| Abstract: | ![]()
In 1993 Maria Mathes, a Pecos, New Mexico teacher, started an innovative educational program by using letter writing as part of the sixth-grade English curriculum. Mathes had her class write letters to people in the news. Based on a People magazine article, the class began writing to an 11-year-old Chicago girl living with AIDS, named Whitney Williams. This started a friendship and support system for children with HIV or AIDS, called the Whitney Project. During the school year, the class held fundraisers to allow Whitney and her family to visit, and she was treated to celebrations throughout the town. The program was expanded the following year, and continues, despite funding problems in the past. Through this program AIDS-affected children get the chance to express their feelings and students learn about HIV/AIDS. There is no cost to participate, and confidentiality can be protected. Contact information is provided, along with details for ordering a video describing the program. |
