The Punjab AIDS Control Program (PACP) and NGO-Akhuwat signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for provision of free healthcare services for transgender at Fountain House, Lower Mall, here on Monday. As part of the agreement, the Punjab AIDS Control will set up treatment and counselling facility at Fountain House where free tests for Hepatitis-B, Hepatitis-C, Syphilis, STIs, vaccination of Hepatitis and treatment of Hepatitis C will be provided to all transgender.

Executive Director Akhuwat Dr Amjad Saqib said, "The AKhuwat Khawaja Sara Rehabilitation Programme is catering to transgender of over 50 age group, providing them medical services and stipends. The Punjab AIDS Control Program has come forward for a great cause and we hope that that by joint efforts will help alleviate the sufferings of these poorest of the poor."

Programme Director Punjab AIDS Control Programme and Additional Secretary (Admin) Primary and Secondary Healthcare Department Dr Adnan Zafar, said, "The PACP has been trying to reach out to marginalized communities. Akhuwat Khawaja Sara Rehab Programme has done great services and we hope if we team up, we can bring more people and provide them with medical and healthcare support." As part of the Programme, all Khawaja Sara (transgender) of 50 plus gathered at Fountain House where on voluntary basis, they are provided counselling medical services and stipends.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2017