Sweets, dresses presented to HIV, AIDS affected children

Sri Krishna Group of Educational Institutions, here joined hands today with several NGOs in celebrating Diwali with HIV and AIDS' infected and affected children.
Nearly 30 children in various schools, in the age group of three to 12 years, and a few adults were presented with sweets and new dresses at a function organised on the premises of the institution.
Speaking on the occasion, Gopalakrishnan, Director, District Aids Prevention and Control (DAPCO) said, of the 20 lakh identified AIDS affected people in India, nearly 2.5 lakh were in Tamil Nadu and of them which 10,000 were in Coimbatore District.
He appealed to the Colleges to come forward and help such children and persons and bring them to the mainstream, by adopting them or providing employment.

Shivakumar, Coordinator, DAPCO, asked those affected with HIV or AIDS, to identify and avail various Government sponsored scheme for them.
NGOs like Coimbatore Network Positive Plus, Tamil Nadu Nework of Positive and India HIV/AIDS Alliance should strengthen the networks financially and become self sufficient to help those affected by the diseases, Shivakumar said.