Though Kerala is a highly literate society AIDS awareness level in the state is comparatively low. In most cases AIDS affected people faces social stigma and are isolated from the society leading them to commit suicide. As per the Government estimate there are about 1.5 lacs HIV/ AIDS infected people in Kerala at present. The impact of AIDS among poor is very high, due to lack of awareness, access of medical services, diagnoses and treatment, a majority of them remain undiagnosed and untreated.

Santhwana Care and Counseling program promoted by ESAF aims to reach out to those affected by HIV / AIDS. By giving them proper counseling we make them more active and instill more confidence in them. Our Care and Counseling staff give frequent visits to their homes to inspire in them ‘hope' for a better tomorrow. Moreover, we help them by providing medicines and support them by offering opportunities to carry out livelihood activities.