Obstacles and Options to Faith-Based HIV Service Delivery to Low-Income Inner City Residents

Abstract

The growing presence of HIV in urban communities with sizable Black commuter congregations demands that social service providers understand niche opportunities for faith-based HIV service delivery. Focus groups were conducted with 16 clergy serving commuter congregations about the feasibility of faith-based HIV service delivery to low-income residents. Using thematic analysis, four major themes emerged: (a) Clergy see the need, but are not sure how to proceed; (b) prioritized sin; (c) push-back; and (d) niche ministries. These findings contribute new knowledge to our understanding of how Black churches with commuter congregations can respond to HIV service needs of low-income residents. Findings from this study suggest that commuter congregations are less likely to support HIV-related activities. Implications for future interventions are discussed.