UF CARES

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UF CARES

HIV/AIDS program providing compassionate and comprehensive care to help End the HIV Epidemic UF CARES also provides access to research and clinical trials.

The University of Florida Center for HIV/AIDS Research, Education and Service (UF CARES) is a leader in providing innovative care and quality services to people living with HIV/AIDS in Northeast Florida and Southern Georgia. Located in the urban core of Jacksonville, UF CARES has been serving men, women, children, adolescents, partners, and families with HIV/AIDS since 1988. We are the only HIV pr

ogram in North Florida recognized by the National Committee on Quality Assurance (NCQA) as a Patient-Centered Medical Home which means that the we are a one stop service center where patients can participate in medical care, case management, specialty care, and other core support services in a single coordinated visit. This multidisciplinary approach is further strengthened through our strong collaborative network with other agencies in the community that provide services and assistance to people living with HIV/AIDS. Our team of adult and pediatric medical providers and support staff continuously strive to provide quality services in a culturally competent, patient-centered model and we believe no individual should be limited in their potential by HIV/AIDS. Our Mission:
- To decrease transmission of HIV
- To Enhance the quality of life by providing compassionate, comprehensive care for children, adults, adolescents and families affected by HIV
- To Increase awareness and understanding of HIV through leadership, service and education

Our Vision:
To provide quality comprehensive care to those infected, exposed, and affected by HIV/AIDS

Our Values:
Dignity, quality, respect and cultural competency in serving those impacted by HIV/AIDS

20/08/2025

Southern HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (SHAAD) is recognized on August 20th as a day that individuals, communities, and organizations can unite to call attention to the disproportionate number of people living with HIV in the South. SHAAD is an opportunity to provide people in the South with HIV testing and linkage to HIV medical care if necessary, education on HIV prevention, including ways to stop HIV stigma, and other HIV-related care resources.

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07/08/2025

August at UF CARES: Empowerment, Awareness, and Action

As summer winds down, August reminds us to stay proactive about our health and uplift our community. At UF CARES, we’re committed to providing compassionate HIV care, support services, and education that empower individuals and families to thrive.

This month, we’re focusing on:
🔹Back-to-school readiness for families impacted by HIV
🔹 Women’s Equality Day (Aug 26) – celebrating resilience and access to care
🔹 Mental wellness and self-care strategies for clients and caregivers.

💬 Whether you're seeking services, resources, or just a safe space to talk—UF CARES is here for you. Let’s keep the momentum going and make August a month of connection and care.

21/07/2025

On Monday, July 21, 2025, we join the world in celebrating Zero HIV Stigma Day—a day set aside on the birthday of South African activist Prudence Mabele to honor her legacy and remind us that ending HIV stigma is a fight for human rights.

This year’s theme, “HIV Stigma Warriors,” calls on every one of us to confront harmful myths, challenge discriminatory language, and uplift the voices of people living with HIV. Together, we can ensure everyone has the dignity, support, and access to care they deserve.

Here’s how you can be a Stigma Warrior on July 21:

1) Speak Up: Share facts like U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable) and correct misinformation when you see it.

2) Show Support: Post your story or a message of solidarity—use the hashtags below so others can find you.

3) Take Action: Volunteer, donate, or attend a local event focused on HIV education and testing.

4) Listen & Learn: Center the experiences of people living with HIV; their voices lead the way.

21/07/2025

Zero HIV Stigma Day is recognized on July 21st to represent a movement to unite people, communities, and countries to help raise awareness about HIV stigma and ways to end it. Stigma and discrimination remain significant barriers to effective HIV prevention and treatment efforts. It can prevent individuals from accessing HIV testing, treatment, and support services, and can hinder their ability to lead healthy and productive lives. By addressing stigma and discrimination, we can create empowering environments that promote human rights, increase access to HIV services, and improve health outcomes for all individuals affected by HIV/AIDS.

14/07/2025

July is National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. This month, we shine a light on the unique mental health struggles faced by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities.

Created in honor of author and advocate Bebe Moore Campbell, this month is about more than awareness—it’s about action, access, and equity. Many people in minority communities face barriers to care, stigma around mental health, and a lack of culturally competent services. It’s time to change that.

Here’s how you can be part of the movement this July:

1) Educate yourself on how culture, identity, and history impact mental health

2) Speak up against stigma and harmful stereotypes

3) Support organizations doing the work in underserved communities

4) Check in on your loved ones—and yourself

Mental health is health. And healing should never depend on the color of your skin, your zip code, or your income.

Let’s uplift every voice and create a world where mental wellness is a right, not a privilege.

03/07/2025

In observance of the holiday UF CARES will be closed on Friday. Have a happy and safe 4th of July weekend!

27/06/2025

June 27th is National HIV Testing Day (NHTD). First observed on June 27, 1995, this is a day to encourage people to get tested for HIV, know their status, and get linked to care and treatment. Knowing your HIV status helps you choose options to stay healthy. For negative HIV results that can mean taking advantage of HIV prevention tools such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), condoms, and other sexual health services such as vaccines and testing for sexually transmitted infections. For positive HIV results that means rapidly starting HIV treatment to stay healthy. UF CARES offers free and confidential rapid HIV testing at our main clinic located at 655 W. 8th street on the 3rd floor (M-F, 8 AM - 4 PM). You can also access the same services from our mobile unit which goes out into the community. Show yourself some love - get tested today!

25/06/2025

🎗️ World Vitiligo Day | All Are Beautiful 💜
Today, we stand in solidarity with the millions of people around the world living with vitiligo—a condition that causes loss of pigment in the skin, but never in the spirit. Vitiligo is not just a medical condition—it's a powerful reminder that beauty comes in all shades, patterns, and stories. No one should ever feel the need to hide who they are.

25/06/2025

Take the Test. Take Control. On National HIV Testing Day, UF CARES encourages everyone to take one simple step toward a healthier future: get tested for HIV.

Knowing your HIV status puts you in control—of your health, your relationships, and your peace of mind. Whether you test negative or positive, there are resources, support, and treatment options ready for you.

🧪 Free. Fast. Confidential. - UF CARES offers compassionate testing every day—because everyone deserves to know and be supported.

📍 Call (904) 244-2120 for information on free HIV testing

💬 Let’s break the stigma and protect our community—one test at a time.

23/06/2025

National HIV Testing Day 2025: Empowering Communities Through Knowledge and Action

Every year on June 27, communities across the United States observe National HIV Testing Day (NHTD)—a day dedicated to encouraging people to get tested for HIV, know their status, and take charge of their health. In 2025, this observance continues to play a vital role in the nation’s efforts to end the HIV epidemic.

➡ Why It Matters

As of 2023, approximately 1.2 million people in the U.S. were living with HIV, and about 13% of them were unaware of their status. Early detection through testing is the first step toward accessing life-saving treatment and preventing transmission. NHTD serves as a powerful reminder that knowing your status is self-care—and a critical act of community responsibility.

➡ This Year’s Focus

The 2025 theme builds on recent messaging that emphasizes self-love, empowerment, and access. It encourages individuals to take control of their health by getting tested and supporting others to do the same. With more testing options than ever—including free self-test kits, rapid testing at local clinics, and community-based events—getting tested is easier and more accessible.

How to Participate
• Get Tested: Visit gettested.cdc.gov to find free or low-cost testing near you.
• Spread the Word: Use the hashtag to raise awareness on social media.
• Host or Attend Events: Many local health departments and organizations offer walk-in testing, educational sessions, and giveaways.
• Support Loved Ones: Encourage friends and family to get tested and talk openly about HIV prevention and care.

➡ A Path Forward

National HIV Testing Day is more than a date on the calendar—it’s a call to action. By normalizing testing, reducing stigma, and expanding access to care, we move closer to a future where HIV is no longer a public health threat.

For more information and resources, visit HIV.gov’s official NHTD page or Greater Than HIV.

20/06/2025

Nourishing for Two: The Power of Nutrition During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey — and nutrition plays a huge role in supporting both mom and baby every step of the way. Whether you're newly expecting or well into your third trimester, what you eat matters. Here's why:

➡ Why Nutrition Matters During Pregnancy:
• Baby's Growth: Every cell, organ, and feature your baby develops depends on the nutrients you provide.
• Mom’s Health: Proper nutrition helps reduce fatigue, manage weight gain, and lower the risk of complications.
• Future Benefits: Good habits now can lead to healthier outcomes for your child later in life.

➡ Pregnancy Superfoods:
• Leafy Greens (Spinach, Kale): High in folate for brain and spine development.
• Eggs: Packed with protein and choline for baby’s brain health.
• Greek Yogurt: Rich in calcium and probiotics for bones and digestion.
• Berries: Antioxidants + fiber = a sweet and healthy treat.
• Salmon: A safe source of omega-3s to support baby’s brain and eyes.

➡ Foods to Limit or Avoid:
• Raw or undercooked meat and eggs
• Unpasteurized dairy
• Certain fish high in mercury (like swordfish)
• Too much caffeine (stick to

Address

655 W 8th Street, 3rd Floor
FL
32209

Opening Hours

Monday	08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday	08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday	08:00 - 17:00
Thursday	08:00 - 17:00
Friday	08:00 - 17:00

Telephone

+19042442120

Website

https://ufhealthjax.org/ufcares/, https://pediatrics.med.jax.ufl.edu/ufcares/

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