Instituto Familiar de la Raza established the first Latino/Chicano focused HIV program in San Francisco, in 1985. Today, Si a la Vida –Integrated HIV Services provides a range of prevention services for Latino communities at the highest risk, and mental health services for all Latinos living with HIV in San Francisco.
Our goals include:
- contribute to the reduction of new HIV cases among Latinos fighting social stigma due to HIV status, sexual orientation and transgender identity crease access to health and social services for HIV negative and positive clients.
All services are available in English and Spanish. Monday to Thursday 9–7, Friday 9– 5.
Individual Health Education
For: Gay, bisexual, curious men; transgender women; and men who have sex with men or transgender women but don’t identify as gay.
What: We help individuals address the factors that place them at risk for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Includes an assessment of risk behaviors and attitudes, making a risk reduction plan, and creating linkages to HIV testing and other services. Free condoms, lubricant and educational materials. Gift cards may be available.
Trans Women Program
For: Latinas who identify as transgender/transsexual or are in transition.
What: These charlas (interactive groups) provide HIV prevention messages utilizing a psychosocial model. The groups are safe spaces to develop social support, and learn about risk reduction practices, employment, social and legal issues. Groups can take place throughout the city, including the S.F. jail.
ACA Entre Nos Interactive Workshops (HIV positive)
For: HIV positive gay/bisexual Latino men; men who have sex with men or transgender women.
What: These workshops utilize Art, Community and Support to explore living with HIV and preventing HIV transmission. The goal is to create safe spaces for self-expression and to develop or maintain healthy attitudes and sexual behaviors. Gift cards may be available.
Miss and Mr. Safe Latino
For: All Latino communities and their friends and supporters.
What: A community event created in 1991 by staff and clients to deliver a message of self-empowerment, hope and unity in the battle against AIDS in the Latino LGBT community. It is a talent and HIV knowledge competition where participants are selected based on a combination of creative expression and commitment to educating others about HIV.
Prevention Case Management
For: HIV positive gay, bisexual Latino men.
What: This is a short-term counseling service to help clients resolve psychosocial issues that make it difficult for them to maintain safe practices to prevent HIV transmission.
HIV Case Management
For: HIV positive Latino gay, bisexual, heterosexual men and women. Low income, uninsured or underinsured SF residents.
What: Evaluation and assessment of medical, clinical and practical needs. Assistance making and following a treatment plan, and coordinating services.
HIV Mental Health
For: HIV positive Latino gay, bisexual, heterosexual men and women. Low income, uninsured or underinsured SF residents.
What: Psychotherapy and substance abuse counseling to help clients improve their functioning. Psychiatric evaluation and medication management services are also available.
For more information, contact sialavida@ifrsf.org.
