Aliveness Project is proud to announce that we have been awarded a $200,000 grant from the Medica Foundation through their Strategic Initiatives program. This transformational investment will allow us to bring HIV prevention and care directly to our unhoused neighbors, expanding access to lifesaving services for those who need them most.
“This grant will give us the opportunity to target the highest at-risk populations, connecting them to care and helping to decrease new HIV infections in Minnesota. About 14% of all new HIV infections are among people who use drugs, and this innovative approach will help us reach those communities with the prevention and treatment services they deserve. Thank you, Medica Foundation!” said Matthew Hartle, Medical Director at Aliveness Project.
This innovative expansion will integrate clinical services into our harm reduction outreach, addressing critical gaps in HIV prevention care among unhoused and drug-using populations. By bringing healthcare directly into the community, we are removing barriers that have long kept people from accessing care, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to live healthy, dignified lives.
“I’m incredibly thankful to the Medica Foundation for their support to bring PrEP and rapid connection HIV care to those who need it most. I have been dreaming about providing this kind of care to our participants since the van began going out into the community!” Jay Orne, PhD Research Scientist and Harm Reduction Manager
This new initiative builds upon Aliveness Project’s ongoing commitment to community-based HIV prevention and harm reduction services. By integrating medical and pharmacy care directly into outreach, Aliveness will be able to offer on-site HIV testing, PrEP and PEP access, and medication support for people who may not have access to traditional healthcare settings.
“This is a transformative investment in equitable HIV prevention,” said Matt Toburen, Executive Director of the Aliveness Project. “Thanks to the Medica Foundation’s leadership and partnership, we can meet people where they are — bringing prevention, treatment, and hope to some of the most vulnerable members of our community.”
Aliveness Project thanks the Medica Foundation for recognizing the importance of investing in innovative, compassionate models of care. Together, we’re working toward a future where everyone has access to the healthcare they deserve.
