ARCW delivers special Thanksgiving baskets to patients with AIDS & HIV

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- As volunteers pack boxes of food with care, patients at the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin, or ARCW, are breathing a sigh of relief -- especially with Thanksgiving right around the corner.

"I can't wait! I can't cook the turkey, but I'm going to have my sister cook it for me so we'll be alright," said Vivian, who is an ARCW patient who asked us not to use her last name.

Vivian says she's touched by the mission of ARCW as she's been using their services for several years.

"I was very scared. I automatically saw a death wish, but then after I got to know the people and using the facilities that they provide for us I was able to cope more," said Vivian.

The organization provides everything from medical and dental care to social services for its patients with AIDS and HIV.

"Dealing with HIV disease really mandates that we deal with the entire person -- not just with the disease itself," said ARCW Vice President of Programs and Human Resources Roma Hanson.

It also has a food pantry, as many medications need to be taken with food and certain foods can provide health benefits.

"We believe that good nutrition helps build your immune system and just build your overall health," said Hanson.

This time of the year, they're giving out special Thanksgiving baskets to help their patients celebrate the holidays.

"We want them to feel honored and we want them to feel good about themselves," said Hanson.

It's an effort that's putting a smile on Vivian's face as she's now ready for Thanksgiving.

For more information on how to receive services from ARCW or to help the cause CLICK HERE.