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Children’s Program
The Children’s Program at House of Ruth provides services for children both infected with and affected by HIV and AIDS. Children ages 0-17 (or enrolled in high school) are eligible for the program.

Children infected with HIV/ AIDS or who are under the care of a parent or guardian infected with HIV/ AIDS, are forced to live in a shadow of stigma and secrecy. For the children served by House of Ruth, financial stress is another harsh reality, as over 90% of client households are at or below the federal poverty level. The Children’s Program seeks to address the emotional and financial stress associated with caring for a child affected by HIV and AIDS with dignity and care.

Back to School Program (July/ August & February)
- Uniform vouchers for each school-age child
- School supplies and backpacks
- 49 children attended the Summer Day Program to prepare families for going back to school
- Spring Assistance for additional uniform assistance and school supplies
In 2009, 102 children received assistance in the spring and 168 in the fall.

Holiday Assistance Program (December)
- Children ages 0 to 11 receive gifts such as clothing and toys
- Children ages 12 to17 (or enrolled in high school) receive gift cards
- Assistance is distributed the week before Christmas
In 2009, 265 children received Holiday Assistance.

Quarterly Children’s Workshops (all year)
- Parents/ guardians & children attend together
- Facilitated by community experts, such as art therapists and nutritionists
- Focus on communication, creativity, physical & emotional health

Other Services (various)
- Social events for clients and family members (four per year)
- Collaboration with Camp Heart to Heart, a weeklong camp for children ages 5-12
- Summer Day Program at House of Ruth
- Emergency financial assistance as funding permits

We are currently looking for volunteers for our Big Brothers/Big Sisters program.  If you or someone you know is interested in participating in this program, please contact Heather Bruner.

Any questions regarding the Children’s Program at House of Ruth may be directed to Heather Bruner, Children’s Program & Data Reporting Manager: (502) 587-5080 ext. 20, hbruner@houseofruth.net.