Connections amidst Complications: An Evaluation of the Outreach Support Program at Positive Women’s Network

Outreach support programs are part of the continuum of care for people living with HIV. The outcomes of these programs can be classified into two types: healthcare and non-healthcare services. Outreach support programs can help to overcome barriers to both types of services for people living with HIV. An evaluation of the outreach support program at Positive Women’s Network was done to capture the components and outcomes of the program. Interviews were conducted with the outreach support worker and five program participants. Results found that despite complications, the outreach support program was able to create meaningful connections with members of Positive Women’s Network. Program activities included providing aid with food, transportation, and housing, helping participants to access healthcare, providing support at appointments, and undertaking outreach to women in the federal prison. The evaluation findings are consistent with and build upon existing literature. More studies examining outreach support programs in different contexts are needed to further the body of literature and support for outreach programs.