Healing Beyond the USAID Cuts

Dear Supporters,

Thank you for your continued solidarity with Mbarara Rise Foundation and the communities we serve in Southwest Uganda. Your generosity continues to make a tangible difference for minority youth and other vulnerable people living with HIV who have been affected by the reduction in international HIV funding.

Since our last update, we have continued supporting community members to remain on treatment by covering consultation fees and linking them to health facilities where antiretroviral medicines are available. For many beneficiaries, this assistance has prevented treatment interruptions that could have serious health consequences. We have also strengthened our follow-up system through peer educators and community volunteers, ensuring that those at greatest risk of missing treatment receive timely support and referrals.

Despite these efforts, the situation remains difficult. Health facilities continue to experience periodic medicine shortages, forcing some individuals to travel longer distances to access treatment. Rising transport costs, unemployment, and persistent stigma continue to discourage many from seeking healthcare, particularly sexual minorities who often face discrimination in their communities.

Our team has continued working closely with healthcare providers to promote respectful, non-discriminatory services while providing psychosocial support to individuals experiencing fear, anxiety, and social isolation. These conversations have helped strengthen trust between communities and healthcare workers and encouraged more people to remain engaged in care.

Your support is helping people stay healthy, maintain hope, and protect the progress they have made in managing HIV. As needs continue to increase, we remain committed to ensuring that no one is forced to choose between their health and their financial survival.

Thank you for standing with us during this critical time. Together, we are helping build healthier, more resilient communities where everyone has the opportunity to live with dignity and hope.

Donors,

In Uganda, the suspension of U.S. support has left many minority youths individuals living with HIV facing a daily struggle. Clinic visits that were once routine have become hurdles—drug stock-outs, consultation fees, and long journeys prevent access to life-saving ARVs. For many, this isn’t just a health issue; it’s a constant fear of falling ill or facing treatment interruption, all while navigating a world that often refuses them dignity and safety.

Through this project, Mbarara Rise Foundation has stepped into that gap. Over 200 community members now have their consultation fees covered, ensuring they can refill ARVs without fear of financial barriers. Beyond the numbers, this support has brought peace of mind, stability, and a sense that they are not alone. We’ve worked with clinics and local partners to smooth supply chains, reduce discrimination, and advocate for inclusive healthcare practices that recognize the humanity of every individual.

The need, however, continues to grow. Each week, more individuals reach out, often after months without proper treatment. Poverty, stigma, and sporadic drug availability still limit access, while the emotional toll of navigating discrimination adds layers of vulnerability. These are real people whose health, safety, and futures hang in the balance, and the gaps are still large.

Moving forward, we envision a Uganda where every minority youths person living with HIV can access treatment without fear or financial strain. Additional support would expand coverage for consultation fees, strengthen advocacy to eliminate systemic barriers, and empower the community through awareness and education. Every contribution helps keep someone healthy, hopeful, and able to thrive despite the odds stacked against them.