About Columbia CARES
Columbia CARES began serving the South Central Region of Middle Tennessee in 1992. As the regions only AIDS-Service Organization we focus on prevention, testing and social services for those living with HIV/AIDS.
We are a United Way of Maury County partner and also receive funding from the Tennessee Department of Health, United Way of Metro Nashville, City of Columbia, First Presbyterian Church of Columbia, TN, Baptist Healing Trust, Broadway Care/Equity Fights AIDS as well as many generous individuals and groups.
HIV Prevention
Columbia CARES HIV prevention programs are designed to meet the needs of your audience. We provide school-based programs following the Tennessee Department of Education/CDC guidelines as well as your school expectations for program content. Programs may be tailored for a small audience as well as a larger inservice. All programs are free of charge.
For more info contact Mandy: 931.381.0114 ext 13 or mandysykes@columbiacares.org
Rapid HIV Testing
Columbia CARES offers Rapid HIV Testing for individuals as well as groups. We utilize the OraQuick oral swab method which provides fast and accurate results. Results are 99.3% and available within 20 minutes. Pre and Post test counseling is available at the time of testing. The OraQuick test is mobile therefore CARES is an excellent choice for your health and wellness fare. Call ahead/Walk-in testing is provided at the CARES facility Monday - Friday from 9-4:30 or you can schedule an appointment for weekday evenings after 5:00 by calling Tim. All testing services are free.
For more info or to schedule an appointment:
Mandy - 931.381.0114 ext 13 or mandysykes@columbiacares.org
Tim - 931.381.0114 ext 12 or timjones@columbiacares.org
Social Service for People Living With HIV/AIDS
Columbia CARES offers a variety of services for people living with HIV/AIDS. Our goal is to provide or help a person access services that will enhance their quality of life. Services provided by CARES includes case management, client advocacy, nutrition assistance, transportation assistance, short-term rent, mortgage, or utility assistance, and assistance with basic living needs. Eligibility is established by state, federal and/or funder guidelines. All social services are free and no client is required to volunteer for services rendered.
For case manager, gas cards, food cards, basic living needs, referrals contact:
Jennifer, 931.381.0114 ext 14 or jennifermassey@columbiacares.org
For housing assistance-rent, mortgage, utility contact:
Letitia, 931.381.0114 ext 11 or letitiafranklin@columbiacares.org
For Ryan White certification, general client advocacy/service direction contact:
Mandy, 931.381.0114 ext 10 or mandysykes@columbiacares.org