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For full details of our selection criteria and grant application guidelines click here, and for our Grant Application Form document here.
Our principal aim is to fund the delivery of ARVs to named individuals. We typically work with doctors on the ground who have patients in need of ARVs but who have no other means of accessing them. Once these medicines become available from other organizations, we then ensure the successful transfer of AA beneficiaries onto these larger schemes. This has already occurred in the RSA and in Lesotho and is in the process of happening in parts of India. We then seek out additional patients who are still not being covered by the larger ARV providers.
We work with approved doctors who can demonstrate their suitable training, relevant experience and adequate support structure. This should ideally include counsellors, educators, nurses, outreach workers and administrative support. Once approved, such doctor-lead medical practices are invited to make an application to AA for funding support for a specific number of named individuals who meet our criteria using the documents referred to above.
The ARVs are purchased from generic manufacturers at wholesale prices - although occasionally they have been donated by organizations such as CHAI - the Clinton HIV AIDS Initiative. The vast majority who access 'first line' ARVs and effective HIV treatment, quickly regain their health and find themselves able to control the destructive impact of the HIV virus. However, in around 5% of cases, patients may need to move onto 'second line' ARVs. These are still very expensive and require much more complex treatment regimens. AA do not fund these drugs.
AA Trustees try to visit each of their Grantees annually. We check how our money is spent and strengthen our rapport with both medical teams and beneficiaries. We follow with interest how our beneficiaries progress with their treatment and how they and their families are faring in general. We strongly encourage them to give something relevant back to their communities as "payment in kind" for the free life saving medication they receive from Aids Ark us. We are always hugely moved by the love and gratitude they show us. |
