March Newsletter 2024

March & September

It's time to update!

Be

and documentation

be included Give us a call to schedule your appointment Failure to update by the end of March will affect the services you receive from us.

Introducing Gulf Coast Transit District’s New Ride the Wave App

The

Ride the Wave app enables easy booking, planning, and payment for rides It provides real-time updates on vehicle location and trip details Upon completion of their ride, users are prompted to leave feedback, ensuring continuous improvement for the service, riders, and drivers.

Event Details

Date: 03/23/2024

Location: McGuire Dent Recreation Center, Galveston, TX

Registration: 9:00 am

Event Time: 10:00 am - 1:00 pm

For more information, please contact:

Contact Name: Terri Sudduth & Stephanie Waltman

Contact Email: afspgalveston@yahoo com

In recognition of National TB Testing Day Galveston County Health

District will be here on Thursday February 21st from 11am-2pm offering Free TB Testing.

• TB is a disease caused by a bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis

• The bacteria, or germ, that causes TB is spread through the air

• TB is a serious disease that if untreated can cause a person to become very sick or even die

• TB most commonly affects the lungs but can be found Anywhere in the body including:

~ Bones

~ Spine

~ Brain

~ Intestines

~ Liver

~ Kidneys

~ Heart

How was your childhood?

Growing up in Hitchcock, Texas, I had a wonderful childhood surrounded by both my parents and four siblings.

How long have you been HIV-positive?

Since 1989, being diagnosed with HIV was an incredibly challenging experience worldwide. Even now, thinking about it I have strong emotions.

How did you know you had HIV?

I experienced severe pain on one side of my body, which eventually drove me to the emergency room. The doctor inquired about my sexual activity, specifically whether I was sexually active with men. I disclosed that I identify as bisexual. To my shock, the doctor informed me that I had pneumonia and tested positive for HIV. The weight of this revelation settled heavily upon me, and I realized I couldn’t confide in anyone about it.

What’s something you wish people understood about HIV?

U=U.

Definition: U=U stands for Undetectable=Untransmittable. When someone with HIV consistently achieves and maintains an undetectable viral load (the amount of HIV in their blood) by taking antiretroviral therapy (ART) daily as prescribed, they cannot sexually transmit the virus to others.

What’s one small action people can take to help people living with HIV?

Destigmatize people living with HIV. We can contribute to a world where people living with HIV are treated with compassion and respect.

What’s something you wish you had known before you were diagnosed with HIV?

I wish I had known about the HIV status of those I was getting into relationships with, especially if they were already HIV-positive. Open communication and awareness play a crucial role in preventing the spread of HIV and reducing stigma.

Who are your biggest advocates?

One day, during a Lyft ride, I encountered an extraordinary woman. Our delightful conversation blossomed into a cherished friendship. Remarkably, she has never once asked me to pay for my rides. But it was during our movie outing that something truly magical happened. For the first time in my life, I could fully enjoy a film because she patiently read me the subtitles. As a blind man, this act of kindness touched my heart profoundly. I am immensely grateful to call her my friend.

How do you practice self-care?

Always have a goal. It gives me purpose, motivation, and a sense of achievement.

How can others show their support for those living with HIV?

Treat us the same as everyone else.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

My dream is to be on a TV series.

How has ACCT helped you in you journey?

ACCT has provided us with community and consistency. It assures us that we have a secure space to interact during client lunches. I deeply appreciate everything you’ve done for me and others.

What are other programs you would like to see from us?

Physical exercise classes.

ShareYourJourney

If you are interested in telling your story, “The Client Journal”, is located under the “News and Events” tab We’ve established two distinct avenues for clients to share their stories: an online submission form and the option to schedule an in-person interview

Recognizing the value of privacy and respecting our clients’ personal boundaries, we provide an option for clients to remain anonymous, creating a secure and comfortable environment for story sharing

Pantry Dates

Do you attend our weekly lunches and have special dietary needs?

If you would like to discuss special dietry accommodations , Please contact Travis Newman at 409-763-2437

Monday 9am-7pm

Tues-Thursday 9am-5pm

Friday 9am-Noon

Walk-in or schedule an appointment

Do you want to get on PrEP?

(409) 763-2437

PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is medicine taken to prevent acquiring HIV Most insurance plans and Medicaid programs cover the cost of PrEP

If you are uninsured, we can help you get on PrEP for Free/Low Cost.

If you are interested in attending a meeting, please email us at

transgalveston@gmail.com

Transportation Appointments

Please have your appointment details available when contacting the agency to request transportation We are unable to schedule transportation services without an copy of your appointment details. A 48-hour advance notice is required for all requests Matagorda and Brazoria clients needing medical transportation, please try to schedule your appointments late morning or early afternoon Our staff understands that life can present unexpected challenges from time to time, and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.

Pantry Delivery Program

We are accepting applications for the Pantry Delivery Program! This program was created to provide access to pantry services to our clients with significant barriers to access ACCT for monthly pantry services. Pick up an application at our campus or follow the link below.

. The full Pantry Delivery Program launched in November, serving nearly 30 of our most in need clients. A waitlist of eligible clients will be maintained.

Client Lunch

March 7: ACCT

March 14: Barbara Williams

March 21: GOFM

March 28: ACCT

*Subject to change

ACCT is always looking for volunteers to sponsor a Client Lunch If you would like to help with the Food Pantry, and for all other volunteer opportunities please contact Travis Newman at (409)763.2437, or by e-mail tnewman@accttexas.org

Homemade Pizza Pockets

Recipes

Easy Yougurt Bark

Ingredients:

6 Whole Wheat Tortillas

1/2 Cup Low Sodium Tomato Sauce

1/2 Cup Low-Fat Cheese

Your Choice of toppings!

Example: Bell Pepper, Spinach, Jalapenos, Chicken, etc..,

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees

2

1 Lay out tortillas and spread a tablespoon of sauce in the center of each.

Top with a tablespoon of cheese and your choice of toppings

3 Brush the edges with a small amount of water. Fold the tortilla from all sides towards the center.

5

4 Arrange on parchment paper-lined baking sheet and brush the top with a small amount of olive oil

6.

Bake for 18-22 minutes or until pizza pockets are golden brown.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt

2 tbsp cream cheese (optional)

1/2 cup strawberries, sliced lengthwise handful raspberries or blueberries

1 tsp vanilla

1 1/2 Tbsp honey

3 Tbsp coconut flakes

Directions:

2

1 Line a small baking pan with parchment paper and spread the yogurt mixture inside

3

4

Mix the cream cheese, yogurt, honey and vanilla using whisk, a blender or a food processor Stir in 1 Tbsp coconut flakes

Spread out the sliced berries over the yogurt and sprinkle some coconut flakes

Freeze for at least 1 hour, or until firm, cut in pieces and enjoy!