HIV/AIDS has hit Sub-Saharan Africa harder than any other world region -- destroying lives, deepening poverty and hampering the overall advancement of nations.  Africare is there, helping Africans to fight the epidemic through several programs.  Abdalla B. Meftuh, MD, MPH is currently providing technical assistance and back-stopping to Africare’s four-country (Mozambique, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda) COPE (Community-based Orphans Care, Protection and Empowerment) Project.  COPE aims to empower young children crippled by the loss of their parents and caretakers by giving both the children and the larger community the tools they need. The Africare work addresses basic needs like food, shelter, education, health care and age-appropriate income-generating activities. COPE is now active in four Southeastern African nations -- Mozambique, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda -- and aims to help 2 million orphans and vulnerable children and to strengthen their community care-giving networks. Easing their pain. Giving back the opportunities and support they need to succeed.