For Immediate Release:	February 14, 2003
For More Information:	Brian Shields, Catholic Relief Services, bshields@catholicrelief.org, 410-951-7455
Sponsor Organization:	Catholic Relief Services
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) announced today it has received more than $1.5 million to combat HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infections in Madagascar. The grant, which will cover a four-year project in two areas of the island, comes from the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.
Baltimore, February 14, 2003 – Catholic Relief Services (CRS) announced today it has received more than $1.5 million to combat HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infections in Madagascar. The grant, which will cover a four-year project in two areas of the island, comes from the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. “HIV prevalence in Madagascar is less than one percent. At the same time, the incidence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) on the island is very high, and we know that this is an indicator of a potential rise in HIV infections,” said Jennifer Overton, CRS’ Country Representative for Madagascar. “This funding will help us to treat people with STIs, as well as educate people about HIV/AIDS and keep what has happened on the African continent from happening here.” The project will reach more than 147,000 people and will focus on two cities: Antsirabe, an industrial and transport hub, and Ilakaka, the center of Madagascar’s sapphire mining industry. Building on existing programs in these areas, CRS and local partners will expand access to STI testing, counseling services and treatment and provide HIV/AIDS life skills and behavior change education. Madagascar, located off the southeast coast of Africa, is the fourth largest island in the world and home to nearly 16 million people. CRS has operated in Madagascar since 1962, with programs across the island focusing on maternal health and child survival. CRS serves nearly two million people affected by HIV/AIDS in 31 countries around the world, with particular focus on sub-Saharan Africa. The agency works with local partners and communities to provide care and support for those living with AIDS and seeks to reduce stigma and the spread of the disease through education. The Global Fund is an independent, public-private partnership designed to attract, manage and disburse new resources to fight the global crises of AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria by sharing resources and expertise across national boundaries, and between the private and public sectors. Catholic Relief Services is marking its 60th year as the official international humanitarian agency of the U.S. Catholic community. The agency provides assistance to people in 90 countries and territories on the basis of need, not race, creed or nationality.