March 2003

The Special Ministry of St. Stephen’s

Mindful that “we are all living with HIV/AIDS,” St. Stephen’s Episcopal Parish in Coconut Grove has undertaken an AIDS Outreach Ministry that reflects our special concern for those who are infected with HIV as well as others who love and care for them. We reach out to all those whose lives have been touched by this disease: our family members, loved ones, caregivers, and the community.

St. Stephen’s parishioners at the Miami AIDSwalk.

St. Stephen’s parishioners at the Miami AIDSwalk.

We provide a financial safety net for persons living with HIV/AIDS. When other funds run out, persons are referred to us by various agencies for emergency help. WE pay utilities, rent, medical, and food bills on a one-time basis. Persons applying must be working with a caseworker in a recognized program.

We also present and fund educational programs to all age groups on request.

We raise money by annual yard sales, beverage booths at the St. Stephen’s Arts and Crafts Show, silent auctions, dinners, and dances. Since 1995 we have raised $103,027 and given away $98,938 (96 percent) in direct assistance.

Our disbursement needs are growing due to the increasing numbers of single parents, mostly women, left alone as a result of abandonment or the death of spouses, to support their families. These women are often HIV-positive.

St. Stephen’s AIDS Ministry fills a unique need in supplying this emergency assistance. In most cases, we are the last hope.

The scourge of AIDS is not over. We will continue fundraising efforts to provide monetary assistance for those who have no other options. We will continue spiritual assistance. As long as there is a need for our services, we will be there.

There are no outcasts at St. Stephen’s.