Utica, NY (WIBX) - December 1st is World AIDS Day--a global movement that calls for heightened efforts to educate the public about the continued threat of becoming infected with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), the virus that causes AIDS. In Oneida County, AIDS Community Resources is marking World AIDS Day with a service of Remembrance and Hope at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Utica. The service starts at 5PM and all are welcome to attend.

AIDS Community Resources is a non-profit organization charged with educating the public about HIV and AIDS. The group also helps with referrals, direct services and advocacy for area residents. The overall goal of World AIDS Day is to encourage people to know the risks, get tested, and to speak out about the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS. Also, to get involved in community efforts to educate and assist those in need find services aimed at helping them, and stopping the spread of the disease.

According to the Center for Disease Control, 56,000 people become infected with HIV each year in the U.S. and globally, 33 million are living with the virus. In an effort to draw attention to the global epidemic, the CDC along with other organizations such as the President's Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (PEPFAR) program, are also marking World AIDS Day. The two groups reaffirmed their resolve to continue their work to prevent the spread of the virus and help treat those infected with it have access to treatment, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa where the need for treatment and education surpasses all other groups. Today, scientific research continues worldwide to find a cure for HIV/AIDS.

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