A local haven for those suffering with AIDS is once again in financial trouble. Monday, those who operate Ricky's Retreat asked for donations to permanently maintain a semblance of normalcy for residents living with AIDS.
The yellow home known as Ricky's Retreat is more than just a place to stay. It's home for those battling AIDS. It's those people who need your help.
"'You know, 20 bucks. $4,000 or give us 20 bucks and we would be there. That's pretty do-able," said Katy Glentzer a volunteer for Ricky's Retreat.
It's more than do-able.
It's what is necessary in order for Ricky's Retreat to keep serving those most in need, people dying of AIDS.
"When my daughter died of AIDS in 1993, she was fortunate enough to have a very loving, supportive family," said City Councilwoman Jacquie Sullivan. Something not every AIDS patient has.
But those who don't, have found hope and support at Ricky's Retreat. The residents could face eviction after the property owner defaulted on the mortgage.
The eviction date is April 24, but Audrey Chavez and her team are trying to purchase the home outright.
"We can keep this home, and it can be the critical necessary resource that it has been for 6 1/2 years," said Audrey Chavez with the Bakersfield AIDS Project.
But they need your help. Digger Helm, who lost his son to AIDS, was the first to donate. He Donated $10,000 on behalf of his son Marshall Red Helm.
They're looking to raise $90,000 over the next two-three weeks, with the bulk of it coming from the public.
AIDS Project Bakersfield is a non profit organization that runs Ricky's Retreat. If the group raises $90,000, it could be enough to purchase the home outright.
Audrey Chavez says she'll be giving up her lunches, so her extra cash can go to the cause. But that's what we have to do. We have to sacrifice for the things that are important. This family here. These people that are housed here at Ricky's Retreat are worth it."
According to Chavez, Ricky's Retreat has already been receiving emails and donations from as far away as San Francisco.
If you would like to donate you can go to www.bakersfieldaidsproject.org, or you can call 872-9090.
