The PEP Packs: Postexposure Prophylaxis Packs for Immediate Access to HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infection Prevention (RFA-PS-25-112) is a funding opportunity from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The primary focus is to improve access to nonoccupational postexposure prophylaxis (nPEP) for HIV prevention through a postexposure prophylaxis-in-pocket (PiP) approach. This strategy addresses populations disproportionately affected by HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including men who have sex with men, transgender individuals, and others at high risk.

The purpose of this funding opportunity is to reduce delays in accessing nPEP by providing eligible individuals with PEP packs for use in emergency situations following potential exposure to HIV. These packs contain a 3-5 day initial course of nPEP medication to be started immediately, with follow-up at healthcare settings for comprehensive care. The initiative aims to expand the reach of nPEP among high-risk populations and evaluate the PiP strategy's feasibility, acceptability, and impact on HIV and STI prevention. It also seeks to address health inequities by improving access to timely HIV prevention interventions.

The funding supports activities such as implementing PiP programs, developing protocols for distributing PEP packs, providing education about nPEP, and establishing referral systems for follow-up care. Funds may also be used for research and evaluation to measure program outcomes, including the impact on access to care and nPEP uptake among populations at risk. Awardees are expected to collaborate with community-based organizations, local health departments, and clinical providers to ensure effective implementation and sustainability.

Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations, academic institutions, health departments, and other entities with experience serving populations disproportionately impacted by HIV and STIs. Priority will be given to applicants with established partnerships, a history of providing HIV prevention services, and the capacity to implement the proposed program. Applicants must demonstrate the ability to identify, engage, and retain individuals in the PiP program while ensuring adherence to follow-up care and monitoring.

Submissions require a detailed work plan, including strategies for implementing the PiP approach, evaluation methods, a timeline of activities, and budget justifications. Applicants must address how they will overcome barriers to nPEP access, promote health equity, and ensure culturally competent services. The CDC emphasizes evidence-based strategies, community engagement, and ongoing program evaluation as key components of successful applications.

Applications will be evaluated based on factors such as the strength of the implementation plan, the applicant’s experience in HIV prevention, the quality of partnerships, and the proposed approach to program monitoring and evaluation. Proposals will also be assessed for innovation, feasibility, and alignment with the CDC's goals for reducing HIV incidence and addressing health disparities.

Key dates for this funding opportunity include the application due date and anticipated award announcements, with project periods typically spanning multiple years. The initiative underscores the importance of rapid intervention following HIV exposure and supports efforts to scale up prevention services for high-risk populations across the United States.