HIV/AIDS advocacy groups fear loss of funding to programs

via the State Journal-Register

Since being diagnosed with HIV 12 years ago, Chicago resident Arick Buckles has relied on medication from the state’s AIDS Drug Assistance Program to keep him healthy.

ADAP provides low-income people suffering from the disease with access to essential medications. The program, which is run by the Illinois Department of Public Health, serves more than 4,000 people each month.

Buckles, who lost his job as a peer counselor in late March, said he needs the program now more than ever. But Illinois’ budget woes have forced organizations such as ADAP to cut back their services for people suffering with HIV/AIDS.

Buckles said he’s worried he’ll become sick and be unable to work if he does not have access to the medications.

“We need these programs to continue to be funded,” he said. “I can’t stress that enough.” READ MORE.