Health Department observes HIV Awareness Month

During the month of June 2014, the Department of Health, in conjunction with the charity ‘Supportive Therapy for AIDS persons and their Relatives’ (STAR), will be observing HIV Awareness Month. This year, their theme is “Getting to Zero: Zero New Infections, Zero Discrimination, Zero AIDS Related Deaths”.

For the month of June the Department of Health is inviting Bermuda’s bakeries and cafés to partner in their efforts to raise awareness for HIV/AIDS by taking part in the initiative, “Rock Red for a Sweeter Life”.  As red is the symbol of HIV/AIDS awareness and demonstrates support of those living with HIV/AIDS, the Department of Health asks that these businesses create a red dessert to sell, with part proceeds to be donated to STAR. A public forum will take place on Tuesday, June 24^th featuring Marvelyn Brown, an HIV-positive guest speaker from the United States (www.marvelynbrown.com), STAR, and Bermuda’s leading professionals in HIV/AIDS patient care. This will be an opportunity for the red dessert creations to be showcased to Bermuda!

Other events planned for the observance include HIV Testing Day on June 27^th.

“As we press toward our collective goal of an AIDS-free generation in Bermuda, it is important that our community rallies together to continue the progress made by HIV/ AIDS awareness and prevention initiatives,” said the Acting Director of Health David Kendell. “For Bermudian families that have been affected by HIV/AIDS, STAR has been instrumental in providing education, counseling, housing, and support for over 25 years.”

If your business is interested in taking part in the Rock Red for a Sweeter Life initiative, please contact Dy-Juan DeRoza at 278-6505 or [email protected] for additional information. The Department of Health wishes to remind the public that desserts should be enjoyed only in moderation.