HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. HIV is a sexually transmitted virus spread through certain body fluids that attacks the body’s immune system, specifically the CD4 cells, often called T cells. Over time, HIV can destroy so many of these cells that the body can’t fight off infections and disease. These special cells help the immune system fight off infections. Untreated, HIV reduces the number of CD4 cells (T cells) in the body. This damage to the immune system makes it harder and harder for the body to fight off infections and some other diseases. Opportunistic infections or cancers take advantage of a very weak immune system and signal that the person has AIDS. AIDS stands for Acquired Immune Definciency Syndrome. AIDS is the most severe phase of HIV infection. People with AIDS have such badly damaged immune systems that they get an increasing number of severe illnesses, called opportunistic illnesses.

In 2017, African Americans accounted for 43% of HIV diagnoses in the United States. As we engage with the African American comminity, Rapha House endeavors to be an effective ministry of restoration for people of color, as well as ALL individuals infected with HIV/AIDS. We endeavor to provide emotional, spiritual, and motivational support not only to individuals infected with HIV but also to their family members and friends. We will endeavor to assist clients with the concrete needs of transportation to and from appointments, agency referrals, food and housing as well as their emotional need for spiritual guidance and support. We will endeavor to develop appropriate educational materials for the community and develop HIV support groups as well as HIV awareness groups. STRICT CONFIDENTIALITY is assured for all participants.

• HIV Education & Prevention                               
• Case Management
• Food Pantry
  (Check back for new distribution times)
• Community Events
• Support Groups
• HIV Testing

Taking a stand in the community to help fight the pandemic against HIV/AIDS. For More Information on Rapha House contact us at corchurch@aol.com .

OUTREACH SUMMARY

(Small steps, HUGE impact...but with your help we can make BIGGER steps...)

2021-2024 Initiatives:

• Monthly financial contributions to AIDS Foundation Houston .... AIDS Foundation Houston (aidshelp.org)
   
• Monthly financial contributions to Joni & Friends; Wheels for the World... Joni and Friends | Sharing Hope Through Hardship
• Outreach support to the homeless (care packages) in colaboration with The Beacon| Homeless Services| Houston (beaconhomeless.org)