BOISE -- This Valentine's Day you can help people living with AIDS or HIV in our community by bidding on artwork.
The 19th annual Valentine For AIDS Silent Art Auction is going on right now at the Flying M coffeehouse in downtown Boise.
The money raised helps provide grocery vouchers and emergency financial assistance for people in southern Idaho who have HIV or AIDS.
More than 250 artists are participating in the auction.
"One of the coolest things about the Valentine for AIDS is the fact that you will get people from so many different skill levels," said Flying M barista Matthew Baltzell. "You'll get a lot of famous Boise professional artists right next to children's art, and it's so interesting to see all the different things Boise can show up with."
Last year, the event raised about $28,000.
According to Safety Net for AIDS Program, or SNAP, 93 people used $7,200 last year in grocery vouchers and 89 people used $13,947 in emergency financial assistance. They used the money to pay medical costs, rent, utility bills and transportation costs.
Organizers say since this year's auction started Feb. 2, it has raised about $14,000.
You still have time to bid in the silent auction. It runs through this coming Sunday afternoon, Feb. 12.
