Breaking down the walls: the prison pen pals project

Body Posit. 1999 Jul;12(7):38-9.

Abstract

AIDS: The prison health system provides little specialized treatment or chronic care for prisoners living with HIV and AIDS. In addition, inmates often feel isolated because of treatment by people who fear their infection. The Prison Pen Pals Project was created in June 1985, by the People With AIDS Coalition (PWAC), in an attempt to lessen the feeling of isolation, and provide information and support to prisoners living with HIV/AIDS. Through this program, which officially started in January 1990, HIV-positive inmates can share their experiences and feelings with other HIV-positive nonincarcerated participants. Contact information is provided for people who want to volunteer for the project.

Publication types

  • Newspaper Article

MeSH terms

  • HIV Infections / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Prisoners*
  • Social Support*
  • United States
  • Volunteers
  • Writing*