The year of our founding, not too far from our kitchen, Ismael was two years into his HIV diagnosis. Each day, he rushed home from work at the Pacific Design Center to administer an IV drip to his partner Jorge, who was dying of AIDS. "It was a scary time because he was so sick, and all our friends were dying," Ismael reflects. One year later, the love of his life was gone forever.

Ismael wonders why he survived when so many others did not. There were times over the years, he thought he might not. Three months ago, as his health was declining, his doctor directed him to Project Angel Food, now his primary source of food. Living in a boarding house in South Los Angeles, he receives two medically tailored meals each day, which he heats on the stovetop because he doesn't have a microwave. "The food is so delicious," he says. "I don't know what I would do without Project Angel Food. I am grateful to be alive."

With support from donors like you, Project Angel Food has weathered the storms of the AIDS crisis and COVID and continues today—nourishing over 5,200 seriously ill people each year.

On this World AIDS Day, we invite you to honor those we've lost, support those living with HIV, and help people like Ismael find hope after a lifetime of pain and fear—by donating to Project Angel Food. Your generosity can make a profound difference.