As HIV-positive men age, a unique Vancouver program provides an ‘oasis’ for those who have lived through the worst days of AIDS

VANCOUVER- Frederick Williams witnessed the worst of the AIDS crisis.

Diagnosed with HIV 33 years ago, Williams survived and went on to become a chef and then a harm-reduction workshop leader. But most of his friends weren’t so lucky, and they died from AIDS-related illnesses.

“I’ve gone through waves of friends,” the 55-year-old said. “In the 80s I lost all of my friends and then in the 90s I lost all of my friends again.”

On a Wednesday morning in July, Williams came to the Dr. Peter Centre for breakfast, like he does most days. He also brought his laundry from home and put it in the washing machine.

By day, the centre is a bustling hub for those living with HIV, and it provides free meals, counselling, massage therapy, a living room, music lessons and more.

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Canada Post has provided notification of restarting their operations on December 17, 2024. As Canada Post ramps up and stabilizes their services, the BC-CfE will continue the following measures on an interim basis to minimize service disruption to BC-CfE clients and providers.

  • The BC-CfE Laboratory will utilize private courier for delivery of outgoing reports and documents. (Lab Contact Information: Phone 604-806-8775; FAX 604-806-9463)
  • The BC-CfE Drug Treatment Program (DTP) will fax outgoing forms and documents to the provider’s office. (DTP Contact Information: Phone 604-806-8515; FAX 604-806-9044)
  • St. Paul’s Hospital Ambulatory Pharmacy will utilize private courier for delivery of medications. (Contact Information: Phone 1-800-547-3622; FAX 604-806-8675)

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