Central America
Mexico: Mothers with HIV
Why MI Americas is here:
Currently, at least 340,000 people in Mexico are living with HIV, including 40,000 in Mexico City and the surrounding areas. Many women are unaware of the risks of infection and consequently contract the virus at a young age. Without medical treatment, HIV can cause serious harm to the body and become life-threatening. Stigma and discrimination often lead to job loss, pushing many families into extreme poverty. Many pregnant women and new mothers are not made aware of the risk of transmitting HIV to their children during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Even those who know of this risk often lack meaningful access to preventive treatment.
Since 2014, Malteser International Americas has partnered with the Order of Malta Mexico (OMM) to support mothers and children affected by HIV. Our mission is to protect newborns and infants from the virus while ensuring healthcare for these families.
In collaboration with OMM, we provide support to pregnant women living with HIV and mothers with babies between 1 and 24 months old. In addition to medical care, these women receive infant formula, baby food, and essential supplies for their children. They also have access to workshops on income-generating activities, psychosocial support, and peer networking opportunities.
Key Project Initiatives
- Health & Nutrition Support: Distribution of food, infant formula, hygiene supplies, and medication to prevent mother-to-child HIV transmission.
- Community & Psychosocial Support: Regular meetings and support groups help women navigate pregnancy with HIV while fostering emotional resilience.
- Childcare & Travel Assistance: Providing childcare during workshops and covering travel costs to ensure accessibility for mothers from surrounding areas.
- Economic Empowerment: Trainings in small business initiatives help women gain financial stability.
- Emotional Well-being & Social Events: Special celebrations, such as Mother’s Day, boost morale and reinforce solidarity among participants.
Impact of MI Americas Programming (2021-2024)
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- 248 individuals benefited from program activities
- 47 babies born HIV-free
- 2,986 food packages & infant formula distributed
- 181 women & children supported
- 72 training workshops provided on health, childcare, and income generation
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