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Photo: USAID/Marc Douglas

"I am inspired by the work being done at PASADA — lifesaving work, life-changing work," said Mrs. Bush. "Here, people with HIV/AIDS can get the treatment they need to fight the disease. And they can also get the love and support they need to live a happy and full life."

In July 2005, U.S. First Lady Laura Bush and her daughter Jenna visited Pastoral Activities and Services for People with AIDS in Dar es Salaam Archdiocese (PASADA) in Tanzania. Operated by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese, PASADA targets the urban poor, offering comprehensive care to people living with AIDS, regardless of their religious affiliation.

The U.S. government has supported PASADA since 1995, most recently by USAID in coordination with the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief. And to the joy and surprise of those assembled for her visit, Mrs. Bush promised that support from the American people would continue, pledging an additional $500,000 to PASADA.

PASADA now consists of several buildings, including new counseling rooms, a training room, a storeroom and staff offices. The buildings surround an courtyard and garden that create the illusion of a quiet park rather than an urban clinic.

Mrs. Bush toured the main clinic and sat with children orphaned by AIDS, who discussed how they cope with family loss. She also talked to adult patients, who said they are grateful for the clinic, which provides not only excellent medical care but also counseling, home care and even economic assistance for those in need. Pregnant women can receive potentially lifesaving treatment for their unborn children and antiretroviral drugs to treat and minimize complications.

Mrs. Bush commended the PASADA staff for their work. "Here, people with HIV/AIDS can get the treatment they need to fight the disease. And they can also get the love and support they need to live a happy and full life." Mrs. Bush added, "President Bush is a strong supporter of faith-based groups that bring help and healing to people who need it. We appreciate the work of people who are affiliated with churches or mosques and other faith groups. When our government can work together with faith-based organizations, we will."

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