Prevention & Education
There are multiple ways to reduce HIV and STI risk:
- Undergo regular testing
- Use condoms and barriers
- Start PrEP (HIV prevention only)
- Openly communicate with your partner
Also, talk with your provider about vaccines for hepatitis, HPV (human papillomavirus), and Mpox (previously known as monkeypox).
AIDS Resource offers numerous HIV and STI prevention and education programs to residents in our service area. Contact us if you are interested in learning more about our programs.
Condom Distribution
AIDS Resource provides free condoms to residents within our service area. Our coverage area includes Cameron, Centre, Clearfield, Clinton, Elk, Lycoming, McKean, Potter, Snyder, and Union Counties.
You can visit one of our office locations to pick up condoms. When you arrive, please let the staff member know if you have a latex allergy.
Review step-by-step instructions on how to correctly use external and internal condoms.
PrEP Services
We offer free PrEP services at the Williamsport and State College offices. PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a medication taken by individuals who do not have HIV to protect themselves from getting HIV. Learn more about PrEP by clicking here.
PEP Program
AIDS Resource launched a program to provide financial assistance to survivors of sexual assault who cannot afford PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis). PEP is a short course of antiretroviral medications that decrease the risk of acquiring HIV after an assault. PEP must be started within 72 hours of the potential exposure and used only in emergencies. Learn more about PEP by clicking here.
This program is made possible by generous grants from the Pearls with a Passion Fund at the First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania and the Stabler Foundation. Learn more about the FCFP by visiting www.FCFPartnership.org.
Cleaning Injection Equipment
If you use injectable substances or medications, it is best to use new, sterile needles, syringes, and other injection equipment (e.g., cookers) every time to prevent getting HIV and other blood-borne infections. You should never share your injection equipment with others. If new equipment is not available or you must share equipment, it is recommended that you clean the items as directed between each use.
We provide free substance injection disinfecting kits, which include alcohol swabs for cleaning the skin before injecting, cotton balls, bottle caps for cookers, and instructional information on how to clean needles and syringes. Please stop by our offices to pick up a kit. Free and confidential rapid point-of-care testing for HIV and hepatitis C are available.
Early Intervention Services & Outreach
Our EIS and Outreach program aims to reduce HIV incidence in our community by engaging community members in outreach activities, community events, and educational programs. This approach enhances accessibility to HIV testing, counseling, referrals, and condom distribution for individuals who might not actively seek these services.
We are committed to fostering collaboration within our community. We believe in the power of collective efforts and are open to co-hosting events with local organizations. If your organization is interested in exploring potential collaborations, please contact us.
Discover the full range of our EIS and outreach programs by clicking here and reviewing our comprehensive list.
Individualized Prevention Plans
If you are concerned about getting HIV, our prevention specialists will conduct a personalized assessment and provide education, resources, and support to help you make well-informed decisions about your sexual health.
Schools, Colleges, & Community Groups
AIDS Resource offers an HIV-101 class that covers fundamental information about HIV, including transmission modes and methods of protection. We tailor the program to meet your specific needs, such as expanded HIV, STI, or substance abuse training. We also ensure that the class content is age-appropriate for the intended audience.
Agencies, Businesses, & Civic Groups
We provide Universal Precaution Safety Training, which encompasses the necessary precautions to minimize the risk of infection in the workplace. The training is customized to meet your specific requirements, such as offering expanded training on HIV, STI, or substance abuse.