Housing Solution For People Homeless And HIV+

Jill Sheridan

The Damien Center in Indianapolis will house some who are HIV positive and experiencing homelessness in hotel rooms for the next month.

The nonprofit will pay for the housing, for more than 20 people, with existing federal funds. New Housing and Urban Development guidelines allow for greater flexibility.

Housing and Food Program Manager Tyne Parlett says they were able to quickly identify individuals who may be at more risk of contracting COVID-19.

"By putting them into single occupancy rooms where they can have access to medication, they are able to take a shower and take sanitation to a maximum," says Parlett.

People who are HIV positive and don’t take medication to suppress the virus have a greater risk of developing complications if they contract COVID-19.

The Damien Center is working with the city to try and secure more funding for this effort.

Support independent journalism today. You rely on WFYI to stay informed, and we depend on you to make our work possible. Donate to power our nonprofit reporting today. Give now.

Here’s where to get free eclipse glasses in Marion County

The Marion County Health Department will host multiple events to distribute free eclipse-viewing glasses and provide information about how to stay safe.