Support HIV/AIDS Treatment for Kids in China

For the last decade, PATS local partner AOS has brought many of the PATS children to Beijing each summer for "camp". It is a great opportunity for the children to see something outside of their small rural town and see important historical and cultural sites. The children look forward to this trip all year and it is the only opportunity most have to travel anywhere.

Many local university students volunteering with the Red Cross signed up to help with the summer camp and were on hand to engage with the children, serving as tour guides. The kids called them “GeGe” and “Jiejie” (Elder Brothers and Sisters) and had a very fun week in their company.

They visited the Beijing Zoo where they said hi to the pandas and the Science and Technology museum where they participated in some very cool hands-on scientific exhibits.  They also took some art classes and toured many scenic and historical places in Beijing where they loved getting photos to bring back to show friends and family. 

The highlight of the trip was meeting Yao Ming! When the kids first met Yao in person, they were so surprised that 'He was so tall!' Yao played basketball with the kids, and put some kids up on his shoulders so they could shoot baskets. They also met with Peng Liyuan (China’s 1st lady)- which was an incredible honor.

As you can imagine the kids had a blast on the trip and for a short time could focus on the fun of childhood rather than on the heavy and often difficult day-to-day existence they live back home. Thank you for your support that allows us to provide our kids not only with critical medical and educational support, but also from time-to-time with a chance to experience childhood.

Below are some group pictures. We hope you enjoy them!