Lieberman, Blumenthal, Larson Announce $500,000 For Latino Community Services In Hartford

(Hartford) – Today Senators Joseph I. Lieberman, Richard Blumenthal and Congressman John B. Larson announced that Latino Community Services, Inc., of Hartford will be receiving a $500,000 federal grant for their project STEP – Support, Treatment, Education, Prevention. Project STEP will provide community-based treatment to those at risk of HIV infection, targeting African American and Hispanic/ Latino men ages 18-29.

"This funding will contribute to the prevention of HIV/AIDS and our community’s health and quality of life,” said Senator Lieberman. “The good work of Latino Community Services and this grant will reach many families and individuals in our underserved communities who are struggling with HIV, AIDS, and other health problems to live longer and fuller lives."

“This grant will provide invaluable prevention and intervention services to Connecticut individuals at risk or living with HIV/AIDS,” Blumenthal said. “I applaud Latino Community Services for the work that they do to ensure that individuals at risk or living with this virus get the wrap-around support that they need.”

“Providing education, support, and prevention services is essential for our communities to help individuals at risk or living with HIV/ AIDS,” said Congressman Larson. “I know Latino Community Services will use this funding to make a positive impact in the lives of many in Connecticut and give residents the support and care they need to live healthy, productive lives.”

"Hartford still faces challenges in adequately educating our communities about preventing the spread of HIV," said Mayor Segarra. "This grant will help Latino Community Services continue the important work they do and help to prevent families in the future from being affected."

In August Congressman Larson wrote a letter of support for Project STEP to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. The Project will engage 230 individuals and provide screening for substance abuse, HIV testing, substance abuse case management and treatment, and other support services.

Latino Community Services, Inc. provides a wide range of support for residents who are at risk of HIV infection or living with HIV/ AIDS, including rapid testing, prevention services, case management and risk counseling services.