We were honored to join thousands of organizations and individuals across the globe participating in World AIDS Day yesterday! Originally started in 1988, World AIDS Day was the first ever global health day. Observed every year on December 1st, it is an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV transmission, to show support for people living with HIV, and to remember and honor those who have died from an AIDS-related illness. It is also an opportunity to reflect back on our journey from the early days of the epidemic to where we are today. For 35 years, CAP has provided lifesaving and community-focused services to folks in Oregon and SW Washington.

2020 has been a year like no other due to the COVID-19 pandemic and our community has faced increased challenges in housing, mental health, food security, and access to healthcare. CAP has responded by providing emergency housing and rent assistance, tele-health services, food delivery, and virtual support groups. While we have been able to provide much needed relief to hundreds of Oregonians and Washingtonians throughout the pandemic, the need for these services has continued to grow and many of our friends and neighbors still need access to compassionate healthcare and critical wraparound services. For the past few weeks, we have shared a number of videos (which you can watch below!) leading up to World AIDS Day that give a window into the services we offer and why they are critical to the folks we serve. We work daily to help bring health equity to those most impacted by and living with HIV, end stigma, and provide compassionate care to the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. These messages from CAP staff, volunteers, community partners, and donors truly highlight the breadth of that work.

Thankfully, we have you, our steadfast community, to come together with us to meet these growing needs. This World AIDS Day, we were able to raise over $10,000 in critical funds to help bolster our programs this winter through your direct gifts and through our CAP Junior Board sponsored Drag Bingo event, featuring the unforgettable Mama Tits. Some of you signed up to volunteer and many of you shared messages of hope and remembrance on World AIDS Day. We are so overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support, and we can’t say thank you enough.

Thank you again from the bottom of our hearts!

Your Friends at CAP

About Cascade AIDS Project

Founded in 1985 as a grassroots response to the AIDS crisis, Cascade AIDS Project (CAP) is now the oldest and largest HIV-services and LGBTQ+ health provider in Oregon and southwest Washington, with more than 100 employees working across four locations. Our organization seeks to prevents new HIV infections; support low-income people living with HIV; and provide safe, welcoming, and knowledgeable healthcare for the LGBTQ+ community. Through our vital health, housing, and other social services, we help ensure the well-being of more than 15,000 people each year.  More information can be found at www.capnw.org.