On April 11th the staff of Operation Rainbow, led by Marist Brother Raj, extended their HIV AIDS outreach service to the people of Manapparai, about 45 kilometres from Trichy. The community is poor and neglected and at first there was hesitation and scepticism from the families about attending the meeting held at the local government hospital. In the end 85 people came to the meeting including 38 children.
Br Raj facilitated the meeting while local Doctor, Dr Shanmugapriya, spoke with the attendees about how to maintain good health despite being HIV positive. Participants were strongly encouraged to continue taking their antiretroviral tablets to slow down the growth of the virus.
During the month of May, 120 staff and clients of Operation Rainbow will go on a day trip to the seaside town of Poombukar. This will enable the children and elders in the program to enjoy a relaxing day out as well as strengthen their friendship with one another.
Australian Marist Solidarity has an ongoing commitment to support the work of Operation Rainbow. To read more about the work being undertaken by the program, or to make a donation, click here.
Ashley Bulgarelli
AMS Team Member