History

In 1985 a group of concerned citizens founded Lafayette CARES in response the affect that HIV was having on the area  and to meet the needs of those infected and affected with HIV/AIDS in Lafayette. Since that time, the agency has expanded its services, offering them to persons throughout Acadiana (Acadia, Evangeline, Iberia, Lafayette, St Landry, St Martin and Vermillion Parishes). The agency changed its name in 1995 to Acadiana CARES to reflect its regional work. Through these efforts, Acadiana CARES has worked to provide education to halt the spread of HIV in the region and to end the prejudice and discrimination surrounding HIV/AIDS issues.

Mission

The mission of Acadiana CARES is to address the issues and problems associated with the HIV/AIDS pandemic and to provide education and services for the purposes of HIV prevention and the cares those living with and affected by HIV/AIDS.

Objectives

• Increase awareness among those infected with HIV/AIDS of available services in the region
• Improve the quality of life for those living with HIV/AIDS
• Develop and expand relationships with other agencies that are able to provide needed services to those infected with HIV/AIDS
• Increase social awareness and behavioral changes in high-risk populations
• Address the myriad of issues that contribute to HIV/AIDS infection, such as poverty, homelessness, substance abuse and mental illness