My first 30 days — July 25, 2013
Last week I had the opportunity to join the 200 plus riders, crew and volunteers on the Red Ribbon Ride. It was an amazing way to close out my first 30 days as the new Executive Director of Clare Housing. I was deeply inspired by their dedication, compassion and perseverance as they encountered extreme heat, strong head winds, hills and even rain on the final day. I met people from as far away as New York and saw old friends who I have not seen since my days serving as Executive Director of Grace House. I heard stories of family members and friends who have passed on and words of support and encouragement for the work of Clare Housing. The Red Ribbon Ride plays a critical role for Clare Housing as we continue to provide affordable housing, supportive services and compassionate care to people living with HIV/AIDS in Minnesota. We thank you all for your support!
Since the start of the AIDS epidemic over 30 years ago we have made amazing progress that many thought would be impossible. Today, the Center for Disease Control estimates that there are approximately 1.2 M people living with HIV/AIDS in the United States. It is estimated that up to 50% of those infected are homeless or at risk of homelessness. And, despite treatment and prevention efforts there are over 50,000 new infections every year.
Here at home, our most recent data indicates that approximately 7,000 people are living with the disease today. We estimate that up to 50% of these people will, at some point have difficulty finding affordable, stable housing. As individuals become ill, they often find themselves unable to work, while at the same time face health care expenses that leave them with limited resources to pay for housing. The financial vulnerability of people living with HIV/AIDS results in a greater likelihood of living in unstable housing situations or homelessness and the inability to continue receiving the full benefits of the supportive care they need to manage their disease and keep the virus under control.
I’m honored and excited to lead the Clare Housing team. We have a strong foundation to build on, with an incredible talented and dedicated team of professionals who serve our clients each and every day with respect and compassionate care. Our mission is, and will continue to be, to provide affordable housing, supportive services and compassionate care to people living with HIV/AIDS in Minnesota. People living with HIV/AIDS who live in stable housing have better health outcomes than those who are homeless or unstably housed, they are more likely to adhere to treatment regimes, have decreased viral loads and spend fewer days in hospitals and emergency rooms. With a waiting list of over 200 people, we are working towards adding 100 units of new housing over the next three years.
I look forward to being a partner in this work, and working closely with the board, staff and community to ensure that all people living with HIV/AIDS in Minnesota have a place to call home and access to services to live a dignified life.
I welcome the opportunity to talk to our supporters and friends at any time. You can reach me at chuck.peterson@clarehousing.org. Thank you for your continued support of Clare Housing!