Grannies take it off in support of HIV orphans

Twelve grandmothers from the diocese of Ontario have taken off their clothes for a 2009 calendar to raise funds for the Grandmothers to Grandmothers campaign, which helps support African grandmothers who are taking care of their grandchildren orphaned by HIV-AIDS.

“This is a good, fun calendar and the money they raise will save lives, secure lives, and make a tremendous difference to the children and grandmothers in many communities,” said Stephen Lewis, whose foundation launched the Grandmothers to Grandmothers campaign, which now has 200 chapters. The campaign has raised more than $3 million.

“The grandmothers are unleashed and they are not inclined to be orthodox in what they do,” said Mr. Lewis of the calendar project, which became a reality with the help of Belleville photographer Bob House.

The grandmothers, who call themselves Quinte Grannies for Africa, are selling 4,000 of these calendars at $20 each.

For information on how to join the group or order the calendar, please visit the Web site, www.quintegrannies.ca or contact [email protected]