HIV Tests Score Free Drinks in Vietnam

In Global Advocacy, Vietnam by Fiona Ip

AHF Vietnam recently opened a café that also happens to be a free drop-in testing center for sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. Those who get tested will receive a free drink, like a coffee or juice, in a friendly and safe place to access care.

About 100 LGBTQ community representatives, along with government officials, attended the opening ceremony of the new center, which the leadership of the Vietnam Administration of HIV/AIDS Control also supported and committed to assisting with HIV testing efforts.

Ms. Tu Ahn, who is the director of VENUS, a support organization for transgender people, welcomed the initiative. “AHF Vietnam’s drop-in center is a very special place where many people like us can come, drink coffee, and get tested,” Ahn said. “I love this model and I will share it with my friends!”

In addition to VENUS, the center’s opening was supported by LOTO Ho Chi Minh, another local organization that works with transgender people. Their support is crucial because transgender people in the local community are highly impacted by HIV, so the café will be a great avenue for collaboration and outreach. Advocates also distributed 1,000 condoms during the event.

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