CHICAGO (AP) — Better Existence with HIV, a Chicago-based AIDS service organization, has closed its doors after more than 20 years, citing financial problems.
In a statement, the agency's interim executive
director and board president blame a "horrendous" economy and a drop
in individual giving for the closure.
They say the organization is transferring its
caseload and active service contracts to other agencies.
BEHIV was founded in 1989 to serve growing numbers
of people living with HIV on Chicago's North Side and northern suburbs. The
agency provided a range of services, including housing, HIV testing, art and
massage therapy and mental health treatment.
The agency estimates it served thousands of
clients.
The statement says the agency "leaves the
community with pride, grace and a sense of accomplishment."
Copyright
2011 The Associated Press.
