In 1988, at the height of the initial wave of the HIV/AIDS epidemic two men and a Jesuit priest founded the Upper Room AIDS Ministry in response to the community’s cries for help. By 1995, the organization was renamed Harlem United Community AIDS Center, Inc. to reflect the inclusion of anyone in need. Unfortunately, this need is still very present.

Their clients deal with social and institutional barriers making it much harder for them to get the help they need. Established providers refused to provide their clients the care they desperately need, like housing, primary care, mental health, testing, health education and more. They founded Harlem United out of necessity. Specifically serving people living with HIV/AIDS who are homeless and/or suffer from mental illness, substance use, or social stigma related to their sexuality, gender or HIV status, Harlem United is the last resort for medically-under served communities of color in Harlem.

They are about to open their newest site which will serve the entire community as a healthcare clinic for everyone, located on 133rd St between Lenox Ave and Adam Clayton Powell Blvd.