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An FXB Initative
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In 2010, the number of children worldwide who have lost one or both parents to AIDS is expected to reach 25 million – equivalent to the number of people living in New York, Paris, and Bangkok combined. In sub-Saharan Africa alone, over 15 million children have been orphaned by the pandemic.

Experts believe that millions more orphans remain unaccounted for in India, China and Russia.

The Facts

In addition to the psychological trauma of losing a parent, orphans are often subject to discrimination and are less likely to receive healthcare, schooling and other needed services. Deprived of protection, education, support and love, they face malnutrition, illness and HIV infection and are easy prey to many forms of exploitation: forced labor, prostitution and child soldiering. The Facts >

AIDS Orphans Stories

Behind the statistics are millions of stories of human suffering. The AIDS orphans crisis has a catastrophic impact on households and communities – deepening poverty and exacerbating hardship. The extended family remains the only safety net for most affected children. Households are usually overwhelmed and are often unable to meet children’s most basic needs. AIDS Orphans Stories >

10% for Children

Too little attention is given to orphans and vulnerable children. Few resources are reaching the families and communities that provide the front-line response. We must bring the needs of these children to the forefront of our battle against HIV and AIDS. Specifically, governments should direct at least 10% of their overall HIV and AIDS funding to support AIDS orphans and vulnerable children. 10% for Children >

Resources

With adequate funding, the world can help children orphaned by AIDS to grow up healthy and safe. We can address the challenges presented by the AIDS orphans crisis through:

  • Support to families and communities that serve as the safety net for AIDS orphans.
  • Access to education, health and nutrition for orphans and children affected by AIDS.
  • Job training and livelihood support to give young people the skills necessary to enter the workforce and to become productive members of their community.
  • Social protection laws that promote and enforce inheritance and other legal rights for orphans must be in place.
  • Treatment for HIV positive children that is provided with special consideration for the physical, psychological, and social needs of a child living with HIV.

We need your help to speak out and spread the word about World AIDS Orphans Day. Your voice is their future. Resources >

Who Supports Orphans

From New York to Paris, France to Lomé, Togo – more than 800 mayors and government leaders from around the world have raised their voice and support for World AIDS Orphans Day. Check out local leaders who are standing up for orphans and vulnerable children. Who Supports Orphans >