The Union Temple Baptist Church Huggin’ HIV/AIDS Ministry & Akoma Project

reprinted from a Union Temple Baptist Church brochure: For over thirty years, the Union Temple Baptist Church has provided unbiased and reassuring services to populations who have been rejected and ostracized by society. Union Temple Baptist Church established the Huggin’ Ministry in response to the AIDS pandemic which has disproportionately affected the African American community. This faith-based program has provided HIV/AIDS services for DC residents for over seventeen years. The Huggin’ Ministry is well recognized in the community for providing loving and effective services to persons living with HIV/AIDS.

In 1999 the Akoma (ah-ko-ma) Projected was added to the union Temple Baptist Church Huggin’ HIV/AIDS Ministry. Akoma, which literally means “The Heart”, is an African andinkra symbol of love, goodwill, patience, fondness faithfulness, endurance and consistency. The Akoma Project is funded by Ryan White Title I and Title II grants as well as DC’s CDC funds.

The Akoma Project and the Huggin’ Ministry provide a range of professional services in a supportive and nonjudgemental environment. These services are available to all persons in the community. We ensure timely and open access to the following services:

Case Management

We serve as a direct link to services required for persons living with HIV/AIDS, such as primary medical care, access to AIDS medication, housing, transportation, childcare/children services, vocational services, legal services, etc.

Mental Health Services

Mental Health Services such as individual counseling, family counseling and psychiatric evaluations and assesments are provided. Support group services are available on a regular basis also.

Prevention/Education

Educational programs and workshops are prvided for all individuals infected or affected by HIV/AIDs. We place a strong emphasis on prevention education. Risk reduction and individual and group counseling is also provided to people who are HIV positive.

Emergency Financial Assistance

Emergency financial assistance is available for persons living with HIV/AID for housing/rental assistance, tilities, pharmaceutical, and burial support. This service is provided on a limited basis upon review and approval of the application.

Transportation

Distortation to medical care, case management appointments, support groups, and other AIDS related services is available.

Pastoral Care and Counseling

Spiritual bereavement and counseling is available for persons living with HIV/AIDS and their loved ones. The ministerial staff at Union Temple Baptist Church provides pastoral care.

Day Treatment

Participants are engaged in recreational activities including field trips, group projects and other socialization opportunities. Light meals are made available.

Akoma Project & Huggin’ HIV/AIDS Ministry
1255 W Street, SE
Washington, DC 20020
202 889-5346