It’s a startling statistic; 75 per cent of homeless individuals living with HIV without support will die within five years.
Sanctum Care Group is hosting a unique fundraiser to raise awareness about some of the hardship those living on the streets with HIV face every day.
Called Sanctum Survivor, 10 prominent Saskatoon residents will be living for 36 hours as if they are homeless while completing challenges meant to demonstrate the hardships of those who experience poverty, homelessness and chronic illness.
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Living with HIV today is dealing with a chronic illness, not a fatal disease.
Participants have to keep their cell phones charged at all times, but can only use them to check in and update social media. They are meant to share their experiences as they complete challenges like making a doctor’s appointment without ID, or finding affordable housing with no references.
The fundraiser is also meant to raise awareness within the community. Author and public speaker Ernie Louttit spent 25 years as a police officer in Saskatoon and is interested to experience the other side of some of the scenarios he used to deal with daily.
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“How we treat the most vulnerable and exposed in our society really reflects the values of our society,” said Louttit.
“Once you hear something you can’t un-hear it. If it sits in the back of somebody’s mind and makes them think differently about people in their community, then mission accomplished.”
The 36-hour challenge wraps up Saturday night at 6 p.m. CT with a reception.
“We’re just getting a taste of this, this is people’s lives,” said Louttit.
While their journey on the streets may be short, it will likely change their outlooks for life.