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Imagine
being a 10-year-old child infected with AIDS.
Now imagine being a 10-year-old child infected with AIDS, who has
just lost a parent, a month before Christmas.
This scenario is an example of the everyday harsh realities that
children infected with/affected by HIV/AIDS face. House of Ruth
provides services to over 200 children every year. As part of its
comprehensive program, the Children's Fund enables House
of Ruth to reach these vulnerable individuals.
Assistance is provided by the Children's Fund in the following areas:
- Expressive Therapy
Unlike adults, children often struggle
with expressing their feelings. Expressive therapy allows children
to vent their feelings of loss, anger, loneliness and confusion
through various art projects, including painting and drawing.
- Back-to-school
It is important for children to feel like they fit in. Having
new school supplies and uniforms can help a child feel more confident,
while facing the challenges of a new school year. However, these
necessities can add up to over $200 per child, per year. This
fund helps lighten the burden of parents, while adequately preparing
the children.
- Summer Camp
Camp provides a welcome diversion for children who have been infected
with/affected by HIV/AIDS, but most families are unable to afford
the $500 fee per child. Every year, through the Children's Fund,
House of Ruth is able to provide day camp to a number of children
who ordinarily would not be able to experience it.
- Celebrations
Holidays and birthdays can be extremely
difficult times for children who have recently suffered the loss
of a parent or who have parents who are too sick to celebrate
these special occasions. House of Ruth hosts several events throughout
the year, which enable children to enjoy these special times with
their families and friends.
- Burial Assistance
Anyone who has lost a loved one knows
how difficult it can be to let go. For families who can't
afford a funeral, it is unlikely that children have an opportunity
to say good-bye to their loved ones. Burial assistance pays to
have a viewing of a deceased parent, which helps the surviving
minor children obtain closure.
- Guardianship Issues/Fees
A goal of House of Ruth is to
help families stay together as long as possible. This fund helps
pay for counseling and court fees regarding issues such as guardianship.
A House of Ruth goal is to provide a smooth transition for a child
upon the death of a parent.
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