The Elton John AIDS Foundation will grant $50,000 to the North Carolina AIDS Action Network to support advocacy for policies that advance HIV testing, access to care, and reduction of HIV-related health disparities for key populations.

“We’re grateful for the Elton John AIDS Foundation’s investment in the fight for the rights of people living with HIV/AIDS and those at risk in our state,” said Claire Hermann, communications program coordinator at the Network.

“This grant will allow us to mobilize a wider community of people for smart HIV/AIDS policies, combat HIV-related stigma, and strengthen the advocacy capacity of the communities most affected by HIV/AIDS,” Hermann said.

An estimated 35,000 people are living with HIV in North Carolina. Communities of color; youth; rural communities; and gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men are disproportionately affected.

The North Carolina AIDS Action Network is the only statewide advocacy organization dedicated to fighting for the rights of people living with HIV/AIDS, their loved ones, and those at risk of acquiring HIV/AIDS in North Carolina.

The Elton John AIDS Foundation is one of the world’s leading nonprofits working to reduce the incidence of HIV/AIDS through innovative HIV prevention programs, efforts to eliminate stigma and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS, and direct treatment and care services for people living with HIV/AIDS.