September, 2013—Namutebi, a 32-year-old mother of four, had a bad cough and high fever. The young woman knew that she was HIV positive, but had avoided taking the medication she desperately needed for fear of social stigma.
Namutebi is one of countless vulnerable people struggling against sickness and poverty in the Kalangala District in Uganda. On the district’s 84 islands, scattered across Lake Victoria, between 20 and 30 per cent of their estimated 46,500 inhabitants are infected with HIV.
That’s why Samaritan’s Purse is partnering with local churches in this region to help. Already, we’ve equipped more than 600 individuals through our HIV Church Mobilization Program—thanks to the prayers and financial support of Canadians like you.
From helping people undergo HIV testing and obtain medication, to providing relational and financial support, we are identifying HIV-related needs and helping lessen the devastating effects of the disease in the Kalangala District.
One group of Christians equipped by Samaritan’s Purse visited Namutebi’s home. They provided her with counseling, food, and emotional support. Their love and the Gospel transformed her life that day—and groups like theirs have previously transformed more than 100 communities across northern Uganda, representing almost 2,000 families affected by HIV.
Today, Namutebi takes medication regularly and her health has greatly improved. And as a result of Christians’ support, she is also connected with a local church.
With a smile, Namutebi said “I would like to thank Samaritan’s Purse for the great work they are doing for the vulnerable families in Kalangala. With their support and counseling, I am no longer as worried about my [HIV] status as I used to be.”
A similar project in Liberia is also mobilizing believers to help lift HIV/AIDS sufferers out of physical, emotional, and spiritual despair. Please join us. Your prayers and financial support will empower local churches to reach out to those in need in Jesus’ name.
Working tirelessly to meet the physical and spiritual needs in their communities, many local churches around the world are a source of help, comfort, and support. Your gift will allow Samaritan's Purse to help the international church continue to be a tangible model of Christ's love.