The Punjab AIDS Control Program and Akhuwat signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the provision of free healthcare services to transgenders at Fountain House, Lower Mall, here on Monday.
The Akhuwat Khawaja Sara Rehabilitation Program provides free healthcare services and monthly stipend to transgenders at Fountain House. As part of the agreement, the Punjab AIDS Control will set up a treatment and counseling facility at Fountain House where free tests for Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Syphilis, STIs, vaccination of Hepatitis and treatment of Hepatitis C will be provided to all trans genders.
Executive Director Akhuwat Dr Amjad Saqib said, “The AKhuwat Khawaja Sara Rehabilitation Program is catering to the needs of trangenders of over 50 years old, providing them with medical services and stipends. The Punjab AIDS Control Program has come forward for a great cause and we hope that that by the joint efforts we will help alleviate the sufferings of these poorest of the poor.”
Program Director Punjab AIDS Control Program and Additional Secretary (Admin) Primary and Secondary Healthcare Department Dr Adnan Zafar, said, “The PACP has been trying to reach out to the marginalized communities of Pakistan. Akhuwat Khawaja Sara Rehab Program has rendered great services to these people and we hope that if we team up, we can include more people in this program and provide them with medical and healthcare support.”
As part of the Program, all Khawaja Sara of 50 years old or more, gather at the Fountain House where on voluntary basis, they are provided with counseling, medical services and stipends.
Also present on the occasion were Director Punjab Welfare Trust for Disabled Dr Izhar Hashmi, MS Fountain House Dr Imran Murtaza, Chief Psychologist PACP Ms Faiza Nayyer and team members of the signing organizations.