MONTE PLATA, Dominican Republic. Beautiful velones (candles), canvas bags, flower arrangements and kitchen towels are stored at BRA’s clinic in Batey Cinco Casas until their display in an open house to be held in the Monte Plata Province. These works of arts were carefully and patiently elaborated by men and women who are living with the HIV virus or have family members who do. Between August 2005 and July 2006, BRA conducted 18 sessions (Talleres Vocacionales de Manualidades) where these crafts were elaborated. Dr. Denis Cespedes from the BRA was in charge of teaching the skills and the project was part of Proyecto Arcoiris financed by USAID. Under Proyecto Arcoiris, HIV/AIDS patients receive a variety of medical and psychosocial support services from BRA’ clinics and personnel. Every week, a session (taller) took place in different locations around Monte Plata. Between 20-30 people would gather in Sabana Grande, Cojobal, Cruce de la Jagua, and Don Juan to have a space to cultivate their talents among friends and family. Now these artists have a date to look forward when their hard work and creativity will be presented to their communities prior to proudly decorating their homes.

AIDS is ravaging the lives of children in the bateyes. Please help BRA fight AIDS in the bateyes by making a gift of $250, $500, or more payable to Batey Relief Alliance, and mail to P.O. Box 300565, Brooklyn, N.Y. 11230.