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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

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.