ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. \u2014\u00a0Local advocacy groups are stepping in to support HIV services amid decreasing federal funding, with the annual Joyride event raising over $280,000.<\/p>\n
What You Need To Know<\/p>\n
Local groups raised $282,431 for HIV services through the Joyride event
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The 165-mile ride went from Orlando to St. Petersburg
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Funds support EPIC’s HIV testing, prevention, counseling and housing programs<\/p>\n
In the shadow of St. Pete\u2019s Albert Whitted Airport, cyclists finished their 165-mile journey that started in Orlando.<\/p>\n
\u201c165 miles from Orlando to St. Pete was spectacular,\u201d said Juan Orellana, the first cyclist to complete the annual Joyride. \u201cI hadn\u2019t found an organization or ride that donates 100% of proceeds of what I fundraise to the organizations that need it the most.\u201d<\/p>\n
The money raised is going to organizations like EPIC, or Empath Partners in Care. Joy Winheim runs it.<\/p>\n
\u201cEspecially now, when the epidemic has changed, and people don\u2019t think that HIV is quite as scary, the money is just still so important,\u201d Winheim said.<\/p>\n
Winheim says her group provides testing and prevention, counseling, support groups, housing and so much more for the Tampa Bay community.<\/p>\n
She says with high costs for just about everything, and federal grants dwindling, there is need now.<\/p>\n