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On Friday afternoon, local MP David Lammy dropped into a charity fundraiser at the Welbourne Centre in Tottenham Hale. He was there to offer his support to Daisy Byaruhanga and Innovative Vision Organisation, a local African HIV/AIDS support network and charity. Innovative Vision Organisation (IVO) was established 14 years ago by a group of Africans living with, or affected by HIV/AIDS. The aim is to provide care and support, information and advice to African communities in order to reduce the spread of HIV/AIDS and improve their quality of life. IVO like many small charities can sometimes find raising funds hard, but on Friday they decided to hold a community fundraising event to boost their resources. The afternoon was a great social occasion bringing together local residents and supporters of the charity through a celebration of music and food. David said: “I am always keen to support small local charities, and I know many are finding it tough during the recession. Today, it was great to see so many people, young and old, supporting and raising funds for IVO. “The issue of HIV in Haringey is sadly an increasing important one; with the African Community on the front line, and organisations like IVO working alongside the NHS to combat the spread of HIV; tackle the stigma attached to testing; and support those living with the disease. “I hope the message of safe sex, regular testing and education is finally getting through. We all know that having HIV is now longer a death sentence, but education and early testing is vital if you are to have the best chance of responding to treatment. “One clear message comes out of this event, and that is we must all do more to support people across the different communities in Tottenham and Haringey deal with HIV/AIDS and its impact.” If you want to know more about IVO or can offer them support please contact Daisy at info@ivo.org.uk
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