Costa del Sol AIDS charity Concordia receives financial support from Marbella Council

IT was 25 years ago that Princess Marie Louise of Prussia, a long term resident of Marbella (who with husband Count Rudi helped put the city on the quality tourist map) set up the Association Concordia Antisida.

It is one of the only charities on the Costa del Sol which is dedicated to help those infected by AIDS/HIV and from its base in San Pedro Alcantara not only spreads the word concerning safe sex but also assists those who are affected and even arranges tests for those who fear the worst.

In recognition of the work of all of its staff and supporters and in acknowledgement of Word Aids Day (December 1), the Marbella Council has entered into an agreement whereby it will help support the charity with a payment of €114,000.

As a small charity which also assists those living on the streets by offering food and washing facilities as well  as supporting families of those who are HIV positive, Concordia needs funds to keep offering the professional psychological and educational services that it does.

AIDS/HIV is controllable and can be managed with the proper advice but is now no longer a problem encountered by mainly homosexuals in Spain but has become more prevalent amongst young heterosexuals so part of its work now is to speak to students and warn them of the dangers.

On Thursday December 5, they are holding their annual St Nikolaus Ball at the Puente Romano Hotel which is another means of generating significant funds in order to allow the charity to continue its important work.

To find out more about its work visit http://www.concordiamarbella.com/english.