Ambassador programme calls for proposals on HIV prevention

St. Kitts, November 13, 2010 (SKNIS): Individuals, community-based organizations, non-governmental organizations, faith-based organizations, and clubs are among entities that have the opportunity to receive funding towards the coordination of an HIV/AIDS prevention project.

The request for funding, which forms part of a proposal submission falls between US$2,500 to US$10,000. This monetary contribution is provided by the United States President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), while the distribution of the funds is being facilitated by the US Embassy to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean through the auspices of the Ambassadors’ HIV Prevention Programme (AHPP).

As outlined by the PEPFAR Caribbean Regional Office the project itself must focus on most at risk populations (MARPS) and persons engaged in high risk behaviours. It should be creative, original and include innovative ideas. It should also consist of community-based activities to reduce the spread of HIV, reduce AIDS-related stigma and discrimination, and encourage communities to cooperate in fighting the epidemic.

The project must also be and should be supported by government and the business community. It should also make use of the mass media, and timelines must not exceed nine months.

Proposals must be submitted to the National AIDS Secretariat, Ministry of Health, Total Concept Building, Bladen Commercial Development, Basseterre, St. Kitts by Friday, November 26, 2010.

Further details concerning the proposal procedures can be obtained by calling the National AIDS Secretariat at 467-1234.