Building Bridges of Health and Hope: K&TRC’s Journey Towards 95-95-95
In the heart of Ondo South Senatorial District lies a beacon of hope, Kids & Teens Resource Centre (K&TRC), a community-based organization dedicated to championing the HIV response and empowering Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVCs). Through collaborative efforts with the APIN Public Health Initiative, with the generous support of the CDC, our aCare OVC Project has become a lifeline for countless children and families in the region.
Our approach is holistic, rooted in community, family, and individual-centered interventions. The goal here is simple yet profound. Ensure that every vulnerable child is Healthy, Stable, Schooled, and Safe. Our mission resonates deeply with every member of the organization, driving us to reach even the most marginalized children.
K&TRC leaves no stone unturned in ensuring that every newly identified Vulnerable Child (VC) is seamlessly connected to care. With the case management approach, we’ve facilitated the enrolment of VCs into treatment programs. This is great as it offers them a lifeline towards improved health and wellbeing.
One of our key initiatives is the meticulous tracking of progress toward 100% saturation of CALHIV enrolment. Every child counts, and we leave no stone unturned in ensuring that each one receives the care and support they need. Through our dedication, we have achieved steady OVC milestones, inching closer to our target of 5000 enrolments. But for us as a team at K&TRC, it’s not just about numbers; it’s about transforming lives and recognizing the uniqueness of each child within her/his household.
In our unwavering commitment to the well-being of OVCs, we go beyond the basics, offering specialized services like GBV screening, nutritional support, educational support, early infant diagnosis, and household economic strengthening, to mention a few. These interventions not only address immediate needs but also lay the foundation for a brighter future. A future free from the shadows of HIV and poverty.
Case Finding is at the forefront of our efforts. Through rigorous HIV Risk assessments and strategic testing, we have identified individuals deemed at risk. We therefore, provide them with access to vital testing services. Each test administered is not just a number but a step towards early diagnosis and treatment initiation, crucial components in achieving the 95-95-95 goals. Across the HIV care cascade, we implement a comprehensive array of activities from HIV Risk assessments to family index testing. his is all aimed at bridging gaps in care and ensuring no one is left behind. Through innovation and dedication, we are forging pathways towards improved health outcomes and a brighter future for all.
We go above and beyond to support our beneficiaries. VCs have been provided with escort services, ensuring that they never walk alone on their journey towards wellness. Adherence counseling and drug pickup reminders are offered by trained Case Managers/Community Care Workers with compassion and understanding. VCs to stay the course and remain engaged in their treatment regimens by this.
Yet, perhaps the most inspiring aspect of our work lies in the nurturing of community structures. Through caregivers forums, adolescent clubs, and Kid’s Club groups, we have created safe spaces where children can thrive, learn, and dream. Our innovative Incubation Hub provides opportunities for skill development and entrepreneurship. Also, empowering OVCs to break the cycle of poverty and build sustainable futures.
K&TRC is actively collaborating with the Government of Nigeria to ensure a lasting impact. this ranges from supporting the development of the state social register to collaborating with social welfare in child protection response. By this, we are laying the groundwork for sustained progress and long-term success. Collaboration with the National Population Council has streamlined the procurement of birth certificates for vulnerable children. This in turn, removes barriers to essential services and rights.
As the sun sets on another day in Ondo South Senatorial District, the spirit of hope burns bright at K&TRC. With unwavering dedication and boundless compassion, we are forging a future where HIV/AIDS is no longer a barrier to health and happiness. In our tireless efforts, with APIN Public Health Initiative holding our hands, we are building bridges of health and hope that span generations.
Gbenga Michael Adesunloro
Project Manager
