battle against HIV/AIDS. Also, DISHA will be able to host the much loved and needed “Celebration of Life,” on World AIDS Day this year.  Some new fieldworkers will be hired to form a complete team to execute this project.

DISHA held an awareness session and lunch with 12 people from the MSM community (men who have sex with men). Many MSM face banishment from the community - people refusing to talk to, sit near, or touch them. DISHA has always made an effort to embrace the marginalized and work to educate and support those who are at higher risk for HIV transmission. While the turn-out was lower than expected, the response was tremendous. The twelve participants vowed that with our support, they will continue to participate in and be an active part of DISHA’s work, attending bi-monthly meetings to discuss pertinent issues to their community and hopefully expanding our reach within it.

103 HIV tests were given; 3800 condoms were distributed; 7 clients improved their weight; 4 increased their CD4 count; 68 clients were treated for Opportunistic Infections; 1 client passed away from OI’s.