Press Release

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November 28, 2007

In this time of economic challenges, there's good news for Contra Costa residents who are HIV positive. They can get financial help for small expenses that aren't covered by Medi-Cal and other sources.

The Contra Costa Health Services' AIDS program funds available from a $25,000 grant from the Genard AIDS Foundation to pay for dental care assistance; insurance partnership fees and premium costs; small items not covered by Medi-Cal; practical support items; and other special needs for individuals. Grant assistance is limited to $1,000.

"Most of our funds to serve people with HIV/AIDS come from the federal Ryan White Act, which has restrictions on what we can pay for. In addition to the restrictions, we just don't have enough funding to meet all the need. The Genard funds will help fill that gap", said AIDS Program Director Christine Leivermann.

According to Leivermann, individuals must reside in Contra Costa County and be receiving HIV medical care to qualify for the grants. The program does not plan on limiting access to funds to low-income individuals, but will need to verify that no other funding source will pay for the service. Proof of HIV diagnosis will be required as part of the application process.

Contra Costa residents enrolled in the Ryan White service delivery system should access these funds through their HIV case manager. Individuals not enrolled in Ryan White services can contact the AIDS Program Intake Coordinator at 925-313-6781 to learn more about the Genard Foundation and other assistance.

"We hope to serve not only those who are currently receiving Ryan White Program support but also to reach out more broadly into the community to meet other unmet needs," said Carla Goad, Education and Services Supervisor for the AIDS Program.

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