AHOPE Ethiopia is a local charity, which provides specialized care to destitute HIV positive orphans and vulnerable children. AHOPE was established in 2004 to rescue the increasing number of HIV positive orphans who were not getting both community- based supports and institutional care like other children although they are the ones who needed extra treatment and attention to survive. In most cases, these children died before reaching adolescence. However, in a decade of it service, AHOPE Ethiopia with the availability of antiretroviral drugs and the provision of nutritious food and quality medical care, has ensured these children can survive. But the needs of these children are beyond their survival. Moreover, AHOPE is witnessing the once hopeless children are now growing into adolescents and youth. As a result, AHOPE is no longer just a place for children but also for adolescents and youth. In line with this, AHOPE has recognized the importance of youth transitional programs to bridge between Children Homes and the community. AHOPE assumes such a strategy would help the youth in their historic transition into the community. On the other hand, AHOPE Ethiopia also sees the importance of strengthening the earning power of families affected by HIV by involving them in saving and credit micro-finance institutions. Such approach would strengthen the economic capacity of households and gradually enable them to become self-reliant. Moreover, it will also boost the confidence of families to take control of their lives as they become financially empowered. AHOPE Ethiopia is mainly funded by AHOPE for Children USA. Lunds Kyrkliga Samfallighet, Gratitude Alliance, Stella Della Solidariete Onlus, Bethany Christian Services, WWO Academy and individuals remain to be long supporters of AHOPE Ethiopia.
