HIV Awareness raising in prisons and communities

For those who are new to our work - and this specific program - we'd like to state again why we do prevention work.

Prevention is better than cure. That conviction lies at the heart of Siam-Care’s work. While we continue to walk alongside families affected by HIV through our Family Care and education programs, we also invest strongly in prevention — because protecting the next generation is just as important as caring for those already impacted.

In Thailand, conversations about sex are often avoided at home and in schools. As a result, many young people grow up without accurate information. Teenage pregnancy remains high — about one in twenty girls aged 15–19 becomes pregnant unintentionally — and HIV continues to spread, particularly among youth. Shame, stigma, and silence only increase vulnerability.

That is why Siam-Care provides targeted, age-appropriate education to equip young people with knowledge and confidence. In secondary schools, we teach students about sexual health, HIV prevention, and the risks of unprotected sex. s such as juvenile detention centers, where risks are often higher.

Just as importantly, we speak about self-respect, healthy relationships, and responsibility toward others. We also reach vulnerable groups through youth camps and, when possible, in settings such as juvenile detention centers, where risks are often higher.

Our prevention work goes beyond students. We train teachers so they feel confident and skilled in addressing these sensitive topics in the classroom. We equip church and community leaders with practical tools and accurate information, enabling them to guide and inform those in their care.

Throughout the year, we organize awareness campaigns around key moments such as World AIDS Day and Valentine’s Day, creating open and accessible spaces for dialogue. Increasingly, we also address online behavior, helping young people navigate social media safely and responsibly.

By combining prevention, education, and family-centered care, Siam-Care works toward a future where HIV infections decrease, stigma fades, and families can live healthy, independent lives.