Manchester’s Gay Village raises HIV funds
Manchester’s Biggest Ever World AIDS Festival raised over £20,000 for HIV related charities.
Events took place between 24th November and 7th December across Manchester city centre to raise funds for local HIV good causes.
Under the banner Red Wild, volunteers worked tirelessly over the two-week period either side of World Aids Day to raise more than £20,000 for HIV/AIDS related charities and organisations across Manchester.
Manchester’s gay village held over 30 different events including one at the AXM Bar which raised 2237.27.
A fashion show was held at The Printworks on 7TH December called ‘Fire and Ice’, which raised £3,500.
Over 400 venues across Manchester City Centre also helped in the fundraising efforts by selling red ribbons. The Department for Work Pensions in the north also raised £1,264.47 for the initiative.
The annual Candlelit Vigil on 1st December at The UK’s only HIV monument The Beacon of Hope, Sackville Park was supported by Manchester Lesbian and Gay Chorus, Coronation Street star Julie Hesmondhalgh, Manchester city Cllr Paul Fairweather and HIV positive speakers from many different communities.
Emma Peate, Operation Fundraiser Project Manager, at the Lesbian and Gay Foundation, said: “Once again Manchester has come together to raise awareness and lots of money for HIV/AIDS good causes. A huge thank-you to everyone who held a fundraiser and of course to our fantastic volunteers who once again worked so hard over the festival.
“Without their support it would be impossible to achieve this fantastic amount. And finally a big thank you to everyone who bought a red ribbon, or attended an event and gave so generously your generosity will help those affected with HIV here in Manchester.”