Addressing adolescent HIV/AIDS in Sullivan

Western Sullivan Public Library offers program for parents, teens

By SANDY LONG

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY — Communication is key, and accurate information is equally important when it comes to addressing adolescent HIV/AIDS, said Pattie Capobianco, program director of Catskill Adolescent Treatment Services (CATS). Based at Catskill Regional Medical Center in Harris, the mobile CATS program travels to communities throughout the region.

For the first time ever, the unit will visit each branch of the Western Sullivan Public Library offering the program, “Straight Talk About HIV/AIDS and Other Sexually Transmitted Diseases.”

The program is part of an ongoing outreach effort to increase understanding and prevention of sexually transmitted diseases impacting adolescents. Capobianco will bring trained peer educators along for the program, which will include handouts and be followed by an opportunity to ask questions. Both teens and adults will learn how to better protect themselves and their partners from contracting HIV or AIDS.

The van visits communities three nights per week, offering free risk-reduction counseling, free condoms, free confidential rapid HIV testing (with results in 20 minutes) and referrals to other services or agencies.

“We’re very excited about presenting our program at the library,” said Capobianco. “It’s an opportunity for parents and teens to learn and to have their questions answered in a familiar and welcoming environment.” Following the program, the CATS van will be available to individuals interested in any of its services.

For additional information about this program, or to bring the CATS van to your community, contact Capobianco at 845/794-3300, ext. 2827.

ADOLESCENT HIV/AIDS SCHEDULE

for Western Sullivan Public Library branches

According to CATS, one fourth of all new HIV infections in the United States occur in people under the age of 22. In addition, one out of every four sexually experienced teens will contract a sexually transmitted disease this year.

Learn more at the following sessions:

• Delaware Free Branch, Callicoon — Tuesday, January 15

• Jeffersonville Branch, Jeffersonville — Tuesday, January 22

• Tusten-Cochecton Branch, Narrowsburg — Wednesday, January 30

All sessions will be held from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.