Blue Sky Trust, a member of the ACET International Alliance, has used its commitment to tithe its income to highlight the desperate HIV situation in Zimbabwe.

The charity, based in Gateshead and working across the North East, has made a gift, 10% of its non restricted income, to a sister charity doing similar work in Zimbabwe.

Both charities are members of the ACET International Alliance, a group of Christian organisations working to offer care, education and training to those infected and affected by HIV and AIDS.

Helen Anderson, Service Manager of Blue Sky Trust said

‘The desperate plight of the poor in Zimbabwe has been rightly highlighted in our media in recent months and we are delighted to be able to play our part in offering our support to ACET Zimbabwe.  This fantastic charity, which has continued to work in that suffering country when so many organisations have left, is caring for thousands of orphans and people housebound because of the impact of AIDS’.

Blue Sky Trust works with people affected by HIV in the North East, empowering them to come to terms with their diagnosis, overcome difficulties, follow their aspirations and live their lives to the full. Since 2003, Blue Sky Trust has had the opportunity of supporting people from Zimbabwe and other African countries, giving them an understanding of and a connection with those in Africa living with HIV.

Whilst the situation in Zimbabwe is very different, Helen Anderson was keen to draw parallels with the work done in the North East.

‘People with HIV and AIDS can feel isolated and afraid.  Many face prejudice and stigma, making them afraid to declare their status and seek help until sometimes it is too late.  All ACET programmes, in 23 countries, offer a compassionate Christian response to the needs of the millions who live with HIV and AIDS, and are involved in not only care, but also breaking down these barriers through education and training.  Many have seen this as just an African problem, but our experience, backed up by government figures, is that infection rates are also growing here in the UK and our services are in increasing demand.’

ACET Zimbabwe will use the gift to expand its home visiting and orphan care programme, particularly in the rural areas around Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s second city.  There local volunteers offer practical and emotional support to the housebound and orphans.  Blue Sky Trust’s gift will be spent on transport costs, food and support for school fees.