HOYMAS is the only key population-led organization in Kenya dedicated to addressing anal health issues among marginalized groups, particularly men who have sex with men (MSM), male sex workers, and LGBTQ+ individuals. Stigma and discrimination within the healthcare system create significant barriers to accessing care, leaving many individuals untreated. As Kenya’s primary referral center for anal health conditions, HOYMAS provides stigma-free care for a wide range of anal health problems, including anal warts, fissures, hemorrhoids, fistulas, and anal wounds. The increasing demand for services, however, has outpaced our limited resources, threatening our ability to continue offering these essential treatments.
Anal health issues, such as anal warts, fissures, and hemorrhoids, often go untreated, leading to chronic pain, increased risk of infections, and even anal cancer. HOYMAS provides comprehensive care, including both conservative treatments and surgical interventions for advanced conditions. We also offer post-operative care in safe recovery housing, ensuring individuals aren’t displaced or stigmatized during their recovery. Our clinic also provides integrated care with STI and HIV testing, mental health support, and referrals, but the growing demand means we need more resources to continue offering these services.
To sustain and expand our work, HOYMAS is seeking funding through the Rustin Fund to support the following needs:
- Surgical interventions for individuals with advanced anal health conditions, including anal warts, fissures, hemorrhoids, and other diseases.
- Essential drugs and medications for managing and treating anal diseases, including analgesics, topical treatments, and medications for pain and infection management.
- Expansion of our safe recovery housing program to offer secure spaces for individuals recovering from surgery, preventing displacement or stigma.
- Enhanced mental health services to provide psychological support for individuals affected by anal health issues.
- Cascade of HOYMAS’s anal health model to other GBMSM and key population-led clinics across Kenya, reducing the need for constant referrals and expanding access to care.
- Dissemination of the newly developed anal health tools, SOPs, and guidelines, including funding for training and sensitization across clinics to ensure widespread adoption and high-quality care.
Your support can help us scale our model, reduce referrals, and ensure equitable access to life-saving anal health care for marginalized communities.
“The board of directors retains discretion over the use of funds.”