Support Services

A Friendly Ear

Support Services Coordinator Natalie Kallio's office is beside Sherri's in the 601 Outreach Centre. Natalie is available during office hours for one-on-one support, referrals, or just a friendly face to talk to. If you're newly diagnosed and feeling scared or alone, like Natalie, Support Worker Heather Byrne is a great person to talk to.

Referrals

Although AIDS Saskatoon not offer ongoing therapy, we can refer you to someone who does. We make referrals to HIV-friendly services, such as dentists, doctors & counsellors; we are also able to connect you to legal and social services when needed. We can provide assistance if you're dealing with medical, legal, social, employment, housing, or family issues. We keep Provincial and Federal forms on hand and we are willing to fax them for you upon request.

Support Groups

Positive Support and the Harm Reduction Group

Emergency Assistance Fund

Financial assistance is available on an emergency basis in the form of one-time grants. The EAF does not provide funding for ongoing expenses. Each request for funding is evaluated based on our funding guidelines. Proof of HIV status is required. AIDS Saskatoon's EAF program is funded solely by donations to the annual Red Ribbon Tag Day campaign in September.

Christmas Hampers

Our Christmas Hamper program provides a hamper full of items to create a wonderful holiday feast. In 2009, 62 hampers were distributed, with the help of generous donors, as well as friends at Lakeview Church, St. Mark's Anglican Church, the Public Service Alliance of Canada's Saskatoon Regional Women's Committee and so many more. Christmas hampers are available to persons living with HIV/AIDS in our community. Proof of HIV status is required.