Title :

Comprehensive approach to reduce the spread of STIs/ HIV amongst MSM and gay Identified men in Thane District.

Goal:
To create a safe space for MSM, to form support groups and generate awareness about HIV/AIDS and STIs pertaining to the risk involved in male unprotected same sex activity in Thane district.

Project duration:
2005 - 2008

Funded by:
USAID - AVERT Society

Summary:
This projects aims at providing inter personal communication through outreach focusing on safer sex practices, correct and consistent condom usage and prompt treatment of STIs/ OIs by providing comprehensive strategies to increase awareness, provide BCC materials, access to health and care services to MSM and Transgendered individuals accessing cruising and sex spots in Thane District in all 23 sites are covered by 10 outreach workers and 15 voluntary peer educators.

Achievements:

- Sex mapping report completed and submitted to Avert Society.

- Baseline report of MSM activity completed, report is being drafted for the same and the study will be disseminated in the forthcoming month.

- One self help group initiated in Thane region.

- Referrals networks established in Thane civil and Rukmani Bai hospital.

- World AIDS Day activity conducted in collaboration with KDMC and Mayor of Kalyan.

- Drop in center space established with weekly workshops catering to needs of approximately 50 drop ins per week.

- Counselors trained and posted in Thane hospital.

- 2 community counselors identified and trained.