This CSAP funded program is a peer- delivered integrated HIV/ substance abuse intervention aimed at homeless women residing in Women In Need transitional shelters and low-income women attending WIN substance treatment facilities. This group is at extremely high-risk for both HIV infection and substance abuse--fifty-six percent of homeless women and fifty-two percent of their companions reported recent non-injection drug use, thirty-four percent reported histories of sexually transmitted diseases and sexual activity with multiple partners; factors associated with HIV risk. The purpose of the program is to integrate an HIV education program with substance abuse prevention using a peer-delivered service model. Clients and former clients of WIN's substance abuse clients are recruited and trained as peer educators to deliver both HIV and substance abuse prevention messages. The program's short-term goals are 1. To improve the knowledge of the target population regarding risky-behaviors; 2. To affect a change in risky behaviors, i.e. reduce or stop using alcohol and drugs, have safer sex. A battery of instruments is administered at baseline and at six-month interval for twelve months to explore the knowledge, attitudes and behavior of the clients with respect to risky sexual and substance behavior. Clients who receive the regular counselor led HIV prevention program will comprise the control group. Post-intervention knowledge, attitudes to risky behaviors and changes in behavior are presented. The evaluation will provide valuable information on effective strategies for the prevention and modification of risky behaviors.
Learning Objectives: This paper presents findings from the first 12 months of three-year evaluation of an innovative HIV/Substance abuse prevention intervention program designed for homeless and at high-risk women in New York City.
Keywords: HIV/AIDS, Homeless
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.