Matthew 25 Aids Services Inc

"I found out I was HIV positive at the age of 72 and was sent to a private infectious disease doctor. I told him that I could not afford the tests, medications, and office visits. I told him that I would just have to die. He referred me to Matthew 25. 

They saved my life. Because of my age, it took me many months to get on the Drug Assistance Program. Learning that I have HIV was a panic inducing, frightening thing for me. I appreciate Matthew 25 for helping me to get the medications that I need and providing someone to talk to during stressful times. I am now 78 years old and enjoy life and living so much."

Matthew 25 AIDS Services was created in 1996 by a group of concerned members of Zion United Church of Christ who had been personally affected by the HIV/AIDS virus and wanted to see an organized effort in Henderson, KY and Evansville, IN area to fight the disease, to care for those infected and affected, and to provide education and prevention services for residents of the larger community. Matthew 25, however, offers services regardless of geographic location. Matthew 25 became incorporated and received 501c3 nonprofit status in 1999. In 2000 Matthew 25 was awarded a Ryan White Planning Grant to evaluate the need for clinical services in the area.

In 2001 Matthew 25 was awarded several prestigious awards:

First, was the Ryan White EIS (Early Intervention Services) Grant. This grant allowed Matthew 25 to begin providing the comprehensive medical care in this area. Second, Matthew 25 received a Robert Wood Johnson, Faith in Action grant for our volunteer services. Finally, a grant from the Preston Foundation allowed us to purchase a van for staff and client transportation.

Matthew 25 has continued to work in obtaining funds and has received additional federal, state, and foundation grants, including HRSA Ryan White Part C Medical Care grant, Ryan White Part B Support Services Grant, and Ryan White Part D Grant for Women and Youth. We also receive funding from The Kentucky Housing Corporation, KY State Dept. of Health - HIV/AIDS Branch, MAC AIDS Fund, the Welborn Foundation and Broadway Cares. Matthew 25 offers comprehensive medical and support services to those infected as well as provides prevention education and free counseling and testing.  Medical care consists of primary health care provided by HIV Specialist Nurse Practitioners and includes lab-monitoring, referrals for specialty care, access to medications, nutritional support, mental health, retention specialist, and health educator. Support services consist of medical case management, housing and emergency assistance, medication assistance, support groups, alcohol and drug referral, transportation and food pantry. Matthew 25 has over 400 clients enrolled.