Myanmar Red Cross Society works in remote locations through its nation wide network of volunteers to improve the health status of vulnerable community members.

A pilot project which started in 2003 has developed into a model Myanmar Red Cross Society project for comprehensive community-based health activities. The project is implemented by the MRCS in the Keng Tung township of Eastern Shan State in both urban and rural areas, funded by Australian RC and coordinated by the Federation delegation.

Activities introduced to the local population through community based first aid, the pioneer project of HIV prevention, care and support initiatives in urban areas, to broader based health activities in rural areas addresses the local communities identified priority health concerns. Over the past four years the project has improved community access to water, sanitation conditions, local health knowledge of common health issues such as malaria, acute respiratory infection and awareness concerning HIV and AIDS. The project recognizes the need to harness and build the capacity of the local community to address their own needs and promote self reliance.

Components and Activities

Specific Objective
To improve ability to respond to HIV in vulnerable urban communities and their associated mobile population (including PLHIV, FSW, their clients and at risk youth).

To improve ability to respond to rural community health issues including malaria, hygiene and tuberculosis.

To increase ability of Keng Tung Red Cross Branch to plan, manage and evaluate effective community based program.

Activities
- Awareness raising activities and health promotion on HIV and AIDS, Tuberculosis, Malaria and Water borne diseases
- Support safe water supplies and sanitation facilities construction
- Referral to supportive health services
- Increase access to HIV care and support
- Supply of supportive materials such as basic first aid equipment, bed nets, condoms.
- Capacity building of local communities

Target beneficiaries
General population, with particular focus upon People Living with HIV (PLHIV) and vulnerable population groups

Timeline
2003 May to 2009 June

Target Areas (location)
Keng Tung Township (located close to borders of China, Laos and Thailand).
Project focus in all five wards of Keng Tung (total population 45,000) and surrounding 30 villages of 3 village tracts Loi Mwe, Mong Khun and Yang Kha (total population 6,315).

Partners
Funding – AusAID through Australian Red Cross and IFRC

Collaborative – Department of Health, National AIDS Program, Population Services International(PSI), World Vision