SUPPORT FOR MANAGING LIFE WHILE LIVING WITH HIV

LIVING WITH HIV

We offer a safe, welcoming and affirming space for people infected and affected by HIV. CARES is the only place in TN where patients can access comprehensive HIV treatment and related HIV services under one roof.

SPECIALIZED HIV SUPPORT

From transportation and nutrition support to short-term housing assistance, our Case Managers are here to serve. We’ve been showing up on behalf of those living with HIV for 40 years. So we know firsthand exactly what kinds of help really are helpful. We can help you navigate the complex medical world more easily, connecting you directly to the specific types of care you need. This is true whether you’re recently diagnosed or have been living with HIV for decades.

Case Management

Case management services help people living with HIV access medical care, insurance, nutrition, transportation, housing, financial assistance, and other services needed to live a happy and healthy life. We provide Ryan White Eligibility Services both for CARES 360 patients and for those receiving care from other providers.

Nutrition

Clients living with HIV can shop the CARES Store for free produce, dry goods, canned goods and healthy snacks. Our popular Choice Pantry drive-up program offers even more convenience, along with conversation and support from our peer team. We keep a stock of emergency food on hand.

Transportation

Need to get to a medical appointment or pharmacy? CARES offers several transportation assistance options to clients living with HIV. From bus passes and gas cards to ridesharing programs across the region, we do all we can to make sure you’re as mobile as you need to be.

Housing Assistance

For clients living with HIV who meet eligibility guidelines, we provide short-term assistance with rent, mortgage and utilities. We can also help you locate affordable housing and apply for various housing programs. Unhoused clients may qualify for the Rapid Rehousing Program.

Insurance Assistance

Insurance assistance is available to Tennesseans enrolled in the Ryan White program who meet eligibility guidelines. This may cover the costs of medical insurance premiums, co-pays and deductibles. Just one more example of CARES helping clients navigate complex systems.

Early Intervention

Early Intervention Services (EIS) reduce barriers to HIV care for clients who are recently incarcerated, newly diagnosed with HIV, pregnant, or who have been out of HIV medical care for over a year. We also provide individuals who are incarcerated with pre-release counseling and linkage to care.

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HEALTHYU: KNOWLEDGE IS POWER.

Healthy University (HealthyU) offers a wide range of free educational programs and support groups designed specifically for those living with HIV. From understanding HIV to specialized peer groups, we treat every learner with dignity and respect. For details, call 615-259-4866 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

G.R.O.W.T.H. (Gaining Realistic Outcomes and Weaving-in Transformational Health)

Consists of two 16-week cohorts over the next two years. Partners include Orangetheory Fitness and the Nashville Black Wellness Collective. Activities include art and music therapy, nature walks, yoga, mindfulness, exercise, radical acceptance, and goal-setting.

Photo illustration of person with medicine for the "Ask-A-Pharmacist" section of HealthyU at Nashville Cares.

M.A.L.E.S. (Men Advocating Life Education Support)

Have a good talk. Meet some new guys. The only requirement is that you are living with HIV and identify as male. We talk about relationships, our lives, politics, social media, love, and of course any HIV-related issues.

Express Yourself: Opening Pandora’s Box

A welcoming and open vibe session for those who identify as male. You can present individual poetry or spoken word, or simply hang out and appreciate the expressive nature of others. Emotions, suppressed thoughts and various points of view can all be shared freely.

S.W.E.E.T. (Strong Women Empowering Each Other Together)

Ideal for any woman who’s looking for ways to connect with others living with HIV, but doesn’t know where to start. This group provides a safe space that affirms and celebrates who we are as women. All discussions are confidential.

Under Construction (Substance Misuse)

This group is specifically to help people living with HIV who are also struggling with alcohol or drug use. It provides a safe, judgment-free opportunity to learn and share the kinds of recovery skills that can lead to better living. Virtual meetings also available.

Start Here

This 90-minute course covers the basics of living with HIV successfully. It’s a great starting point, whether someone is infected or affected. Family, friends and partners are all welcome. All attendees must register in advance. Virtual meetings available.

I Am Strong

What are your true strengths? What are your inner resources? This one is all about developing a plan you can use as your personal roadmap for moving forward in your life. We want to help you make better decisions and approach each new day with a healthier outlook.

Healthy Relationships

This fun, engaging three-session program equips you with effective problem-solving and decision-making skills designed to reduce stress around disclosure. Each two-hour session combines teaching, group discussion and movie clips. Advance registration and assessment required. Virtual meetings also available.

Ask-a-Pharmacist

Talk with a trained pharmacist about medications, HIV care and other pharmacy-related topics. Monthly, with virtual meetings quarterly. We also have a growing library of online videos and other helpful resources.

TAP INTO THE STRENGTH OF COMMUNITY.

Whatever challenges you may be facing, there’s no substitute for the power of human connection. We offer all kinds of free support groups designed to help all kinds of people. Some gatherings are in-person, others are virtual. For details, call 615-259-4866.

The B Side

This group focuses on social support by networking with others living with HIV. It’s a great way to build community, learn about local resources and create a bonding space to share experiences and solutions for living your best life after a positive HIV diagnosis.

Artsy Hearts

Here’s a fun in-person social activity where people can learn new skills and enjoy sharing creativity. Designed specifically for people living with HIV, this group focuses on improving mental health and promoting well-being through expression and achievement.

S.E.T. Group Meeting (Support, Encourage, Trust)

This is all about building community and strengthening the connections of sisterhood, with special attention on breaking down the isolation and stigma that may come from living with HIV. Includes biweekly calls with peers from within the network, plus monthly meetings.

E.P.I.C. (Empowering Positive Influence in Communities)

If you’re living with HIV, we want to empower you with the tools, knowledge and skills needed to become an influential leader, mentor and member of your community. We talk about ways we can all improve and inspire change, working from the local level on up.

Peer Check-in

A great opportunity to discuss any issues relating to HIV, along with anything else going on in your life. Enjoy the fellowship as we talk about our relationships, our lives, politics, social media, love, etc. Share as much or as little as you want (or just kick back and listen).

Silver Strong

A safe, supportive forum especially for people aged 50 and older who are living with HIV. We’ll discuss health issues, learn effective ways to deal with stigma, educate family and friends, and talk about dating and relationships. Bring your life experiences and your questions.

Spiritual Connection

This group focuses on healing, empowerment and real-world tools for living successfully with HIV. It’s designed to promote hope and healing while addressing many of today’s physical, mental and spiritual challenges. Based on broad principles that transcend all religions.

PsIR. – Peers In Research

A group specifically for people living with HIV who want to serve as ‘community researchers,’ using their lived experience to assist other researchers in developing and designing research tools as well as collecting and analyzing data. All discussions are confidential.