For almost two decades, the United Nations has been in the forefront of the world’s struggle against AIDS.

To help publicize this effort, the United Nations Postal Administration has issued a set of three stamps and three semi-postal souvenir sheets on the theme of AIDS Awareness. The vertical stamps feature a view of the UN building in New York with the AIDS emblem in front.

The UNPA says the total effort of all UN organizations is called UNAIDS. The goal of UNAIDS is to orchestrate the unique expertise, resources and influence of the various groups with all governments, media, religious organizations and networks of people living with HIV-AIDS to combat the problem.

For the first time in the UNPA’s history, three semi-postal souvenir sheets have been issued. A semi-postal stamp costs more than a regular stamp and is issued to raise funds in support of a designated cause or charity. The additional amount added to the postage rate for this issue will go to the global fund on AIDS which was established in 2001 by the United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan.

Collectors can obtain the UNAIDS stamps by placing a credit card order at (800)-234-UNPA. To order by mail, write to United Nations Postal Administration, PO Box 5900, Grand Central Station, New York, NY, 10163-5900.