The US Ambassador's Fund for HIV/AIDS will this year specifically focus on the issues of stigma and discrimination.

Stigma associated with HIV and discrimination are seen as major hindrances here towards the effective treatment and acceptance of those infected with the virus.

In an advertisement in the last Sunday Stabroek the US Embassy said it will award grants for community-based initiatives on HIV/AIDS- related issues that assist in reaching the goals of the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) programme in Guyana with the overall goals for preventing 15,432 new infections, enabling 9,000 persons including orphans and vulnerable children to receive care and support, and, administering treatment to 1,800 persons.

It said further that the Ambassador's Fund is designed to enhance and support existing or new community activities to combat HIV/AIDS, and to encourage communities to cooperate in fighting the epidemic and reducing the associated stigma and discrimination.

According to the advertisement, projects should focus on characterising stigma and discrimination, exploring reasons why people stigmatise and discriminate, highlighting examples of how groups or individuals are discriminated against; examining whether the basic human rights of those stigmatised and discriminated against are being denied, and personalizing or advocating personal responsibility for stigma and discrimination. It was stated that the fund provides limited financial resources to launch or complete small, constructive, community-based projects. Community groups, professional organisations, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), faith-based organisations (FBOs), media, and the private sector not receiving PEPFAR funding are all eligible for funding.

It was suggested that the project be a minimum of US$200 and while larger projects will be considered, the fund is intended primarily for projects under US$5,000 at the United States Government rate of exchange. The project must commence within eight weeks of funding and not exceed nine months and it must be an easily identifiable, discreet undertaking that has immediate impact and benefits to many.

The organisations also have to be sponsored by a legitimate, established NGO or FBO, professional organisation, media house or private sector business. Information on the fund and applications can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control receptionist, DDL Building, 44 High Street, Fourth Floor, Kingston and persons can also call 223-0859/79.

The deadline for proposals is Friday, July 20 at 4:00pm and proposals received after this date will not be reviewed.