
In Alabama, more than 16,000 people are living with AIDS. Nationwide, one in seven individuals with HIV is unaware of their status. And many of those are experiencing chronic homelessness. But through comprehensive support services — with housing as a cornerstone — AIDS Alabama strives to enhance the well-being and stability of individuals living with HIV/AIDS.
Housing First: A Path to Stability
AIDS Alabama, a United Way of Central Alabama (UWCA) partner agency, embraces the philosophy that housing is healthcare.
“A Housing First approach helps provide the first step of stability for people experiencing chronic homelessness,” said Heather Rauckman, Executive Director of AIDS Alabama.
This Housing First approach provides a stable foundation enabling individuals to focus on their health and personal goals in a secure and supportive environment. Offering a range of housing options, AIDS Alabama tailors its programs to meet the diverse needs of its clients. Services include emergency shelter, rapid re-housing, permanent supportive housing and rental assistance — all aimed at fostering long-term stability and well-being.
“We are proud of the housing work we provide because we believe housing is healthcare. It is our mission to prevent the spread of new transmissions, and we are seeing housing as a crucial service if we hope to move the needle toward eliminating new HIV transmissions,” said Rauckman.
Landlords Are Key

AIDS Alabama’s programs rely on strong connections and partnerships with private landlords who are willing to work with younger clients regardless of credit or rental history. They ensure that all youth are treated with the same respect as adults and are supported in realizing their goals and potential.
LGBTQ youth often encounter unique challenges, such as rejection from family or friends, when seeking housing. To address these barriers, AIDS Alabama launched the Ascension Project, a very specifically designed rapid re-housing program.
“We are seeing an increasing number of LGBTQ youth, and earning their trust can be challenging due to past experiences of rejection,” said Rauckman. By building strong relationships with landlords and treating all youth with dignity, the program empowers young individuals to achieve stability and work toward their goals.
Comprehensive Support Services
AIDS Alabama’s housing programs, including Ascension, LeTransclusive and the Way Station Transitional Housing, are part of the Jefferson County Housing Authority’s Continuum of Care. Individuals seeking support go through the coordinated entry process by contacting One Roof to complete an assessment. Individuals may be placed on a waitlist for eligible programs.
Once housed, AIDS Alabama ensures clients have access to a full range of supportive services designed to promote independence. The Ascension and Way Station Rapid Re-Housing programs offer financial assistance for up to 12 months and case management, including essential life skills such as budgeting and housing stability, for up to 18 months.
In addition, The Way Station Emergency Shelter serves young adults aged 19 to 29, who are homeless, and individuals of any age who are living with HIV. This one-time overnight shelter offers daily intake starting at 3 p.m. with required exit by 8:30 a.m. the next morning. Bed availability is determined through a lottery system, and guests receive a hot meal, hygiene supplies, optional case management services and access to laundry facilities and a clothing closet.
How You Can Help
Community support is crucial to the success of AIDS Alabama’s mission. Individuals and businesses can contribute through financial donations, purchasing items from the Way Station Emergency Shelter’s Amazon Wish List or donating clothing and household goods. Property owners and landlords are also encouraged to partner with AIDS Alabama to provide critical housing opportunities.
By addressing both housing and healthcare needs, AIDS Alabama is making a lasting impact on the lives of individuals living with HIV/AIDS in Central Alabama, ensuring they have the resources and support they need to thrive.