I am reaching out today with urgency and compassion regarding the growing HIV crisis affecting homeless individuals, veterans, men and women involved in survival sex work, and vulnerable communities throughout the state of Iowa.

Due to recent cuts in HIV education and prevention funding under the current administration, many organizations and outreach workers are struggling to meet the increasing needs of people living with HIV. Every day on the streets, I encounter HIV-positive individuals who are homeless, without medication support, transportation, food, hygiene supplies, or even someone to advocate for them.

I am personally witnessing an increase in HIV-positive homeless veterans, individuals engaged in prostitution for survival, and people who have fallen completely through the cracks of the system. Many are asking for help, resources, testing assistance, prevention education, and basic human support.

Adding to this crisis is the recent lawsuit filed by the State of Iowa involving NuCara Pharmacy and millions of dollars connected to HIV medication and prevention funding. According to public reports, the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services alleges that more than $22 million connected to the HIV medication assistance program was not properly returned to the state for reinvestment into HIV care and prevention services. (KCCI (https://www.kcci.com/article/nucara-pharmacy-pleasant-hill-iowa-lawsuit-hiv-medication-funds/70739375?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

At a time when HIV services are already stretched thin, situations like this create even more fear and uncertainty for vulnerable people who rely on these programs to survive.

Our startup 501(c)(3) organization is working to step into that gap by providing outreach, education, prevention services, resource navigation, emergency assistance, and compassionate support to those most at risk and often forgotten.

At this time, we are asking for help in any form possible. Financial donations, hygiene products, testing supplies, clothing, food support, volunteer assistance, community partnerships, and sponsorships are all deeply needed. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us reach another person living on the streets and struggling with HIV.

The need in Iowa is real, and it is growing rapidly. We cannot turn our backs on these individuals simply because funding has been reduced or programs are in crisis. Lives are depending on community action and compassion.

If you can find it in your heart to support our mission and help us continue serving HIV-positive individuals experiencing homelessness and hardship throughout Iowa, we would sincerely appreciate your support.

Thank you for your time, compassion, and consideration.