On World AIDS Day (1 December) this past week there was an opportunity to reflect back on the great progress made in the battle against the worldwide HIV/AIDS epidemic. In the years since 2004, when we felt called by God to enter into the battle, there has been tremendous progress. Even in Southern Africa, the continuing focal point of the epidemic, millions of people are being tested and provided with access to effective treatment (ARVs). Mothers are receiving medications that prevent their babies from being born with the infection. And there is evidence that the epidemic may have peaked as rates of new infection are dropping (at least slightly) and the prevalence rates are stabilizing.

All of this is an opportunity to give thanks and praise. We are grateful to God for the opportunity we have had as Two Tunics to contribute to this progress in South Africa. Yet my fear is that at this critical time we will become complacent and reduce our resolve and commitment to fight this battle which is far from over. South Africa continues to be the most affected single country in the world. In fact 1 out of 6 of all HIV positive people in the world live in this one country of 48 million people. And in the Ugu District of KwaZulu-Natal where we are continuing our work 40% of the women of child bearing age are HIV positive. Partly because of the co-epidemics of poverty and TB the death rates of young mothers and fathers remains high and there are more than 2.5 million orphaned children in South Africa (20 million in all of Africa).

Besides the gospel, education is one of the best weapons we have in this battle against AIDS. Two Tunics is committed to supporting education for children, specifically for those who are poor and/or orphaned and would not otherwise be able to stay in school. That is why in 2010 we started a Child Sponsorship Program to help needy children stay in school. For this coming school year starting in January, our community partners have identified 62 needy children. A one-time donation of $90 or R700 will provide the support for needed school uniforms, shoes, school supplies and food parcels.  This Christmas season we would ask you to consider joining in this effort with us. If you are not able to sponsor a child yourself perhaps your family, church group or social club could come together to sponsor one or more children. Go to our share page to see how to make a donation and be sure to designate your gift for child sponsorship. In the first quarter of the year you will receive information about your sponsored child.

You can help restore hope for the future to a child in South Africa through education. You have an opportunity to join us as we carry on the battle against the AIDS epidemic. We will not become complacent but we need your support.  Please stand with us and for all God’s children.