CONTACT: Mariah McGough, mariah@vocal-ny.org

LAWMAKERS AND ADVOCATES CALL FOR STATEWIDE RENTAL ASSISTANCE FOR HIV+ NEW YORKERS ON WORLD AIDS DAYS

Folks Gathered at the Monroe County Clerk’s Office to Call for Funding for Rest of State AIDS Housing

ROCHESTER, N.Y — Today, on World AIDS Day, lawmakers joined advocates in calling for statewide rental assistance for people living with HIV/AIDS across the state — not just in NYC. In the midst of our housing crisis, people living with HIV are poised to bear the brunt of this crisis, despite housing being a proven strategy for HIV prevention and treatment.

“As we observe World AIDS Day, it is necessary for us to remember the role housing plays in the treatment of HIV. Every New Yorker living with HIV who is experiencing homelessness or housing instability should have equal access to safe, stable housing which is a key determinant of effective HIV health outcomes and is necessary to reduce transmission of HIV,” said Assemblymember Harry B. Bronson. “Housing is critical to address the stark and persistent HIV health inequalities that prevent us from ending the HIV epidemic in every community. It is about time that, regardless of zip code, every individual who is living with HIV will have housing, and I believe this year we can and will pass Rest of State!”

“Without Rest of State AIDS Housing, our people, people living with HIV/AIDS, will continue to struggle, and their health will decline,” said Tracie Adams, VOCAL-NY Leader. “It is a matter of life and death. This is why it is absolutely critical that Governor Hochul implements ROSAH immediately.” 

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