History of development
The history of the Kharkiv branch began back in 2002. An initiative group of people living with HIV infection appeared in the city. Thanks to their efforts, groups for PLHIV and their close circle were created shortly thereafter. Everyone had the same goal—to help those affected by HIV and reduce the spread of the infection. In 2003, the initiative group held its first city-wide event dedicated to World AIDS Memorial Day, which later became an annual city event. In 2004, the initiative group was registered as the Kharkiv regional branch of the All-Ukrainian charitable organization “All-Ukrainian Network of People Living with HIV.”

The branch is constantly expanding the scope of its activities. Since 2007, the organization has been successfully working in penitentiary institutions, where it provides assistance to HIV-infected prisoners. Since 2008, HIV prevention has been carried out among prisoners, in 2009 a set of advocacy measures was carried out to introduce ARV therapy in penal institutions, and since 2012 the branch has been cooperating with nine correctional colonies in the Kharkiv region. During this time, it has become a tradition for the department to hold events in correctional facilities dedicated to World AIDS Day and World AIDS Memorial Day.

Also, almost from the very beginning of the organization’s existence, the Umka children’s room has been providing assistance to children affected by HIV infection. Since 2008, in cooperation with state structures, the Kharkiv branch has been promoting the adoption of HIV-infected children. The branch also holds a number of entertainment events for children, organises holidays, trips to the Kharkiv Dolphinarium, to the cinema and theatres.

For the seventh year in a row, the All-Ukrainian Network of People Living with HIV has been organizing the Sport Music Fest on the Day of Remembrance for Those Who Have Died of AIDS. This is a tournament within the Ukrainian Streetball League and a hip-hop concert—a truly grand and spectacular event in the city and the country as a whole, as the festival is nationwide.

It is now a powerful organization in the Kharkiv region with experience in providing services to people affected by HIV infection.

Areas of activity

• Medical, social, and psychological support for HIV-positive adults.
• Medical, social, and psychological support for HIV-positive children and children affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
• Ensuring access to tuberculosis diagnosis for HIV-infected patients.
• Care and support for HIV-positive prisoners in correctional facilities.
• HIV prevention activities in penitentiary institutions.