For many of us, the holiday season is a joyous time filled with friends and family, gift giving, and holiday feasts. But isolation, stigma, poverty, and health concerns mean that the season may be anything but joyous for people impacted by HIV/AIDS. For an individual or family struggling to meet their day-to-day basic needs, the holidays can be overwhelming.

At AIDS Calgary Awareness Association we try and offer support and provide services that meet each individualistic need. We provide financial and emotional support, housing and food bank referrals, and the knowledge that our clients are not alone.

The Holiday Hamper program provides clients with a grocery card and a gift. The gift card allows clients to choose grocery items that fit their cultural, religious, and dietary needs. Around the holidays, there are often extra expenses such as gifts, insulated winter items, higher utility bills, transportation costs, etc. The Holiday Hamper program provides additional support to many of the individuals and families we serve who are living on low incomes.

This year, as the holidays approach, we ask that you please consider making a donation to the Holiday Hamper program.

On December 13th the Hampers will be distributed to ACAA clients in Calgary and Medicine Hat. Approximately 140 Hampers are expected to be given out of this year.

Those who are interested in donating or volunteering can visit our website, or contact us by email.