Illinois: Governor Grants $2.5 Million to HIV/AIDS Group

Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich has announced $2.55 million in grants to 17 community-based HIV/AIDS housing organizations statewide. The funds will be used to provide lodging and meals to residents; for rehabilitation and facility repairs; and for supportive services such as case management, mental health counseling, and substance abuse treatment.

Blagojevich spokesperson Justin DeJong said the amount granted this year is $125,000 more than last year. The Illinois Department of Public Health has awarded the federal HUD Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS grants since 1996.

"People fighting HIV/AIDS shouldn't have to make a choice between being able to afford the medications they need, or being able to pay for basic living expenses like rent and food," Blagojevich said. "These grants are one more way in which we're helping make sure that those living with HIV/AIDS have a stable living environment in which to better fight this disease."

Chicago House is one of the grant recipients; its CEO, the Rev. Stan Sloane said, "According to a recent study, people who are not properly housed are 16 times more likely to have HIV/AIDS. The need for HIV/AIDS housing continues to skyrocket, and this grant from the Illinois Department of Public Health will help Chicago House reduce that need in the City of Chicago."

Other grant recipients include AIDS Care (Chicago), Jo Ray House (Chicago), Phoenix Center (Springfield), Bethany Place (Belleville), The Children's Place Association (Chicago), and Vision House (Chicago).

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