Bridges2Scale: Testing ways to implement an economic program for youths affected by AIDS
Official title: Bridges2Scale: Testing implementation strategies for an intervention among young people affected by AIDS
Funded at New York University · NIH-11535770 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A project tests how well a proven economic-empowerment program can be rolled out to help adolescents and young people affected by HIV in sub-Saharan Africa improve their health, stay on ART, and reduce risky behaviors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | February 3, 2026 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $29,592 |
| NIH project number | 3R01HD112323-04S2 |
| Project ID | NIH-11535770 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adolescents and young adults in SSA affected by HIV, including those living with HIV and AIDS-orphaned youth, with household economic hardship.
✕Less likely to help
Youth without access to the Bridges program or in settings where economic interventions are not feasible may not experience direct benefit.
What this research studies
This grant aims to adapt and test a multi-component Bridges economic empowerment program for young people affected by HIV in low-resource settings. It builds on years of prior trials and uses financial literacy, family income activities, and matched saving accounts to support health, education, and well-being. The study will implement these strategies in real communities, measure outcomes related to ART adherence, mental health, and risk behaviors, and explore how to scale effective elements. Participants are AY affected by HIV, including those living with HIV and orphans due to AIDS, with attention to family economic stress and access to care.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, it could make proven economic and psychosocial supports scalable, helping more youths stay healthy and engaged in HIV care.
How similar studies have gone: Previous Bridges trials in Uganda showed positive effects on adherence, risk behaviors, mental health, and education, supporting this expansion.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ssewamala, Fred M — New York University
- Study coordinator: Ssewamala, Fred M
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.