Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust WORLD AIDS DAY 2021 NEWSLETTER Dear HACT Friends, Donors & Partners June 2021 marked the 40th anniversary since the first cases of what later became known as AIDS were officially reported. Four decades later, over 32 million people have lost their lives to AIDS-related illnesses, over 38 million are currently living with HIV and here in SA we are still seeing over 250 000 new HIV infections every year, making World AIDS Day 2021 a sobering reminder of the devastating and far reaching impact of this disease. However, there have been many victories which demonstrate just how far we've come since those dark early days when HIV testing was still a complex process and life-saving antiretroviral treatment didn't yet exist. The history of HIV and AIDS, and both the local and international struggle to contain it, has seen both the best and worst of humanity. Stories of stigma, exclusion and discrimination are contrasted by brave and selfless leadership, community activism and compassionate care. And yet, we can and simply must do better if we are to see an end to HIV and AIDS. Here at HACT we remain committed to our mission of providing unconditional love and hope for all those impacted by HIV and AIDS. For over 31 years our team has worked tirelessly towards making our dream of an AIDS-free future for all a reality through our sustainable and community-led projects which promote healthy living whilst supporting, uplifting and empowering those most vulnerable and at risk. Over the past two years especially, our team has has to continually adapt to ensure we remain both resilient and responsive to the needs of those living in our local communities as the HIV and COVID-19 pandemics have collided. Today, as we come together to commemorate World AIDS Day 2021, we ask that you join us in uniting behind this year's theme of global solidarity, shared responsibility, together we can overcome the stigma and inequality which is preventing us from ending HIV and AIDS! With thanks and appreciation,
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