Each week the AIDS Walk Boston Blog will profile one of our programs at AIDS Action Committee. The money raised by the Walk is crucial for supporting these vital programs. 

This week we spoke with Deb Fournier, Associate Director of Public Policy:

Since its founding, the Public Policy and Legal Affairs Program at AIDS Action Committee has provided counseling and referrals to people living with HIV. Shortly after its start, it became clear that there were many problems best solved through litigation. To meet the clients’ needs, AAC now offers direct legal representation to clients. “Our goal is to help clients maintain a stable life that promotes safety and wellness,” says Deb. 

Last year, Legal Affairs worked directly with 131 clients. “Most of our cases involved housing,” an issue which has intensified because of the recent mortgage crisis. “Many clients are tenants whose landlord has been forced to foreclose. As a result they are facing eviction and these clients need to know their rights.” Other clients are, themselves, facing foreclosure and AAC’s Legal Affairs staff, along with a 25 member task force of pro-bono lawyers, can help these clients deal with their lenders.

Other issues that legal assistance address range from delays in social security or disability benefits, drawing of wills for clients in poor health, and even discrimination in the workplace or other settings, like a dentist’s office, where the client has revealed his or her status. “We can assist in discrimination issues by contacting the offender and reminding them of their legal and moral obligations. Our clients deserve to be treated fairly and with dignity.” 

The program also focuses on public policy in Massachusetts. “Our goal is to ensure that HIV-positive individuals are afforded effective and fair policy that is scientifically, not ideologically, based.” The AAC Public Policy staff carefully monitors proposals made in the State House such as healthcare reform in Massachusetts. “Recent proposals that would redefine basic insurance as not including prescription coverage would be detrimental to most individuals infected with HIV/AIDS and could lead to more frequent hospital stays for clients who are not able to afford medication. This could actually cost the government more money in the long-run,” notes Deb.  In the past year AAC staff members have submitted oral and/or written testimony on 15 bills before the MA legislature.

Funds raised through AIDS Walk Boston support programs like Public Policy and Legal Affairs, please register or donate today to help us continue these vital services.