Stop Suffering Help Centre (SSHC) volunteers distributed 168 000 condoms in the Empilisweni informal settlement and Mshayazafe hostel in Thokoza on 30th January 2010.

The also ran a soup kitchen which provided hearty cups of soup with bread to the many people queuing for condoms and HIV tests. This condom distribution campaign is a follow-up to the work started last year by SSHC and New Start,

an organisation that offers HIV tests and counselling. SSHC volunteers attended a workshop where they were taught about HIV/AIDS and trained as peer-educators on this disease.

The workshop covered sexually transmitted infection (STIs) and other sexual diseases which are part and parcel of HIV. This year SSHC is intent on continuing the fi ght against HIV/AIDS in all communities. Volunteers are inspired by this biblical verse: For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s fi eld, God’s building. 1 Corinthians 3:9. Sarah Jaloza, an SSHC volunteer for two years said, “I love what the Help Centre is doing. It gives a chance to those who are not well educated when it comes to STI and the dangers of unprotected sex. I can share the knowledge that I have. I think I can help save someone’s life through this work. Even if people don’t take my advice or use condoms, deep down I know I have played my part as an individual.”

SSHC is currently only working in the Gauteng area, but if you would like to become involved in this work or else organise campaigns in your area, please telephone this number: 011 338 5050 The Stop Suffering Help Centre is determined to spread a more positive attitude among all the people it helps. It organises door-to-door campaigns in the central city area of Johannesburg and surrounding suburbs.

By: Nikiwe Titus

Related News:

• UCKG Creates HIV Awareness
• Making HIV/AIDS your concern
• HIV is not a death sentence
• New Canaan Farm
• Pikit Up before we Kick Off.
• Prison ministry at Sasolburg
• The beginning of a new life
• Depended on the food from the help centre!