Our Programs and Services

Siloam offers a full range of services that address the mental, emotional, physical and spiritual needs of people living with and/or affected by HIV/AIDS, in a supportive, compassionate and safe setting. Some of the services are particularly geared to those who are HIV positive and others are open to family and friends of infected persons, and providers of services to the HIV/AIDS community. These programs can be categorized as support, education, complementary therapies, retreats and social events. 

If you are visiting Siloam for the first time we encourage you to call for an orientation to our services and tour of our facility. Or plan to arrive 15-30 minutes prior to attending an activity. Please call us at 215-765-6633 for more information

There is no charge for most of our services; however, donations are greatly appreciated.  Siloam offers a variety of programs and services that work in conjunction with traditional medical care. Clients are welcome to attend those programs they feel would be most helpful. Please see the monthly calendar for specific dates and times for activities. Note: reiki, massage, reflexology, pastoral counseling and spiritual direction are not listed since these are all by appointment.

I.  SUPPORT

One-to-one pastoral counseling and spiritual direction are offered to assist persons living with or affected by HIV/AIDS. Pastoral Counseling addresses both mental health and spiritual issues using a holistic approach to body mind and spirit.

Spiritual Direction with a trained spiritual director honors one’s deepest spirit and desires, looks purposefully at one’s life and can result in a new and renewed sense of wholeness and wellness.

Support and discussion groups are facilitated by trained professionals who allow people to share experiences and concerns with others who understand in a safe, confidential and compassionate setting.

 * One-to-One sessions (either face-to-face or by phone): by appointment

 * Weekly support group for men and women with HIV/AIDS

II.  EDUCATION

Providing programs to educate those who are both infected and affected help increase participants’ understanding of HIV and empower them to take a more active part in their medical treatment, manage side effects, develop a healthful lifestyle and maintain overall wellness.

Lunch and Learn: 1-2 programs per month presented by both staff and invited experts. These informative sessions are on topics related to HIV, related medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, lipodystrophy and hepatitis C), psychological issues (e.g., depression and anger), relationship issues (e.g., family matters and dating), and life skills (e.g., financial matters, legal issues and employment).

Nutrition:

* Nutrition Matters – People with HIV/AIDS frequently develop conditions that require a special diet. These sessions, taught by a registered dietician, help participants understand the importance of good nutrition and learn about topics related to HIV, such as high cholesterol, side effects from medications, and eating well for less help .

Newcomer Meetings: Monthly meetings presented by program and outreach staffs that provide a comprehensive understanding of Siloam’s mission, programs, and how to access services.

III. COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES

Research is increasing providing evidence of how complementary therapies can improve overall wellness, strengthen the immune system, reduce stress and enhance the mental outlook for people with HIV. For example, massage relaxes muscles, increases circulation and releases tension; Reiki increases energy flow and restores balance by focusing on the body’s energy field; Tai Chi improves balance and focus, and Yoga increases flexibility, lowers blood pressure, improves mood and enhances breathing.  Yoga and Tai Chi are offered as weekly, ongoing classes. No previous experience or registration is necessary and you can start at any time. Siloam offers massage, reiki, and reflexology on an individual basis and clients may schedule one appointment per month. Please note that body work is provided by certified practitioners who volunteer their time. Our ability to offer these services is dependent on their availability.

Body Work: Classes

Yoga – Monday, 5:30 – 6:30 PM

Tai Chi – Wednesday, 5:30 – 6:30 PM

Meditation: Meditation has been shown to enhance immune system functioning by increasing CD4 counts. A three session workshop on meditation techniques was held in May, 2010.

IV.  RETREATS

Siloam’s Retreats integrate mind, body and sprit by providing creative, educational, supportive and wellness modalities to address the multiplicity of health, social and emotional needs of people living with HIV/AIDS and their caregivers (family, friends and providers). In additional to the off-site 3-day retreats, one-day retreats provide on-going support and reinforcement for those who have been on a 3-day retreat. One day retreats also provide an experience for individuals who are unable to participate in an off-site, multi-day program. Registration is required.

V. SOCIAL ACTIVITIES AND SPECIAL EVENT

Activities for individuals and families that provide an opportunity for socialization and camaraderie are held throughout the year.

Halloween Party: Held on the Saturday morning before Halloween, this event attracts children who are either infected or living in families affected by HIV.

Siloam Wellness Camp: This day camp is for three days during the summer. Children experience enriching activities such as kid’s yoga, actor’s studio, movement, meditation and art that will nourish and support them to shine, shine, shine! Camp Siloam is staffed by experienced teachers who believe that true wellness comes from having   fun and sharing who we are.

Beauty Beholds Beauty: This one-day trip to Longwood Gardens is open to HIV positive individuals, families and providers.