A Brief History of Harlem United
Not so long ago, people living with HIV/AIDS in Harlem had virtually no place to turn to for care. In response to the community’s cries for help, two men and a Jesuit priest embarked on a small personal mission to assist those in need. Thus, in 1988 Harlem United was born. Initially called the Upper Room AIDS Ministry, Harlem United was only able to offer limited services at first: support groups; hot meals, and HIV-treatment education.
However, Harlem United created such a safe, respectful, and healing environment that our clients soon began to call us “home”. This collaborative and caring community remains at the core of Harlem United and all the services we provide.
Today, Harlem United serves clients from East Harlem to the Bronx. Including our testing and outreach programs, we now reach 10,000 people each year. One of the most important and innovative organizations in Upper Manhattan and the Bronx, Harlem United currently employs over 150 full-time staff and has become a national model of comprehensive care in a community-based setting.
