[Federal Register: May 11, 2004 (Volume 69, Number 91)]
[Notices]
[Page 26113-26122]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr11my04-103]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Administration for Children and Families
Family Support Services for Grandparents and Other Relatives
Providing Caregiving for Children of Substance Abusing and/or HIV-
Positive Women
Federal Agency Contact Name: Administration for Children and
Families, Children's Bureau
Announcement Type: Competitive Grant-Initial.
Funding Opportunity Number: HHS-2004-ACF-ACYF-CB-0017.
[[Page 26114]]
CFDA Number: 93.551.
Due Date for Applications: July 12, 2004.
I. Funding Opportunity Description
The purpose of this funding opportunity is to provide counseling
and other support services to family caregivers for drug-exposed, HIV-
exposed, HIV-positive or HIV/AIDS affected children. The funds will be
used to establish or enhance a system of support services that should
include, but are not limited to, social services, counseling, legal and
financial services, and assistance with custodial issues.
Projects supported under this funding opportunity are expected to
serve as models for service provision to children and adolescents
affected by HIV/AIDS. A model project funded under this initiative
must:
(a) Develop and implement an evidence-based project with specific
components or strategies that are based on theory, research, or
evaluation data; or, replicate or test the transferability of
successfully evaluated program models;
(b) Determine the effectiveness of the model and its components or
strategies; and
(c) Produce materials that will enable others to replicate the
model.
Applicants should have an understanding of family caregiver support
and service needs and a history of involvement with grandparent groups
or other family member caregiver groups that specifically address the
needs of drug-exposed and/or HIV-positive children in their
applications. Applicants should coordinate and collaborate, as
appropriate, with other related programs, such as SAMSHA and Ryan White
CARE Act.
Background Information
The purposes of Public Law 100-505, the Abandoned Infants Act of
1988 as amended, are to establish a program of local support services
projects designed to prevent the abandonment in hospitals of infants
and young children, particularly those who have been perinatally
exposed to a dangerous drug and those with the human immunodeficiency
virus (HIV) or who have been perinatally exposed to the virus; to
identify and address the needs of those infants and children who are,
or might be, abandoned; to develop a program of comprehensive support
services for these infants and young children and their natural
families (see Definitions) that include, but are not limited to, foster
family care services, case management services, family support
services, parenting skills, in-home support services, counseling
services and group residential home services; and to recruit and train
health and social services personnel, foster care families, and
residential care providers to meet the needs of abandoned children and
infants and children who are at risk of abandonment. The legislation
also allows for the provision of a technical assistance training
program to support the planning, development and operation of the
service demonstration projects. The reauthorized legislation allows the
Secretary to give priority to applicants located in States that have
developed and implemented procedures for expedited termination of
parental rights and placement for adoption of infants determined to be
abandoned under State law.
As an increasing number of HIV-positive and/or substance abusing
parents become unable to provide adequate care for their infants and
young children, family members, frequently grandparents, assume the
responsibility as the primary caretaker for the children. Social
service agencies report that an increasing number of families include a
grandparent raising a grandchild, a circumstance that is due primarily
to parental drug addiction.
Definitions
Abandoned and Abandonment--The terms ``abandoned'' and
``abandonment'', used with respect to infants and young children, mean
that the infants and young children are medically cleared for discharge
from acute-care hospital settings, but remain hospitalized because of a
lack of appropriate out-of-hospital placement alternatives.
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome--The term ``acquired immune
deficiency syndrome'' includes infection with the etiologic agent for
such syndrome, any condition indicating that an individual is infected
with such etiologic agent, and any condition arising from such
etiologic agent.
Dangerous Drug--The term ``dangerous drug'' means a controlled
substance, as defined in section 102 of the Controlled Substances Act
(21 U.S.C. 802).
Natural Family--The term ``natural family'' shall be broadly
interpreted to include natural parents, grandparents, family members,
guardians, children residing in the household, and individuals residing
in the household on a continuing basis who are in a care-giving
situation, with respect to infants and young children covered under
this Act.
II. Award Information
Funding Instrument Type: Grant.
Anticipated total Priority Area Funding: The anticipated total for
all awards under this funding announcement in FY 2004 is $400,000.
Anticipated Number of Awards: It is anticipated that 4 awards will
be made.
Ceiling on amount of individual Awards: The maximum Federal share
of the project is $100,000 in the first budget period. The Children's
Bureau reserves the right to change this amount in subsequent budget
periods. An application received that exceeds this amount will be
considered ``non-responsive and be returned to the applicant without
further review.
Floor of Individual Award Amounts: none.
Average Anticipated Award Amount: $100,000 per budget period.
Project Periods for Awards: The projects will be awarded for a
project period of 48 months. The initial grant award will be for a 12-
month budget period. The award of continuation funding beyond each 12-
month budget period will be subject to the availability of funds,
satisfactory progress on the part of the grantee, and a determination
that continued funding would be in the best interest of the government.
Average Projected Award Amount: $100,000 per budget period.
III. Eligibility Information
1. Eligible Applicants
State governments
County governments
City or township governments
State controlled institutions of higher education
Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized)
Native American tribal organizations (other than Federally recognized
tribal governments)
Non-profits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than
institutions of higher education
Non-profits that do not have 501 (c) (3) status with the IRS, other
than institutions of higher education
Private institutions of higher education
Additional Information on Eligibility
Non-profit organizations, including community and faith-based
organizations are eligible to apply. Non-profit applicants must
demonstrate proof of their status and this proof must be included in
their applications. Proof of non-profit status is any one of the
following:
(a) A reference to the applicant organization's listing in the
Internal Revenue Service's (IRS) most recent list
[[Page 26115]]
of tax-exempt organizations described in the IRS code.
(b) A copy of a currently valid IRS tax exemption certificate.
(c) A statement from a State taxing body, State Attorney General,
or other appropriate State official certifying that the applicant
organization has a non-profit status and that none of the net earnings
accrue to any private shareholders or individuals.
(d) A certified copy of the organization's certificate of
incorporation or similar document that clearly establishes non-profit
status.
(e) Any of the items in the subparagraphs immediately above for a
State or national parent organization and a statement signed by the
parent organization that the applicant organization is a local non-
profit affiliate.
Applications that exceed the $100,000 ceiling will be considered
non-responsive and will not be eligible for funding under this
announcement.
2. Cost Sharing or Matching
The grantee must provide at least 10 per cent of the total approved
cost of the project. The total approved cost is the sum of the Federal
share and the non-Federal share. Therefore, a project requesting
$100,000 per budget period must include a match of at least $11,111 per
budget period. Applicants should provide a letter of commitment
verifying the actual amount of the non-Federal share of project costs.
The following example shows how to calculate the required 10% match
amount for a $100,000 grant:
$100,000 (Federal share) divided by .90 (100%-10%) equals $111,111
(total project cost including match) minus $100,000 (federal share)
equals $11,111 (required 10% match)
The non-federal share may be cash or in-kind contributions,
although applicants are encouraged to meet their match requirements
through cash contributions. If approved for funding, grantees will be
held accountable for the commitment of non-Federal resources and
failure to provide the required amount will result in a disallowance of
unmatched Federal funds.
3. Other (If Applicable)
On June 27, 2003, the Office of Management and Budget published in
the Federal Register a new Federal policy applicable to all Federal
grant applicants. The policy requires all Federal grant applicants to
provide a Dun and Bradstreet Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS)
number when applying for Federal grants or cooperative agreements on or
after October 1, 2003. The DUNS number will be required whether an
applicant is submitting a paper application or using the government-
wide electronic portal (http://www.Grants.gov). A DUNS number will be required
for every application for a new award or renewal/continuation of an
award, including applications or plans under formula, entitlement and
block grant programs, submitted on or after October 1, 2003.
Please ensure that your organization has a DUNS number. You may
acquire a DUNS number at no cost by calling the dedicated toll-free
DUNS number request line on 1-866-705-5711 or you may request a number
on-line at http://www.dnb.com.
IV. Application and Submission Information
1. Address To Request Application Package
ACYF Operations, The Dixon Group, ATTN: Children's Bureau, 118 Q
Street, NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132; Telephone: (866) 796-1591.
2. Content and Form of Application Submission
You may submit your application to us either in electronic or paper
format. To submit an application electronically, please use the
http://www.Grants.gov apply site. If you use Grants.gov you will be able to
download a copy of the application package, complete it off-line, and
then upload and submit the application via the Grants.gov site. You may
not e-mail an electronic copy of a grant application to us.
Please note the following if you plan to submit your application
electronically via Grants.gov:
Electronic submission is voluntary.
When you enter the Grants.gov site, you will find
information about submitting an application electronically through the
site, as well as the hours of operation. We strongly recommend that you
do not wait until the application deadline date to begin the
application process through Grants.gov.
To use Grants.gov, you, as the applicant, must have a DUNS
Number and register in the Central Contractor Registry (CCR). You
should allow a minimum of five days to complete the CCR registration.
You will not receive additional point value because you
submit a grant application in paper format.
You may submit all documents electronically, including all
information typically included on the SF424 and all necessary
assurances and certifications.
Your application must comply with any page limitation
requirements described in this program announcement.
After you electronically submit your application, you will
receive an automatic acknowledgement from Grants.gov that contains a
Grants.gov tracking number. The Administration for Children and
Families will retrieve your application from Grants.gov.
We may request that you provide original signatures on
forms at a later date.
You may access the electronic application for this program
on http://www.Grants.gov.
You must search for the downloadable application package
by the CFDA number.
Electronic Address Where Applications Will Be Accepted: Grants.gov.
Address Where Hard Copy Applications Will Be Accepted: Children's
Bureau Grant Receipt Point, ACYF Operations Center, c/o The Dixon
Group, Inc., 118 Q Street NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132.
Each application must contain the following items in the order
listed:
1. Application for Federal Assistance (Standard Form 424). Follow
the instructions below and those that accompany the form.
In Item 5 of Form 424, put DUNS number in ``Organizational DUNS:''
box.
In Item 5 of Form 424, include name, phone number, and, if
available, email and fax numbers of the contact person.
In Item 8 of Form 424, check `New.'
In Item 10 of Form 424, clearly identify the Catalog of Federal
Domestic Assistance (CFDA) program title and number for the program for
which funds are being requested as stated in this funding opportunity
announcement.
In Item 11 of Form 424, identify the single funding opportunity the
application addresses.
In Item 12 of Form 424, identify the specific geographic area to be
served.
In Item 14 of Form 424, identify Congressional districts of both
the applicant and project.
2. Budget Information Non-Construction Programs (Form 424A) and
Budget Justification.
Follow the instructions provided and those in the Uniform Project
Description. Note that Federal funds provided to States and services or
other resources purchased with Federal funds may not be used to match
project grants.
Applicants have the option of omitting from application copies (not
originals) specific salary rates or amounts for individuals specified
in the application budget. The copies may include summary salary
information.
3. Certifications/Assurances. Applicants requesting financial
[[Page 26116]]
assistance for nonconstruction projects must file the Standard Form
424B, ``Assurances: Non-Construction Programs.'' Applicants must sign
and return the Standard Form 424B with their applications. Applicants
must provide a certification regarding lobbying when applying for an
award in excess of $100,000. Applicants must sign and return the
certification with their applications.
Applicants must disclose lobbying activities on the Standard Form
LLL when applying for an award in excess of $100,000. Applicants who
have used non-Federal funds for lobbying activities in connection with
receiving assistance under this announcement shall complete a
disclosure form to report lobbying. Applicants must sign and return the
disclosure form, if applicable, with their applications.
Applicants must make the appropriate certification regarding
environmental tobacco smoke. By signing and submitting the application,
the applicant is providing the certification and need not mail back the
certification with the applications.
If applicable, applicants must include a completed SPOC
certification (Single Point of Contact) with the date of the SPOC
contact entered in line 16, page 1 of the Form 424.
By signing the ``Signature of Authorized Representative'' on the SF
424, the applicant is providing a certification and need not mail
assurances for completing the following grant and cooperative agreement
requirements:
The applicant will have the project fully functioning within 90
days of the notification of the grant award.
The applicant will submit all required semi-annual and final
Financial Status Reports (SF269) and Program Performance Reports in a
timely manner, in hard-copy and electronic formats (preferably MS WORD
and PDF) as negotiated with the Federal Project Officer.
The applicant will allocate sufficient funds in the budget to
provide for the project director and the evaluator attend an annual
three-day grantees' meeting in Washington, DC and an early kick off
meeting to be held within the first six months of the project (first
year only) in Washington, DC. Attendance at these meetings is a grant
requirement.
The applicant will participate if the Children's Bureau chooses to
do a national evaluation or a technical assistance contract that
relates to this funding opportunity.
The applicant will allocate five percent of the total approved
project cost for an evaluation of the project. For example, a grant
award of $100,000 with a match of $11,111 per budget year must commit
no less than $5,556 annually to the evaluation effort.
The Office for Human Research Protections of the U.S. Department of
Health and Human Services provides website information and policy
guidance on the Federal regulations pertaining to protection of human
subjects (45 CFR part 46), informed consent, informed consent
checklists, confidentiality of personal identification information,
data collection procedures, and internal review boards: http://ohrp.osophs.dhhs.gov/polasur.htm
.
If applicable, applicants must include a completed Form 310,
Protection of Human Subjects.
In implementing their projects, grantees are expected to comply
with all applicable administrative regulations regarding extent or
types of costs. Applicable DHHS regulations can be found in 45 CFR part
74 or 92.
4. Project Abstract/Summary (one page maximum). Clearly mark this
page with the applicant name as shown on item 5 of the Form 424,
identify the competitive grant funding opportunity and the title of the
proposed project as shown in item 11 and the service area as shown in
item 12 of the Form 424. The summary description should not exceed 300
words.
Care should be taken to produce an abstract/summary that accurately
and concisely reflects the proposed project. It should describe the
objectives of the project, the approach to be used and the results or
benefits expected.
5. Project Description for Evaluation. Applicants should organize
their project description according to the Evaluation Criteria
described in this funding opportunity announcement providing
information that addresses all the components. It is strongly
recommended that applicants organize their proposals in the same
sequence and using the same headings as these criteria, so that
reviewers can readily find information that directly addresses each of
the specific review criteria.
6. Proof of non-profit status (if applicable).
7. Indirect cost rate agreement. If claiming indirect costs,
provide documentation that applicant currently has an indirect cost
rate approved by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) or
another cognizant Federal agency.
8. Letters of agreement and memoranda of understanding. If
applicable, include a letter of commitment or Memorandum of
Understanding from each partner organization and/or sub-contractor
describing their role, detailing specific tasks to be performed, and
expressing commitment to participate if the proposed project is funded.
9. Provide letters of support for your program from community-based
agencies.
10. Provide a letter of commitment verifying the actual amount of
the non-Federal share of project costs.
11. The application limit is 75 pages total including all forms and
attachments. Submit one original and two copies.
To be considered for funding, each application must be submitted
with the Standard Federal Forms (provided at the end of this
announcement or through the electronic links provided) and following
the guidance provided. The application must be signed by an individual
authorized to act for the applicant agency and to assume responsibility
for the obligations imposed by the terms and conditions of the grant
award.
To be considered for funding, each applicant must submit one signed
original and two additional copies of the application, including all
forms and attachments, to the Application Receipt Point specified in
the section titled Deadline at the beginning of the announcement. The
original copy of the application must have original signatures, signed
in black ink.
The application must be typed, double spaced, printed on only one
side, with at least \1/2\ inch margins on each side and 1 inch at the
top and bottom, using standard 12 Point fonts (such as Times Roman or
Courier). Pages must be numbered.
Pages over the page limit stated within this funding opportunity
announcement will be removed from the application and will not be
reviewed. All copies of an application must be submitted in a single
package, and a separate package must be submitted for each funding
opportunity. The package must be clearly labeled for the specific
funding opportunity it is addressing.
Because each application will be duplicated, do not use or include
separate covers, binders, clips, tabs, plastic inserts, maps,
brochures, or any other items that cannot be processed easily on a
photocopy machine with an automatic feed. Do not bind, clip, staple, or
fasten in any way separate subsections of the application, including
supporting documentation. Applicants are advised that the copies of the
application submitted, not the original, will be reproduced by the
Federal government for review. Each
[[Page 26117]]
copy must be stapled securely in the upper left corner.
Tips for Preparing a Competitive Application: It is essential that
applicants read the entire announcement package carefully before
preparing an application and include all of the required application
forms and attachments. The application must reflect a thorough
understanding of the purpose and objectives of the Children's Bureau
priority-area initiatives. Reviewers expect applicants to understand
the goals of the legislation and the Children's Bureau's interest in
each topic. A ``responsive application'' is one that addresses all of
the evaluation criteria in ways that demonstrate this understanding.
Applications that are considered to be ``unresponsive'' generally
receive very low scores and are rarely funded.
The Children's Bureau's web site (http://www.acf.dhhs.gov/programs/cb
) provides a wide range of information and links to other relevant
web sites. Before you begin preparing an application, we suggest that
you learn more about the mission and programs of the Children's Bureau
by exploring the website.
Organizing Your Application: The specific evaluation criteria in
Section V of this funding announcement will be used to review and
evaluate each application. The applicant should address each of these
specific evaluation criteria in the project description. It is strongly
recommended that applicants organize their proposals in the same
sequence and using the same headings as these criteria, so that
reviewers can readily find information that directly addresses each of
the specific review criteria.
Project Evaluation Plan: Project evaluations are very important. If
you do not have the in-house capacity to conduct an objective,
comprehensive evaluation of the project, then the Children's Bureau
advises that you propose contracting with a third-party evaluator
specializing in social science or evaluation, or a university or
college, to conduct the evaluation. A skilled evaluator can assist you
in designing a data collection strategy that is appropriate for the
evaluation of your proposed project. Additional assistance may be found
in a document titled ``Program Manager's Guide to Evaluation.'' A copy
of this document can be accessed at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/core/pubs_reports/prog_mgr.html
or ordered by contacting the National
Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information, 330 C Street,
SW., Washington, DC 20447; phone (800) 394-3366; fax (703) 385-3206; e-
mail nccanch@calib.com.
Logic Model: A logic model is a tool that presents the conceptual
framework for a proposed project and explains the linkages among
program elements. While there are many versions of the logic model,
they generally summarize the logical connections among the needs that
are the focus of the project, project goals and objectives, the target
population, project inputs (resources), the proposed activities/
processes/outputs directed toward the target population, the expected
short- and long-term outcomes the initiative is designed to achieve,
and the evaluation plan for measuring the extent to which proposed
processes and outcomes actually occur. Information on the development
of logic models is available on the Internet at http://www.uwex.edu/ces/pdande/ or http://www.extension.iastate.edu/cyfar/capbuilding/
far/capbuilding/
Use of Human Subjects: If your evaluation plan includes gathering
data from or about clients, there are specific procedures that must be
followed in order to protect their privacy and ensure the
confidentiality of the information about them. Applicants planning to
gather such data are asked to describe their plans regarding an
Institutional Review Board (IRB) review. For more information about use
of human subjects and IRB's you can visit these web sites: http://ohrp.osophs.dhhs.gov/irb/irb_chapter2.htm#d2 and http://
ohrp.osophs.dhhs.gov/humansubjects/guidance/ictips.htm.
3. Submission Dates and Times
The closing date for submission of applications is July 12, 2004.
Mailed applications received after the closing date will be classified
as late.
Deadline: Mailed applications shall be considered as meeting an
announced deadline if they are received on or before July 12, 2004 the
deadline date and received by ACF in time for the independent review.
Applications must be mailed to the following address: ACYF Operations,
The Dixon Group, ATTN: Children's Bureau, 118 Q Street, NE.,
Washington, DC 20002-2132.
Applications hand-carried by applicants, applicant couriers, or by
other representatives of the applicant shall be considered as meeting
an announced deadline if they are received on or before the deadline
date, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., EST, at ACYF
Operations, The Dixon Group, ATTN: Children's Bureau, 118 Q Street,
NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132, between Monday and Friday (excluding
Federal holidays). This address must appear on the envelope/package
containing the application with the note ``ATTN: Children's Bureau.''
Applicants are cautioned that express/overnight mail services do not
always deliver as agreed.
Late applications: Applications that do not meet the criteria above
are considered late applications. ACF shall notify each late applicant
that its application will not be considered in the current competition.
Extension of deadlines: ACF may extend application deadlines when
circumstances such as acts of God (floods, hurricanes, etc.) occur, or
when there are widespread disruptions of mails service. Determinations
to extend or waive deadline requirements rest with the Chief Grants
Management Officer.
Required Forms
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What to submit Required content Required form or format When to submit
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. SF424........................... Per required form..... May be found at http:// See application due
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ date.
ofs/forms.htm.
2. SF424A.......................... Per required form..... May be found at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/
.
3.a. SF424B........................ Per required form..... May be found at http:// See application due
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ date.
ofs/forms.htm.
3.b. Certification regarding Per required form..... May be found at http:// See application due
lobbying. http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ date.
ofs/forms.htm.
3.c. Disclosure of Lobbying Per required form..... May be found at http:// See application due
Activities (SF-LLL). http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ date.
ofs/forms.htm.
4. Project Summary/Abstract........ Summary of application See instructions in this See application due
request. funding opportunity date.
announcement.
[[Page 26118]]
5. Project Description............. Responsiveness to See instructions in this See application due
evaluation criteria. funding opportunity date.
announcement.
6. Proof of non-profit status...... Explained in Sections See above.................. See application due
III and IV. date.
7. Indirect cost rate agreement.... Explained in Section See above.................. See application due
IV. date.
8. Letters of agreement & MOUs..... Explained in Section See above.................. See application due
IV. date.
9. Letters of support.............. Explained in Section See above.................. See application due
IV. date.
10. Non-Federal share letter....... Explained in Section See above.................. See application due
IV. date.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Additional Forms
Private-non-profit organizations may submit with their applications
the additional survey located under ``Grant Related Documents and
Forms'' titled ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant Applicants.''
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What to submit Required content Required form or format When to submit
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Survey for Private, Non-Profit Per required form..... May be found on http:// By application due
Grant Applications. http://www.acf.hhs. gov/programs/ date.
ofs/ forms.htm.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. Intergovernmental Review
State Single Point of Contact (SPOC)
This program is covered under Executive Order (E.O.) 12372,
``Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs'', and 45 CFR Part 100,
``Intergovernmental Review of Department of Health and Human Services
Programs and Activities.'' Under the Order, States may design their own
processes for reviewing and commenting on proposed Federal assistance
under covered programs.
As of October 2003, of the most recent SPOC list, the following
jurisdictions have elected not to participate in the Executive Order
process. Applicants from these jurisdictions or for projects
administered by federally-recognized Indian Tribes need take no action
in regard to E.O. 12372: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Colorado,
Connecticut, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts,
Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma,
Oregon, Palau, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont,
Virginia, Washington and Wyoming.
Although the jurisdictions listed above no longer participate in
the process, entities which have met the eligibility requirements of
the program are still eligible to apply for a grant even if a State,
Territory, Commonwealth, etc. does not have a SPOC. All remaining
jurisdictions participate in the Executive Order process and have
established SPOCs. Applicants from participating jurisdictions should
contact their SPOCs as soon as possible to alert them of the
prospective applications and receive instructions. Applicants must
submit any required material to the SPOCs as soon as possible so that
the program office can obtain and review SPOC comments as part of the
award process. The applicant must submit all required materials, if
any, to the SPOC and indicate the date of this submittal (or the date
of contact if no submittal is required) on the Standard Form 424, item
16a. Under 45 CFR 100.8(a)(2), a SPOC has 60 days from the application
deadline to comment on proposed new or competing continuation awards.
SPOCs are encouraged to eliminate the submission of routine
endorsements as official recommendations. Additionally, SPOCs are
requested to differentiate clearly between mere advisory comments and
those official State process recommendations which may trigger the
``accommodate or explain'' rule.
When comments are submitted directly to ACF, they should be
addressed to: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration
for Children and Families, Division of Discretionary Grants, 370
L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Washington, DC 20447.
The official list, including addresses, of the jurisdictions
elected to participate in E.O. 12372 can be found on the following URL:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html.
5. Funding Restrictions
Grant awards will not allow reimbursement of pre-award costs.
Construction is not an allowable activity or expenditure under this
solicitation.
Available Funds: Applicants should note that grants to be awarded
under this program announcement are subject to the availability of
funds. The size of the actual awards will vary. In cases where more
applications are approved for funding than ACF can fund with the money
available, the Grants Officer shall fund applications in their order of
approval until funds run out. In this case, ACF has the option of
carrying over the approved applications up to a year for funding
consideration in a later competition of the same program. These
applications need not be reviewed and scored again if the program's
evaluation criteria have not changed. However, they must then be placed
in rank order along with other applications in later competitions.
6. Other Submission Requirements
Submission by Mail: An applicant must provide an original
application with all attachments, signed by an authorized
representative and two copies. The application must be received at the
address below by 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on or before the closing
date. Applications should be mailed to: ACYF Operations, The Dixon
Group, ATTN: Children's Bureau, 118 Q Street, NE., Washington, DC
20002-2132.
For Hand Delivery: Applicant must provide an original application
with all attachments, signed by an authorized representative and two
copies. The application must be received at the address below by 4:30
p.m. Eastern Standard Time on or before the closing date. Applications
that are hand delivered will be accepted between the hours of 8 a.m.
and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Applications may be delivered to:
ACYF Operations, The Dixon Group, ATTN: Children's Bureau 118 Q Street,
NE., Washington, DC
[[Page 26119]]
20002-2132. It is strongly recommended that applicants obtain
documentation that the application was hand delivered on or before the
closing date. Applicants are cautioned that express/overnight mail
services do not always deliver as agreed.
Electronic Submission: Please see Section IV. 2. Content and Form
of Application Submission, for guidelines and requirements when
submitting applications electronically.
V. Application Review Information
The Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (Pub. L. 104-13)
Public reporting burden for this collection of information is
estimated to average 40 hours per response, including the time for
reviewing instructions, gathering and maintaining the data needed and
reviewing the collection information. The project description is
approved under OMB control number 0970-0139 which expires 3/31/2004. An
agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to
respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a currently
valid OMB control number.
Instruction
Introduction
Applicants should prepare the project description statement in
accordance with the following instructions and the specified evaluation
criteria. The instructions give a broad overview of what your project
description should include while the evaluation criteria expands and
clarifies more program-specific information that is needed.
1. Criteria
General Instruction for Preparing Full Project Description
Objectives and Need for Assistance
Clearly identify the physical, economic, social, financial,
institutional, and/or other problem(s) requiring a solution. The need
for assistance must be demonstrated and the principal and subordinate
objectives of the project must be clearly stated; supporting
documentation, such as letters of support and testimonials from
concerned interests other than the applicant, may be included. Any
relevant data based on planning studies should be included or referred
to in the endnotes/footnotes. Incorporate demographic data and
participant/beneficiary information, as needed. In developing the
project description, the applicant may volunteer or be requested to
provide information on the total range of projects currently being
conducted and supported (or to be initiated), some of which may be
outside the scope of the program announcement.
Approach
Outline a plan of action that describes the scope and detail of how
the proposed work will be accomplished. Account for all functions or
activities identified in the application. Cite factors that might
accelerate or decelerate the work and state your reason for taking the
proposed approach rather than others. Describe any unusual features of
the project such as design or technological innovations, reductions in
cost or time, or extraordinary social and community involvement.
Provide quantitative monthly or quarterly projections of the
accomplishments to be achieved for each function or activity in such
terms as the number of people to be served and the number of activities
accomplished. When accomplishments cannot be quantified by activity or
function, list them in chronological order to show the schedule of
accomplishments and their target dates.
If any data is to be collected, maintained, and/or disseminated,
clearance may be required from the U.S. Office of Management and Budget
(OMB). This clearance pertains to any ``collection of information that
is conducted or sponsored by ACF.''
List organizations, cooperating entities, consultants, or other key
individuals who will work on the project along with a short description
of the nature of their effort or contribution.
Organizational Profiles
Provide information on the applicant organization(s) and
cooperating partners such as organizational charts, financial
statements, audit reports or statements from CPAs/Licensed Public
Accountants, Employer Identification Numbers, names of bond carriers,
contact persons and telephone numbers, child care licenses and other
documentation of professional accreditation, information on compliance
with Federal/State/local government standards, documentation of
experience in the program area, and other pertinent information. Any
non-profit organization submitting an application must submit proof of
its non-profit status in its application at the time of submission.
The non-profit agency can accomplish this by providing a copy of
the applicant's listing in the Internal Revenue Service's (IRS) most
recent list of tax-exempt organizations described in Section 501(c)(3)
of the IRS code, or by providing a copy of the currently valid IRS tax
exemption certificate, or by providing a copy of the articles of
incorporation bearing the seal of the State in which the corporation or
association is domiciled.
Budget and Budget Justification
Provide line item detail and detailed calculations for each budget
object class identified on the Budget Information form. Detailed
calculations must include estimation methods, quantities, unit costs,
and other similar quantitative detail sufficient for the calculation to
be duplicated. The detailed budget must also include a breakout by the
funding sources identified in Block 15 of the SF-424. Provide a
narrative budget justification that describes how the categorical costs
are derived. Discuss the necessity, reasonableness, and allocability of
the proposed costs.
Personnel
Description: Costs of employee salaries and wages.
Justification: Identify the project director or principal
investigator, if known. For each staff person, provide the title, time
commitment to the project (in months), time commitment to the project
(as a percentage or full-time equivalent), annual salary, grant salary,
wage rates, etc. Do not include the costs of consultants or personnel
costs of delegate agencies or of specific project(s) or businesses to
be financed by the applicant.
Fringe Benefits
Description: Costs of employee fringe benefits unless treated as
part of an approved indirect cost rate.
Justification: Provide a breakdown of the amounts and percentages
that comprise fringe benefit costs such as health insurance, FICA,
retirement insurance, taxes, etc.
Travel
Description: Costs of project-related travel by employees of the
applicant organization (does not include costs of consultant travel).
Justification: For each trip, show the total number of traveler(s),
travel destination, duration of trip, per diem, mileage allowances, if
privately owned vehicles will be used, and other transportation costs
and subsistence allowances. Travel costs for key staff to attend ACF-
sponsored workshops should be detailed in the budget.
Equipment
Description: ``Equipment'' means an article of nonexpendable,
tangible personal property having a useful life of
[[Page 26120]]
more than one year and an acquisition cost which equals or exceeds the
lesser of (a) the capitalization level established by the organization
for the financial statement purposes, or (b) $5,000. (Note: Acquisition
cost means the net invoice unit price of an item of equipment,
including the cost of any modifications, attachments, accessories, or
auxiliary apparatus necessary to make it usable for the purpose for
which it is acquired. Ancillary charges, such as taxes, duty,
protective in-transit insurance, freight, and installation shall be
included in or excluded from acquisition cost in accordance with the
organization's regular written accounting practices.)
Justification: For each type of equipment requested, provide a
description of the equipment, the cost per unit, the number of units,
the total cost, and a plan for use on the project, as well as use or
disposal of the equipment after the project ends. An applicant
organization that uses its own definition for equipment should provide
a copy of its policy or section of its policy which includes the
equipment definition.
Supplies
Description: Costs of all tangible personal property other than
that included under the Equipment category.
Justification: Specify general categories of supplies and their
costs. Show computations and provide other information which supports
the amount requested.
Contractual
Description: Costs of all contracts for services and goods except
for those which belong under other categories such as equipment,
supplies, construction, etc. Third party evaluation contracts (if
applicable) and contracts with secondary recipient organizations,
including delegate agencies and specific project(s) or businesses to be
financed by the applicant, should be included under this category.
Justification: All procurement transactions shall be conducted in a
manner to provide, to the maximum extent practical, open and free
competition. Recipients and subrecipients, other than States that are
required to use Part 92 procedures, must justify any anticipated
procurement action that is expected to be awarded without competition
and exceed the simplified acquisition threshold fixed at 41 U.S.C.
403(11). Recipients might be required to make available to ACF pre-
award review and procurement documents, such as request for proposals
or invitations for bids, independent cost estimates, etc.
Note: Whenever the applicant intends to delegate part of the
project to another agency, the applicant must provide a detailed
budget and budget narrative for each delegate agency, by agency
title, along with the required supporting information referred to in
these instructions.
Other
Enter the total of all other costs. Such costs, where applicable
and appropriate, may include but are not limited to insurance, food,
medical and dental costs (noncontractual), professional services costs,
space and equipment rentals, printing and publication, computer use,
training costs, such as tuition and stipends, staff development costs,
and administrative costs.
Justification: Provide computations, a narrative description and a
justification for each cost under this category.
Indirect Charges
Description: Total amount of indirect costs. This category should
be used only when the applicant currently has an indirect cost rate
approved by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) or
another cognizant Federal agency.
Justification: An applicant that will charge indirect costs to the
grant must enclose a copy of the current rate agreement. If the
applicant organization is in the process of initially developing or
renegotiating a rate, it should immediately upon notification that an
award will be made, develop a tentative indirect cost rate proposal
based on its most recently completed fiscal year in accordance with the
principles set forth in the cognizant agency's guidelines for
establishing indirect cost rates, and submit it to the cognizant
agency. Applicants awaiting approval of their indirect cost proposals
may also request indirect costs. It should be noted that when an
indirect cost rate is requested, those costs included in the indirect
cost pool should not also be charged as direct costs to the grant.
Also, if the applicant is requesting a rate which is less than what is
allowed under the program, the authorized representative of the
applicant organization must submit a signed acknowledgement that the
applicant is accepting a lower rate than allowed.
Specific Evaluation Criteria
The following criteria will be used to review and evaluate each
application. The applicant should address each criterion in the project
description. The point values (summing up to 100) indicate the maximum
numerical weight each criterion will be accorded in the review process.
Criterion 1. Objectives and Need for Assistance
In reviewing the objectives and need for assistance, the following
factors will be considered: (20 points)
(1) The extent to which the applicant clearly describes appropriate
goals (end results of an effective project) and objectives (measurable
steps for reaching these goals) for the proposed project. The extent to
which these goals and objectives will effectively address community
needs.
(2) The extent to which the applicant clearly demonstrates that
there is a need for the program (e.g. sharing the results of a thorough
assessment of community needs and including letters of support for the
proposed program from community-based agencies).
(3) The extent to which the applicant demonstrates a thorough
understanding of the multiple needs of the relative caregivers,
particularly the support services needed to address the unique needs of
families dealing with intergenerational differences and issues,
including caring for siblings.
(4) The extent to which the estimated number of infants, young
children and families to be served by the project is reasonable and
appropriate.
(5) The extent to which the geographic location to be served by the
project is clearly defined and justified based on factors such as the
key socioeconomic and demographic characteristics of the targeted
community as they relate to women of childbearing age, the needs of
women and families who are affected by substance abuse and HIV/AIDS,
and the current availability of needed services that serve substance-
abusing and/or AIDS/HIV-infected women and their families in the
community.
(6) The extent to which the applicant describes significant results
or benefits that can be expected for the children of substance-abusing
women and/or women with HIV/AIDS and the grandparents or other
relatives providing care, and community-wide results, if any.
(7) The extent to which this project would improve evidence-based
practices to prevent child maltreatment. The extent to which the
applicant presents a concise summary of the literature that reflects an
understanding of the research on best practices and promising
approaches in the field. The extent to which the program results will
benefit national policy and practice, and lead to additional research
in this field.
[[Page 26121]]
Criterion 2. Approach
In reviewing the approach, the following factors will be
considered: (50 points)
(1) The extent to which the timeline for implementing the proposed
project, including major milestones and target dates, is comprehensive
and reasonable. The extent to which the applicant's plan for managing
factors which could speed or hinder project implementation is feasible.
(2) The extent to which the specific services which would be
provided under the proposed project are appropriate and are described
in detail.
(3) The extent to which the applicant demonstrates a thorough
understanding of the parenting issues involved in caring for children
of substance-abusing and/or HIV-positive parent(s) and a thorough
understanding of the special needs of children who may be HIV-positive.
(4) The extent to which the applicant demonstrates a thorough
understanding of the program, service and legal issues involved in
serving families affected by substance abuse and HIV/AIDS.
(5) The extent to which the project will be culturally responsive
to the target population.
(6) The extent to which the applicant demonstrates a commitment to
work effectively with appropriate social services, public health,
mental health agencies or legal services in providing excellent
consultation, support services and advice to meet the needs of family
caregivers.
(7) The extent to which the proposed project would work effectively
with families in establishing, to the extent possible, standby
guardianship arrangements (or medical or educational authority to make
decisions for the child) for the children in the care of the family
member.
(8) The extent to which the applicant describes appropriate
procedures for conducting an effective minimal evaluation effort. The
extent to which data on the individuals and families served; types of
services provided; service utilization information; types and nature of
needs identified and met and any other such information that may be
required by ACYF. The extent to which the methods/procedures used will
effectively determine the extent to which the program has achieved the
stated objectives. The extent to which the proposed evaluation plan
would be likely to yield useful findings or results about effective
strategies, and contribute to and promote evaluation research and
evidence-based practices that could be used to guide replication or
testing in other settings. The extent to which the applicant provides a
sound plan for collecting this data and securing informed consent. The
extent to which the plan includes appropriate procedures for an
Institutional Review Board (IRB) review, if applicable.
(9) The extent to which the products (if any) that would be
developed during the proposed project would provide useful information
on strategies utilized and the outcomes achieved that would effectively
support evidence-based improvements of practices in the field. The
extent to which the schedule for developing these products is
reasonable, and the proposed dissemination plan is appropriate in scope
and budget. The extent to which the intended audience (e.g.,
researchers, policymakers, and practitioners) for product dissemination
is appropriate to the goals of the proposed project. The extent to
which the project's products would be useful to each of these
audiences. The extent to which there is a sound plan for effectively
disseminating information, using appropriate mechanisms and forums to
convey the information and support replication by other interested
agencies.
(10) The extent to which there is a sound plan for continuing this
project beyond the period of Federal funding.
Criterion 3. Organizational Profiles
In reviewing the organizational profiles, the following factors
will be considered: (20 points)
(1) The extent to which the applicant organization and its staff
have sufficient experience in successfully providing services to
substance-abusing women and women who have HIV/AIDS and their infants
and/or young children; in providing social support services to families
faced with dealing with HIV/AIDS; and in collaborating effectively with
community-based agencies. The extent to which the applicant's history
and relationship with grandparent groups or other family caregiver
groups that specifically address the needs of drug exposed and/or HIV-
positive children will assist in the effective implementation of the
proposed project. The extent to which the applicant organization's
capabilities and experience relative to this project, including
experience with administration, development, implementation,
management, and evaluation of similar projects, will enable them to
implement the proposed project effectively.
(2) If the applicant represents a consortium of partner agencies,
the extent to which their background and experience with children and
families impacted by substance abuse and HIV/AIDS will support the
planning and implementation of the proposed project. The extent to
which there are letters of commitment from each partner authorizing the
applicant to apply on behalf of the consortium and agreeing to
participate if the proposal is funded.
(3) The extent to which the applicant's project director and key
project staff possess sufficient relevant knowledge, experience and
capabilities to implement and manage a project of this size, scope and
complexity effectively. The extent to which the role, responsibilities
and time commitments of each proposed project staff position, including
consultants, subcontractors and/or partners, are clearly defined and
appropriate to the successful implementation of the proposed project.
The extent to which the author of this proposal will be closely
involved throughout the implementation of the proposed project.
(4) The extent to which there is a sound management plan for
achieving the objectives of the proposed project on time and within
budget, including clearly defined responsibilities, timelines and
milestones for accomplishing project tasks and ensuring quality. The
extent to which the plan clearly defines the role and responsibilities
of the lead agency. The extent to which the plan clearly describes the
effective management and coordination of activities carried out by any
partners, subcontractors and consultants (if appropriate). The extent
to which there would be a mutually beneficial relationship between the
proposed project and other work planned, anticipated or underway with
Federal assistance by the applicant.
Criterion 4. Budget and Budget Justification
In reviewing the budget and budget justification, the following
factors will be considered: (10 points)
(1) The extent to which the costs of the proposed project are
reasonable and programmatically justified, in view of the targeted
population and community, the activities to be conducted and the
expected results and benefits. The extent to which the dollar amount
requested is fully justified and documented in terms of the targeted
population and community.
(2) The extent to which the applicant's fiscal controls and
accounting procedures would ensure prudent use, proper and timely
disbursement and accurate accounting of funds received under this
program announcement.
[[Page 26122]]
2. Review and Selection Process
Applications will be screened to confirm that they are received by
the deadline. Federal staff will verify whether the applicant is
eligible and confirm that the application contains all the essential
elements. Applications received from ineligible organizations and
applications received after the deadline will be withdrawn from further
consideration.
A panel of at least three reviewers (primarily experts from outside
the Federal government) will use the evaluation criteria described in
this announcement to evaluate each application. The reviewers will
determine the strengths and weaknesses of each application, provide
comments about the strengths and weaknesses and give each application a
numerical score.
All applications will be reviewed and evaluated using four major
criteria: (1) Objectives and need for assistance, (2) approach, (3)
organizational profiles, and (4) budget and budget justification. Each
criterion has been assigned a point value. The point values (summing up
to 100) indicate the maximum numerical weight each criterion may be
given in the review and evaluation process.
Reviewers also are evaluating the project products and materials
proposed in applications. They will be interested in applicants' plans
for sustaining the project without Federal funds if the evaluation
findings are supportive. Reviewers will be looking to see that the
total budget proposed and the way the budget is apportioned is
appropriate and reasonable for the project described. Applicants are
cautioned to remember that the reviewers only have the information
provided them `` and thus all information in the application must be
clear, complete, and concise.
The results of the competitive review are a primary factor in
making funding decisions. In addition, Federal staff conducts
administrative reviews of the applications and, in light of the results
of the competitive review, will recommend applications for funding to
the ACYF Commissioner. ACYF reserves the option of discussing
applications with other funding sources when this is in the best
interest of the Federal government. ACYF may also solicit and consider
comments from ACF Regional Office staff in making funding decisions.
ACYF may take into consideration the involvement (financial and/or
programmatic) of the private sector, national, or State or community
foundations; a favorable balance between Federal and non-Federal funds
for the proposed project; or the potential for high benefit from low
Federal investment. ACYF may elect not to fund any applicants having
known management, fiscal, reporting, programmatic, or other problems
which make it unlikely that they would be able to provide effective
services or effectively complete the proposed activity.
With the results of the peer review and the information from
Federal staff, the Commissioner of ACYF makes the final funding
decisions. The Commissioner may give special consideration to
applications proposing services of special interest to the Government
and to achieve geographic distributions of grant awards. Applications
of special interest may include, but are not limited to, applications
focusing on unserved or inadequately served clients or service areas
and programs addressing diverse ethnic populations.
VI. Award Administration Information
1. Award Notices
Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates: Applications will be
reviewed during summer 2004. Grant awards will have a start date no
later than September 30, 2004.
Award Notices: Successful applicants will receive a Financial
Assistance Award which will set forth the amount of funds granted, the
terms and conditions of the grant or cooperative agreement, the
effective date of the grant, the budget period for which initial
support will be given, the non-Federal share to be provided, if
applicable, and the total project period for which support is
contemplated. The Grants Management Office issues the award notice.
The Commissioner will notify organizations in writing when their
applications will not be funded. Every effort will be made to notify
all unsuccessful applicants as soon as possible after final decisions
are made.
2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements
45 CFR Part 74 and 45 CFR Part 92.
3. Reporting
Reporting Requirements: Programmatic Reports and Financial Reports
are required semi-annually. All required reports will be submitted in a
timely manner, in recommended formats (to be provided), and the final
report will also be submitted on disk or electronically using a
standard word-processing program.
Within 90 days of project end date, the applicant will submit a
copy of the final report, the evaluation report, and any program
products to the National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect, 330
C Street, SW., Washington, DC 20447. This is in addition to the
standard requirement that the final program and evaluation report must
also be submitted to the Grants Management Specialist and the Federal
Project Officer.
VII. Agency Contacts
Program Office Contact: Pat Campiglia, 330 C St., SW., Washington,
DC 20447, 202-205-8060, pcampiglia@acc.hhs.gov.
Grants Management Office Contact: William Nelson, 330 C St., SW.,
20447, Washington, DC, 202-401-4524, wnelson@acf.hhs.gov.
General: The Dixon Group, ACYF Operations Center, 118 Q Street,
NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132, Telephone: (866) 796-1591.
VIII. Other Information
Additional information about this program and its purpose can be
located on the following Web site: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cb/.
Dated: April 29, 2004.
Joan E. Ohl,
Commissioner, Administration on Children, Youth and Families.
[FR Doc. 04-10557 Filed 5-10-04; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4184-01-P