ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Local advocacy groups are stepping in to support HIV services amid decreasing federal funding, with the annual Joyride event raising over $280,000.
What You Need To Know
Local groups raised $282,431 for HIV services through the Joyride event
The 165-mile ride went from Orlando to St. Petersburg
Funds support EPIC’s HIV testing, prevention, counseling and housing programs
In the shadow of St. Pete’s Albert Whitted Airport, cyclists finished their 165-mile journey that started in Orlando.
“165 miles from Orlando to St. Pete was spectacular,” said Juan Orellana, the first cyclist to complete the annual Joyride. “I hadn’t found an organization or ride that donates 100% of proceeds of what I fundraise to the organizations that need it the most.”
The money raised is going to organizations like EPIC, or Empath Partners in Care. Joy Winheim runs it.
“Especially now, when the epidemic has changed, and people don’t think that HIV is quite as scary, the money is just still so important,” Winheim said.
Winheim says her group provides testing and prevention, counseling, support groups, housing and so much more for the Tampa Bay community.
She says with high costs for just about everything, and federal grants dwindling, there is need now.
AHEAD, the American HIV Epidemic Analysis Dashboard, estimates there were 3,200 new HIV infections in Florida in 2022, the latest data publicly available. Worldwide, the World Health Organization says 630,000 died from HIV last year.
“People don’t think it’s an issue. Yet you have these individuals who go out there because they know that it is,” said Winheim.
Organizers say they raised $282,431 cycling for those who can’t.
“Cycling 165 miles is definitely a challenge, but the rush of being with your neighbors in the community on this ride. You can see the suffering in the face, but you can also see the joy when it’s done,” Orellana said.
If you’d like to help contribute, you can find the details on the Joyride website.