Major Funding Freeze Threatens Critical HIV/STI Services in Wisconsin
Milwaukee, WI– BESTD Clinic a key provider of free HIV/STI testing, treatment, education, and prevention services, is urgently alerting the public about a possible $50,000 funding cut — a staggering 62% of the organization’s total operating funds — that has been unexpectedly withheld during year two of a five-year grant cycle due to a nationwide divestment from HIV prevention.
This funding loss jeopardizes a wide range of essential services, including:
- Free testing and treatment for HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Referral services for newly diagnosed HIV cases
- Prevention, education, and awareness programs
- Barrier free walk in free services
- Free Condom distribution
“This is a serious threat to our ability to provide services and it’s a serious public health risk,” said Ruthie Weatherly, Clinic Manager. “Without these federal resources, we face an increased likelihood of undiagnosed and untreated cases of HIV and STIs in our community. This affects all of us. This is part of a nationwide funding uncertainty, that leaves community organizations like us forced to scramble. One thing we do know, we will persevere, we will continue to serve our patients for free, we are not going anywhere.”
BESTD Clinic is actively seeking alternative funding and community support to continue providing these life-saving services.
For more information or to support our work, visit www.bestd.org to donate.
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
