The Spokane Aids Network’s mission is to empower people at risk of, or affected by, HIV/AIDS through education, outreach and advocacy. SAN was created by community members coming together to build a network of care and services for their loved ones in the early days of the HIV epidemic, and it has been sustained for more than three decades by volunteers, partners, and donors. 

Today, SAN’s long-term efforts are focused on

• supporting access to food and stable housing;
• creating safe spaces for the HIV community; and
• building HIV awareness in the Spokane area.

Our focus on increasing access to reliable food and housing is admittedly not an innovative idea; however, when supporting a community that has historically been underserved and stigmatized, it is crucial to ensure even the most basic functions are not overlooked. In fact, these services are critical to maintaining their health, taking their medications, and maintaining an undetectable viral load, which reduces their risk of transmitting HIV to their partners. Spokane’s mix of urban and rural population means that some of our community members may be the only HIV positive – and/or even LGBTQ-identified – people they know.   SAN continues to be a resource hub for the HIV and LGBTQ+ community through its website, peer and social support and through emergency support services. Further yet, during the COVID-19 pandemic, in partnership with Odyssey and the Lgbtq+ Seniors of the Inland Northwest, SAN also pivoted to expand the reach of our services beyond the HIV/AIDS community, providing access to SAN’s food pantry, support services and a safe space to gather for the broader LGBTQ community.