Gwendolyn Mastin

The AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC) joins service providers and clients in mourning the loss of long-time HIV/AIDS housing advocate Gwendolyn Mastin. Mastin, who passed on January 29, launched in 1991 the New Phoenix Assistance Center, one of Chicago’s first scattered-site HIV/AIDS housing programs.

New Phoenix provides transitional housing and support services for women in the Greater Chicago area who are homeless and may be infected with or affected by HIV/AIDS. Gwen also developed a culturally competent pregnancy prevention initiative for teens. The center has served more than 5,700 people since it was founded. Gwen was a generous and spirited activist who will be greatly missed by the HIV/AIDS community. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies go to his family, friends, and colleagues.