Stanford House marks 20 years

Stanford House marks 20 years

Stanford House is hosting a community barbecue on August 29 as it moves towards its 20th anniversary of helping people with HIV.

Set up in 1991 as an emergency accommodation service, the community-based organisation now offers short-term, supported accommodation for up to four people.

Joint coordinator Shane Kennedy said, as a community-based initiative, Stanford House was the first HIV supported accommodation service in Sydney.

“Stanford House struggled initially, but thanks to the vision and determination of Sister Sinead Clonan of the Daughters of Charity and a band of dedicated volunteers the service continues to this day,” he said.

“Stanford House is now funded by NSW Health, but donations and volunteer support enhance the services we are able to provide.

“With the advent of new medications, HIV is no longer the life-threatening disease that it was, but there is still a raft of other health issues that accompany long-term illness — side-effects of the medications, depression, anxiety and ongoing stigma and discrimination.”

Kennedy said most clients visited Stanford House at a low point in their lives, brought on by a variety of reasons.

“Stanford House, together with other support agencies, can help people get their lives back on track,” he said.

“Our continued service is a testament to the success of our work and evidence of the strong need for support for people living with HIV.”

The Stanford House barbecue is the first of a series of events the venue will host as it marches toward its 20th anniversary in November.

“This annual barbecue is an opportunity to say thank you to our volunteers and supporters and for a little bit of fundraising,” Kennedy said.

info: The barbecue will start at 12.45pm, Sunday, August 29, at Stanford House. A celebratory Mass will be held at noon. RSVP by August 24 by calling 9519 5362.

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