TOPSY IS 10
In 2010 we will be celebrating our 10th anniversary. A lot has changed in the 10 years we have been working to improve the lives of those affected and infected with HIV and AIDS in South Africa.
Whilst South Africa now has the largest treatment programme in the world, with about 700,000 people receiving ARV drugs and a further 760,000 estimated to qualify for treatment under the current national guidelines, there is unfortunately limited evidence that the rate of new HIV infections has slowed (Source: health-e.org.za No simple formula for universal access. August 2009).
Topsy is dedicated to working with our partners to ensure as many people in the areas we serve know about our comprehensive services and are able to access them. 2010 has started well for us in this respect - we have now signed a Service Level Agreement with the Mpumalanga Department of Health and the first consignment of ARV medication arrived at Topsy on 18 January 2010. Medication for opportunistic infections is to follow shortly. This will decrease our reliance on donor funding for ARV’s and other medications. We are excited to have entered into a formal partnership with Government and will work hard to continue assisting individuals infected and affected with HIV and AIDS.
This year we will be holding special events and activities to mark our anniversary. Now more than ever we need to ensure we can secure the funds necessary for our work to continue. We ask you to join us in our endeavors.