[Federal Register Volume 70, Number 107 (Monday, June 6, 2005)]
[Notices]
[Pages 32794-32805]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 05-11192]
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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Administration for Children and Families
Office of Community Services; Community Food and Nutrition
Program
Funding Opportunity Title: Community Food and Nutrition Program.
Announcement Type: Initial.
Funding Opportunity Number: HHS-2005-ACF-OCS-EN-0018.
CFDA Number: 93.571.
Due Date for Applications: Application is due July 21, 2005.
Executive Summary:
Authority: The Community Services Block Grant Act (the Act), as
amended, authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make
funds available under several programs to support program activities
that will result in direct benefits targeted to low-income people. This
program announcement covers the grant authority found at
[[Page 32795]]
Section 681 of the Act, (Pub. L. 97-35), as amended by the Community
Opportunities, Accountability, and Training and Educational Services
Act of 1998 (Pub. L. 105-285). The Act authorizes the Secretary to
award grants on a competitive basis to eligible agencies for community-
based, local, statewide, and national programs (1) to coordinate
private and public food assistance resources, wherever the grant
recipient involved determines such coordination to be inadequate, to
better serve low-income populations; (2) to assist low-income
communities to identify potential sponsors of child nutrition programs
and to initiate such programs in underserved or unserved areas; and (3)
to develop innovative approaches at the State and local level to meet
the nutrition needs of low-income individuals.
Purpose: The Administration for Children and Families, Office of
Community Services (OCS), invites eligible agencies to submit
competitive grant applications for the award of one cooperative
agreement to support the Community Food and Nutrition Program's (CFNP)
Nationwide Initiative: Youth Obesity, An American Crisis.
The problem of overweight children and adolescents is an American
crisis. The Surgeon General reports that:
In 2001-2002, 16 percent of children aged 6 to 19 years in
the United States were overweight, and 31 percent were at risk for
being overweight. This prevalence has nearly tripled for adolescents in
the past 2 decades.
Risk factors for heart disease, such as high cholesterol
and high blood pressure, occur with increased frequency in overweight
children and adolescents compared to children with a healthy weight.
Type 2 diabetes, previously considered an adult disease,
has increased dramatically in children and adolescents. Overweightness
and obesity are closely linked to Type 2 diabetes.
Overweight adolescents have a 70 percent chance of
becoming overweight or obese adults.
The most immediate consequence of being overweight, as
perceived by the children themselves, is social discrimination. This is
associated with poor self-esteem and depression.
Recently, Federal and State governments, industry, schools, and
numerous organizations nationwide have taken comprehensive and
ambitious actions to reverse the rapid rise in obesity among children
and youth. In 2005, the Department of Health and Human Services, in
collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, released
``Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2005'' (DGAs). The DGAs establish
Federal nutrition standards for food and nutrition programs, including
nutrition assistance programs.
ACF/OCS is seeking assistance, through a cooperative agreement, to
identify, complement, coordinate, and promote the numerous youth-
obesity programs nationwide. The goal will be to identify and compile
data on youth obesity, specifically focusing on the prevalence of youth
obesity throughout rural, urban, and suburban locations nationwide.
Socioeconomic factors, demographics, income level and percentage of
youth obesity in low-income households will be assessed. This
information will be utilized to recommend intervention as warranted.
The cooperative agreement will require active partnership between ACF/
OCS and the successful applicant.
I. Funding Opportunity Description
1. Purpose, Scope, Focus
The Administration for Children and Families, Office of Community
Services (OCS), invites eligible agencies to submit competitive grant
applications for the award of one cooperative agreement to support the
Community Food and Nutrition Program's (CFNP) Nationwide Initiative:
Youth Obesity, An American Crisis.
The problem of overweight children and adolescents is an American
crisis. The Surgeon General reports that:
In 2001-2002, 16 percent of children aged 6 to 19 years in
the United States were overweight, and 31 percent were at risk for
being overweight. This prevalence has nearly tripled for adolescents in
the past 2 decades.
Risk factors for heart disease, such as high cholesterol
and high blood pressure, occur with increased frequency in overweight
children and adolescents compared to children with a healthy weight.
Type 2 diabetes, previously considered an adult disease,
has increased dramatically in children and adolescents. Overweightness
and obesity are closely linked to Type 2 diabetes.
Overweight adolescents have a 70 percent chance of
becoming overweight or obese adults. As overweight or obese adults,
they are at risk for a number of health problems including heart
disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and some forms of
cancer.
The most immediate consequence of being overweight, as
perceived by the children themselves, is social discrimination. This is
associated with poor self-esteem and depression.
Recently, Federal and State governments, industry, schools, and
numerous organizations nationwide have taken comprehensive and
ambitious actions to reverse the rapid rise in obesity among children
and youth. In 2005, the Department of Health and Human Services, in
collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, released
``Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2005'' (DGAs). The DGAs establish
Federal nutrition standards for food and nutrition programs, including
nutrition assistance programs. The Federal Government makes available
health and obesity prevention grants and a major health insurance
company now offers obesity prevention benefits.
ACF/OCS is seeking assistance, through a cooperative agreement, to
identify, complement, coordinate, and promote the numerous youth
obesity programs nationwide. The goal will be to identify and compile
data on youth obesity, specifically focusing on the prevalence of youth
obesity throughout rural, urban, and suburban locations nationwide.
Socioeconomic factors, demographics, income level, and percentage of
youth obesity in low-income households will be assessed. This
information will be utilized to recommend intervention as warranted.
The cooperative agreement will require active partnership between ACF/
OCS and the successful applicant.
2. Authority
The Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Act (the Act) (Pub.L. 97-
35), as amended, authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services
to make funds available under several programs to support program
activities that will result in direct benefits targeted to low-income
people. This program announcement covers the grant authority found at
Section 681 of the Act, as amended by the Community Opportunities,
Accountability, and Training and Educational Services Act of 1998 (Pub.
L. 105-285). The Act authorizes the Secretary to award grants on a
competitive basis to eligible agencies for non-profit, faith-based,
community-based, local, statewide, and national programs (1) to
coordinate private and public food assistance resources, wherever the
grant recipient involved determines such coordination to be inadequate,
to better serve low-income populations; (2) to assist low-income
communities to identify potential sponsors of child nutrition programs
and to initiate such programs
[[Page 32796]]
in underserved or unserved areas; and (3) to develop innovative
approaches at the State and local level to meet the nutrition needs of
low-income individuals.
3. The Cooperative Agreement
This announcement uses a cooperative agreement as the vehicle for
funding the nationwide initiative. A cooperative agreement is an
assistance instrument for which substantial involvement is anticipated
between the awarding office and the recipient during performance of the
funded activity. Substantial involvement may include collaboration or
participation by the designated awarding office staff in activities
specified in the award and, as appropriate, decision-making at
specified milestones related to performance. Potential types of
substantial involvement under a cooperative agreement include, but are
not limited to, collaborating in the design of a research protocol or a
training or service delivery model; approving research protocols or
analytical approaches or approving the initiation of a subsequent phase
in a phased activity; training project staff in participating
organizations; assisting in the evaluation of potential contractors;
participating in the presentation of research results, including co-
authorship of papers; or providing other assistance in program
management or technical performance.
ACF/OCS and the recipient will each be responsible for particular
duties and responsibilities throughout the project.
Responsibilities of ACF/OCS:
Throughout the term of the cooperative agreement, provide
the time and expertise of ACF/OCS to help the applicant implement the
goals and objectives of the project. Specifically, ACF/OCS will
organize periodic consultations and teleconferences to review planned
activities, to share information, and to promote nationwide
coordination;
Provide to the applicant a complete list of current
Community Food and Nutrition Program (CFNP) grantees;
Organize a 2-3 day meeting in Washington, DC to discuss
and finalize the major goals and objectives of the overall project and
the fiscal year work plan, to exchange program information, and to
share information on strategies for achieving the goals and objectives
of the project;
Review and comment on quarterly progress reports and other
relevant materials prior to their finalization;
Make available to the applicant program information and/or
products from ACF/OCS activities that are available and relevant to the
project;
Promote the involvement of the applicant in meetings,
conferences, and other initiatives to strengthen its knowledge and
resource base for providing effective assistance to ACF/OCS and CFNP
grantees;
Provide consultation to the grantee with regard to the
development of the work plan approaches to address problems that arise,
and identification of areas needing technical assistance;
Consult with and provide the grantee the data collection
requirements of ACF/OCS, and keep the grantee informed of policy
developments as they affect the implementation of the project;
Provide timely review, comment and decisions on
significant project documents;
Work together to address issues or problems with regard to
the grantee's ability to carry out the full range of activities
included in the approved application in the most efficient and
effective manner; and
Promptly review written requests for approval of
deviations from the project description or approved budget. Any changes
that affect the terms and conditions of the grant award or revisions/
amendments to the cooperative agreement or to the approved scope of
activities will require prior written approval by the ACF Grants
Management Officer.
Responsibilities of the Grantee:
In collaboration with ACF/OCS, design, coordinate, and
implement the project;
Attend a 2-3 day meeting in Washington, DC to discuss and
finalize the major goals and objectives of the overall project and the
fiscal year work plan, exchange and share information on strategies for
achieving the goals and objectives of the project;
Establish subordinate objectives to guide the focus of
their research based upon the needs assessed in the major objectives;
Develop a CFNP database for use and maintenance by ACF/
OCS;
Implement activities described in the approved project
description;
Develop and implement work plans that will ensure that the
services and activities included in the approved application address
the goals and objectives of the approved project in an efficient,
effective and timely manner;
Submit regular semi-annual Financial Status (Standard Form
269) and progress reports that describe activities including, at a
minimum, (a) information about the actions taken to implement the
proposed project, and (b) the proposed plan for outcomes measurement
and program evaluation of the activities supported with Federal funds;
Work cooperatively and collaborately with ACF officials,
other Federal agency officials conducting related activities, and other
entities or organizations contracted by ACF to assist in carrying out
the purposes of the Community Food and Nutrition Program; such
cooperation and collaboration shall include, but not be limited to,
providing requested financial and programmatic information, creating
opportunities for interviews with agency officials and staff, and
allowing on-site observation of activities supported under the
cooperative agreement;
Notify the Community Food and Nutrition Project Officer if
revisions are needed to the cooperative agreement; and
Consult with the Office of Community Services Project
Officer in implementing the activities on an ongoing and frequent basis
during each phase of the project.
4. Definition of Terms
The following definitions apply:
Budget Period
The interval of time into which a grant period of assistance
(project period) is divided for budgetary and funding purposes.
Cooperative Agreement
An award instrument of financial assistance when substantial
involvement is anticipated between the awarding agency of the Federal
Government and the recipient during performance of the contemplated
project. Substantial involvement may include collaboration or
participation by the designated awarding office staff in activities
specified in the award and, as appropriate, decision-making at
specified milestones related to performance. The involvement may range
from joint conduct of a project to awarding office approval prior to
the recipient's undertaking the next phase of a project.
Eligible Entity
Public and private non-profit agencies, including organizations
benefiting Indians and migrant and seasonal farm workers. Faith-based
organizations and community-based organizations are eligible to apply
for this Community Food and Nutrition Program grant.
[[Page 32797]]
Indian Tribe
A tribe, band, or other organized group of Native American Indians
recognized in the State or States in which it resides, or considered by
the Secretary of the Interior to be an Indian tribe or an Indian
organization.
Innovative Project
One that departs from, or significantly modifies, past program
practices and tests a new approach.
Migrant Farm Worker
An individual who works in agricultural employment of a seasonal or
other temporary nature who is required to be absent from his/her place
of permanent residence in order to secure such employment.
Non-profit Organization
Refers to an organization, including a faith-based or community-
based organization, which meets the requirement for proof of non-profit
status in the III. Eligibility Information 3. Other section of this
announcement and has demonstrated experience in providing training to
individuals and organizations on methods of effectively addressing the
needs of low-income families and communities.
Poverty Income Guidelines
Guidelines published annually by the U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services (HHS). HHS establishes the level of poverty defined as
low-income for individuals and their families. The guideline
information is posted on the Internet at the following address: http://www.aspe.hhs.gov/poverty.
Seasonal Farm Worker
Any individual employed in agricultural work of a seasonal or other
temporary nature who is able to remain at his/her place of permanent
residence while employed.
Project Period
The total time for which a project is approved for support,
including any approved extensions.
Self-Sufficiency
A condition where an individual or family does not need, and is not
eligible to receive, TANF assistance under Title I of the Personal
Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 (Part A
of Title IV of the Social Security Act.)
Underserved Area
(As it pertains to child nutrition programs) A locality in which
less than one-half of the low-income children eligible for assistance
participate in any child nutrition program.
5. Other
Mobilization of Resources--There is no match requirement for the
Community Food and Nutrition Program. However, ACF/OCS would like to
mobilize as many resources as possible to enhance this nationwide
initiative. The lack of a cost share or match will not affect
application responsiveness or screening, review or scoring, or
selection for funding.
Administrative Costs/Indirect Costs--There is no predetermined
administrative cost ceiling for projects funded under this program.
Indirect costs consistent with approved indirect cost rate agreements
are allowable. Applicants should enclose a copy of the current approved
rate agreement. However, it should be understood that indirect costs
are part of, and not in addition to, the amount of funds awarded in the
subject grant.
Multiple Submittals--There is no limit to the number of
applications that can be submitted by an eligible applicant as long as
each application is for a different project. However, no applicant will
receive more than one grant.
Repeat Grantee--Applicants receiving ACF/OCS funds for CFNP
projects completed within the last five years must submit with the
application an abstract for each such project. The abstract should
include the applicant's name, address, CFNP grant number and amount,
the title of the project, and a summary of accomplishments.
Priority Area 1
Description
The Community Food and Nutrition Program--Nationwide Initiative is
a national research project to study the impact of current CFNP
projects on low-income communities, families, and children nationwide.
The applicant selected to manage the Nationwide Initiative will be
responsible for performing this task in coordination with the Office of
Community Services.
II. Award Information
Funding Instrument Type: Cooperative Agreement.
Federal Substantial Involvement With Cooperative Agreement: This
announcement uses a cooperative agreement as the vehicle for funding
the nationwide initiative. A cooperative agreement is an assistance
instrument for which substantial involvement is anticipated between the
awarding office and the recipient during performance of the funded
activity. Substantial involvement may include collaboration or
participation by the designated awarding office staff in activities
specified in the award and, as appropriate, decision-making at
specified milestones related to performance. Potential types of
substantial involvement under a cooperative agreement include, but are
not limited to, collaborating in the design of a research protocol or a
training or service delivery model; approving research protocols or
analytical approaches or approving the initiation of a subsequent phase
in a phased activity; training project staff in participating
organizations; assisting in the evaluation of potential contractors;
participating in the presentation of research results, including co-
authorship of papers; or providing other assistance in program
management or technical performance.
ACF/OCS and the recipient will each be responsible for particular
duties and responsibilities throughout the project.
Responsibilities of ACF/OCS:
Throughout the term of the cooperative agreement, provide
the time and expertise of ACF/OCS to help the applicant implement the
goals and objectives of the project. Specifically, ACF/OCS will
organize periodic consultations and teleconferences to review planned
activities, to share information, and to promote nationwide
coordination;
Provide to the applicant a complete list of current
Community Food and Nutrition Program (CFNP) grantees;
Organize a 2-3 day meeting in Washington, DC to discuss
and finalize the major goals and objectives of the overall project and
the fiscal year work plan, to exchange program information, and to
share information on strategies for achieving the goals and objectives
of the project;
Review and comment on quarterly progress reports and other
relevant materials prior to their finalization;
Make available to the applicant program information and/or
products from ACF/OCS activities that are available and relevant to the
project;
Promote the involvement of the applicant in meetings,
conferences, and other initiatives to strengthen its knowledge and
resource base for providing effective assistance to ACF/OCS and CFNP
grantees;
Provide consultation to the grantee with regard to the
development of the work plan approaches to address problems that arise,
and identification of areas needing technical assistance;
Consult with and provide the grantee the data collection
requirements
[[Page 32798]]
of ACF/OCS, and keep the grantee informed of policy developments as
they affect the implementation of the project;
Provide timely review, comment and decisions on
significant project documents;
Work together to address issues or problems with regard to
the grantee's ability to carry out the full range of activities
included in the approved application in the most efficient and
effective manner; and
Promptly review written requests for approval of
deviations from the project description or approved budget. Any changes
that affect the terms and conditions of the grant award or revisions/
amendments to the cooperative agreement or to the approved scope of
activities will require prior written approval by the ACF Grants
Management Officer.
Responsibilities of the Grantee:
In collaboration with ACF/OCS, design, coordinate, and
implement the project;
Attend a 2-3 day meeting in Washington, DC to discuss and
finalize the major goals and objectives of the overall project and the
fiscal year work plan, exchange and share information on strategies for
achieving the goals and objectives of the project;
Establish subordinate objectives to guide the focus of
their research based upon the needs assessed in the major objectives;
Develop a CFNP database for use and maintenance by ACF/
OCS;
Implement activities described in the approved project
description;
Develop and implement work plans that will ensure that the
services and activities included in the approved application address
the goals and objectives of the approved project in an efficient,
effective and timely manner;
Submit regular semi-annual Financial Status (Standard Form
269) and progress reports that describe activities including, at a
minimum, (a) information about the actions taken to implement the
proposed project, and (b) the proposed plan for outcomes measurement
and program evaluation of the activities supported with Federal funds;
Work cooperatively and collaborately with ACF officials,
other Federal agency officials conducting related activities, and other
entities or organizations contracted by ACF to assist in carrying out
the purposes of the Community Food and Nutrition Program; such
cooperation and collaboration shall include, but not be limited to,
providing requested financial and programmatic information, creating
opportunities for interviews with agency officials and staff, and
allowing on-site observation of activities supported under the
cooperative agreement;
Notify the Community Food and Nutrition Project Officer if
revisions are needed to the cooperative agreement; and
Consult with the Office of Community Services Project
Officer in implementing the activities on an ongoing and frequent basis
during each phase of the project.
Anticipated Total Priority Area Funding: $236,019.
Anticipated Number of Awards: 1.
Ceiling on Amount of Individual Awards Per Budget Period: $236,019.
An application that exceeds the upper value of the dollar range
specified will be considered non-responsive.
Average Projected Award Amount Per Budget Period: $236,019.
Length of Project Periods: 36-month project with three 12-month
budget periods.
III. Eligibility Information
1. Eligible Applicants
Non-profits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, public
agencies, other than institutions of higher education; Non-profits that
do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, public agencies, other
than institutions of higher education; and State, county and local
public agencies.
Additional Information on Eligibility:
Faith-based and community-based organizations are eligible to
apply.
2. Cost Sharing/Matching
No. There is no match requirement for the Community Food and
Nutrition Program. However, OCS would like to mobilize as many
resources as possible to enhance this nationwide initiative. While OCS
supports and encourages applications submitted by applicants whose
programs include a voluntary cost share, either cash or third party in-
kind, the presence or level of a proposed voluntary cost share or match
will not affect application responsiveness or screening, review or
scoring, or selection for funding.
3. Other
All applicants must have a Dun & Bradstreet number. 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 Federal grant applicants to provide a
Dun & 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.
Non-profit organizations applying for funding are required to
submit proof of their non-profit status.
Proof of non-profit status is any one of the following:
A reference to the applicant organization's listing in the
Internal Revenue Service's (IRS) most recent list of tax-exempt
organizations described in the IRS Code.
A copy of a currently valid IRS tax exemption certificate.
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
earning accrue to any private shareholders or individuals.
A certified copy of the organization's certificate of
incorporation or similar document that clearly establishes non-profit
status.
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.
Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with
their applications the survey located under ``Grant Related Documents
and Forms,'' ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant Applicants,''
titled, ``Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants,'' at:
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
Disqualification Factors
Applications that exceed the ceiling amount will be considered non-
responsive and will not be considered for funding under this
announcement.
Any application that fails to satisfy the deadline requirements
referenced in Section IV.3 will be considered non-
[[Page 32799]]
responsive and will not be considered for funding under this
announcement.
IV. Application and Submission Information
1. Address To Request Application Package
Catherine Beck, Administration for Children and Families, Office of
Community Services' Operations Center, 1515 Wilson Boulevard, Suite
100, Arlington, VA 22209, Phone: 202-401-9352, Fax: 703-528-0716, e-
mail: [email protected]; URL: http://www.lcgnet.com.
2. Content and Form of Application Submission
Application Content--An original and two copies of each application
are required. Each application must include the following components:
Table of Contents. The Table of Contents must include page
numbers.
Abstract of the Proposed Project. Very brief, not to
exceed 250 words. The abstract should be suitable for use in an
announcement that the application has been selected for a grant award
and that identifies the type of project, the target population and the
major elements of the work plan
Completed Standard Form 424. Must be signed by an official
of the organization applying for the grant who has authority to
obligate the organization legally.
Standard Form 424A. Budget Information-Non-Construction
Programs.
Narrative Budget Justification. Justify each object class
category required under Section B, Standard Form 424A. Applicants have
the option of omitting from the application copies (not the original)
of specific salary rates or amounts for individuals specified in the
application budget.
Project Narrative. A narrative that addresses issues
described in Section V of this announcement, ``Application Review
Information.''
Application Format--Submit application materials on white 8\1/2\ x
11 inch paper only. Do not use colored, oversized or folded materials.
Please do not include organizational brochures or other promotional
materials, slides, films, clips, etc. The font size may be no smaller
than 12 pitch and the margins must be at least one inch on all sides.
Number all application pages sequentially throughout the package,
beginning with the abstract of the proposed project as page number one.
Please present application materials either in loose-leaf notebooks or
in folders with pages two-hole punched at the top center and fastened
separately with a slide paper fastener.
Page Limitation--The application package including sections for the
Table of Contents, Project Abstract, Project and Budget Narratives must
not exceed 45 pages. The page limitation does not include the following
attachments and appendices: Standard Forms for Assurances,
Certifications, Disclosures and appendices. The page limitation also
does not apply to any supplemental documents as required in this
announcement.
Required Standard Forms--Applicants requesting financial assistance
for a non-construction project must sign and return Standard Form 424B,
Assurances: Non-Construction Programs with their applications.
Applicants must provide a Certification Regarding Lobbying. Prior to
receiving an award in excess of $100,000, applicants shall furnish an
executed copy of the lobbying certification. Applicants must sign and
return the certification with their application. Applicants must make
the appropriate certification of their compliance with the requirements
of the Pro-Children Act of 1994 as outlined in Certification Regarding
Environmental Tobacco Smoke.
You may submit your application to us in either 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. ACF
will not accept grant applications via e-mail or facsimile
transmission.
Please note the following if you plan to submit your application
electronically via Grants.gov:
Electronic submission is voluntary, but strongly
encouraged.
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 electronic format, nor will we penalize
you if you submit an application in paper format.
You may submit all documents electronically, including all
information typically included on the SF 424 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.
Applicants who are submitting their application in paper format
should submit an original and two copies of the complete application.
The original and each of the two copies must include all required
forms, certifications, assurances, and appendices, be signed by an
authorized representative, have original signatures, and be submitted
unbound.
Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with
their applications the survey located under ``Grant Related Documents
and Forms,'' ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant Applicants,''
titled, ``Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants,'' at:
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
Standard Forms and Certifications:
The project description should include all the information
requirements described in the specific evaluation criteria outlined in
the program announcement under Section V Application Review
Information. In addition to the project description, the applicant
needs to complete all the standard forms required for making
applications for awards under this announcement.
Applicants seeking financial assistance under this announcement
must file the Standard Form SF 424, Application for Federal Assistance;
SF 424A, Budget Information--Non-Construction Programs; SF 424B,
Assurances--Non-Construction Programs. The forms may be reproduced for
use in submitting applications. Applicants must sign and return the
standard forms with their application.
Applicants must furnish prior to award an executed copy of the
Standard Form LLL, Certification Regarding
[[Page 32800]]
Lobbying, 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, if applicable, with their applications (approved by
the Office of Management and Budget under control number 0348-0046).
Applicants must sign and return the certification with their
application.
Applicants must also understand that they will be held accountable
for the smoking prohibition included within Pub. L. 103-227, Title XII
Environmental Tobacco Smoke (also known as the PRO-KIDS Act of 1994). A
copy of the Federal Register notice that implements the smoking
prohibition is included with forms. By signing and submitting the
application, applicants are providing the certification and need not
mail back the certification with the application.
Applicants must make the appropriate certification of their
compliance with all Federal statutes relating to nondiscrimination. By
signing and submitting the applications, applicants are providing the
certification and need not mail back the certification form. Complete
the standard forms and the associated certifications and assurances
based on the instructions on the forms. The forms and certifications
may be found at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
Please see Section V.1. Criteria, for instructions on preparing the
full project description.
3. Submission Dates and Times
Due Date for Applications: August 5, 2005.
Explanation of Due Dates:
The closing time and date for receipt of applications is referenced
above. Applications received after 4:30 p.m. eastern time on the
closing date will be classified as late.
Deadline: Applications shall be considered as meeting an announced
deadline if they are received on or before the deadline time and date
referenced in Section IV.6. Applicants are responsible for ensuring
applications are mailed or submitted electronically well in advance of
the application due date.
Applications hand carried by applicants, applicant couriers, other
representatives of the applicant, or by overnight/express mail couriers
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., eastern time, at the address referenced in Section
IV.6., between Monday and Friday (excluding Federal holidays).
ACF cannot accommodate transmission of applications by facsimile.
Therefore, applications transmitted to ACF by fax will not be accepted
regardless of date or time of submission and time of receipt.
Receipt acknowledgement for application packages will not be
provided to applicants who submit their package via mail, courier
services, or by hand delivery. Applicants will receive an electronic
acknowledgement for applications that are submitted via Grants.gov.
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.
Any application received after 4:30 p.m. eastern time on the
deadline date will not be considered for competition.
Applicants using express/overnight mail services should allow two
working days prior to the deadline date for receipt of applications.
Applicants are cautioned that express/overnight mail services do not
always deliver as agreed.
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 mail service, or in other rare
cases. A determination to extend or waive deadline requirements rests
with the Chief Grants Management Officer.
Checklist:
You may use the checklist below as a guide when preparing your
application package.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What to submit Required content Required form or format When to submit
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Table of Contents............... See Section IV.... the ``Application By application due date.
Format'' section of
this announcement..
Project Abstract................ See Section IV.... the ``Application By application due date.
Format'' section of
this announcement..
Project Narrative............... See Section IV.... the ``Application By application due date.
Format'' section of
this announcement..
SF424........................... See Section IV.... http://www.acf.hhs.gov/ By application due date.
programs/ofs/forms.htm.
SF424A.......................... See Section IV.... http://www.acf.hhs.gov/ By application due date.
programs/ofs/forms.htm.
Assurances and Certifications... See Section IV.... http://www.acf.hhs.gov/ By application due date.
programs/ofs/forms.htm.
Certification Regarding Lobbying See Section IV.... http://www.acf.hhs.gov/ By application due date.
programs/ofs/forms.htm.
Certification Regarding See Section IV.... http://www.acf.hhs.gov/ By application due date.
Environmental Tobacco Smoke. programs/ofs/forms.htm.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Additional Forms:
Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with
their applications the survey located under ``Grant Related Documents
and Forms,'' ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant Applicants,''
titled, ``Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants,'' at:
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What to submit Required content Location When to submit
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Survey for Private, Non-Profit See form.......... May be found on http:// By application due date.
Grant Applicants. www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs/ofs/forms.htm.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 32801]]
4. Intergovernmental Review
State Single Point of Contact (SPOC)
This program is covered under Executive Order 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 1, 2004, the following jurisdictions have elected to
participate in the Executive Order process: Arkansas, California,
Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa,
Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New
Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South
Carolina, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, Wisconsin, American Samoa, Guam,
North Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and Virgin Islands. As these
jurisdictions have elected to participate in the Executive Order
process, they have established SPOCs. Applicants from participating
jurisdictions should contact their SPOC, as soon as possible, to alert
them of prospective applications and receive instructions. Applicants
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 clearly
differentiate 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, Office of Grants Management, Division of
Discretionary Grants, 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Aerospace Building,
Washington, DC 20447-0002.
Although the remaining jurisdictions have chosen not to participate
in the process, entities that meet 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. Therefore,
applicants from these jurisdictions, or for projects administered by
federally-recognized Indian Tribes, need take no action in regard to
E.O. 12372.
The official list, including addresses, of the jurisdictions that
have elected to participate in E.O. 12372 can be found on the following
URL: http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html.
A list of Single Points of Contact for each State and Territory is
included with the application materials for this announcement.
5. Funding Restrictions
SF 424, SF 424A, and SF 424B--The application must contain a signed
Standard Form 424, Application for Federal Assistance (SF 424), a
Standard Form 424A Budget Information (SF 424A) and signed Standard
Form 424B Assurance--Non-Construction Programs (SF 424B) completed
according to instructions provided in this Program Announcement.
Proof of Non-Profit Status--For non-profit organizations, the
application must contain documentation of the applicant's tax-exempt
status as indicated in Section III of this announcement, Eligible
Applicants.
Project Narrative--The application must include a project narrative
that addresses issues described in Section V of this announcement.
Sub-Contracting or Delegating Projects--ACF/OCS will not fund any
project where the role of the applicant is primarily to serve as a
conduit for funds to organizations other than the applicant. The
applicant must have a substantive role in the implementation of the
project for which funding is requested. This prohibition does not bar
the making of sub-grants or sub-contracting for specific services or
activities to conduct the project.
Number of Projects in Application--Each application may include
only one proposed project.
Page Limitation--The application package including sections for the
Table of Contents, Project Abstract, Project and Budget Narratives must
not exceed 45 pages. The page limitation does not include the following
attachments and appendices: Standard Forms for Assurances,
Certifications, Disclosures and appendices. The page limitation also
does not apply to any supplemental documents as required in this
announcement.
Maximum Grant Amount--An application that exceeds the ceiling on
the amount of the award, will be considered non-responsive and be
returned to the applicant without further review.
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 4:30 p.m. eastern time on or before the closing date.
Applications should be mailed to: Administration for Children and
Families, Office of Community Services' Operations Center, 1515 Wilson
Boulevard, Suite 100, Arlington, VA 22209, Attention: Catherine Beck.
Hand Delivery: 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 4:30
p.m. eastern time on or before the closing date. Applications that are
hand delivered will be accepted between the hours of 8 a.m. to 4:30
p.m. eastern time, Monday through Friday. Applications should be
delivered to: Administration for Children and Families, Office of
Community Services' Operations Center, 1515 Wilson Boulevard, Suite
100, Arlington, VA 22209; Attention: Catherine Beck.
Electronic Submission: http://www.Grants.gov 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 25 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 April 30, 2007.
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.
1. Criteria
Purpose
The project description provides a major means by which an
application is evaluated and ranked to compete with other applications
for available assistance. The project description should be concise and
complete and should address the activity for which Federal funds are
being requested.
[[Page 32802]]
Supporting documents should be included where they can present
information clearly and succinctly. In preparing your project
description, information responsive to each of the requested evaluation
criteria must be provided. Awarding offices use this and other
information in making their funding recommendations. It is important,
therefore, that this information be included in the application in a
manner that is clear and complete.
General Instructions
ACF is particularly interested in specific project descriptions
that focus on outcomes and convey strategies for achieving intended
performance. Project descriptions are evaluated on the basis of
substance and measurable outcomes, not length. Extensive exhibits are
not required. Cross-referencing should be used rather than repetition.
Supporting information concerning activities that will not be directly
funded by the grant or information that does not directly pertain to an
integral part of the grant funded activity should be placed in an
appendix. Pages should be numbered and a table of contents should be
included for easy reference.
Introduction
Applicants required to submit a full project description shall
prepare the project description statement in accordance with the
following instructions while being aware of the specified evaluation
criteria. The text options give a broad overview of what your project
description should include while the evaluation criteria identifies the
measures that will be used to evaluate applications.
Project Summary/Abstract
Provide a summary of the project description (a page or less) with
reference to the funding request.
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.
Results or Benefits Expected
Identify the results and benefits to be derived.
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.
Additional Information
Following are requests for additional information that need to be
included in the application:
Staff and Position Data
Provide a biographical sketch and job description for each key
person appointed. Job descriptions for each vacant key position should
be included as well. As new key staff is appointed, biographical
sketches will also be required.
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. If the
applicant is a non-profit organization, submit proof of non-profit
status in its application.
The non-profit agency can accomplish this by providing: (a) A
reference to the applicant organization's listing in the Internal
Revenue Service's (IRS) most recent list 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 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.
Letters of Support
Provide statements from community, public and commercial leaders
that support the project proposed for funding. All submissions should
be included in the application OR by application deadline.
Budget and Budget Justification
Provide a budget with 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. 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.
General
Use the following guidelines for preparing the budget and budget
[[Page 32803]]
justification. Both Federal and non-Federal resources shall be detailed
and justified in the budget and narrative justification. ``Federal
resources'' refers only to the ACF grant for which you are applying.
``Non-Federal resources'' are all other Federal and non-Federal
resources. It is suggested that budget amounts and computations be
presented in a columnar format: first column, object class categories;
second column, Federal budget; next column(s), non-Federal budget(s),
and last column, total budget. The budget justification should be a
narrative.
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 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 that belong under other categories such as equipment,
supplies, construction, etc. Include 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.
Justification: Demonstrate that all procurement transactions will
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 45 CFR 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) (currently set at $100,000).
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, upon notification that an award will be made, it
should immediately develop a tentative indirect cost rate proposal
based on its most recently completed fiscal year, in accordance with
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. 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.
Non-Federal Resources
Description: Amounts of non-Federal resources that will be used to
support the project as identified in Block 15 of the SF-424.
Justification: The firm commitment of these resources must be
documented and submitted with the application so the applicant is given
credit in the review process. A detailed budget must be prepared for
each funding source.
Evaluation Criteria:
The following evaluation criteria appear in weighted descending
order. The corresponding score values indicate the relative importance
that ACF places on each evaluation criterion; however,
[[Page 32804]]
applicants need not develop their applications precisely according to
the order presented. Application components may be organized such that
a reviewer will be able to follow a seamless and logical flow of
information (e.g., from a broad overview of the project to more
detailed information about how it will be conducted).
In considering how applicants will carry out the responsibilities
addressed under this announcement, competing applications for financial
assistance will be reviewed and evaluated against the following
criteria:
Organizational Profiles 45 Points
(a) Organizational Experience in Program Area (20 Points)
The application will be evaluated on the extent to which it
documents the organization's capability and relevant experience in
developing and operating a nationwide program that deals with problems
similar to those to be addressed by the proposed project. Documentation
provided should indicate that projects previously undertaken have been
relevant and effective and have provided permanent benefits.
Organizations proposing training and technical assistance should have
detailed competence in the program area and expertise in training and
technical assistance. If applicable, information provided in these
applications should also address related achievements and competence of
each cooperating or sponsoring organization.
(b) Management History (0-10Points)
The application will be evaluated on the extent to which it
demonstrates the applicant's ability to implement sound and effective
management practices. If the applicant has been a recipient of other
Federal or governmental grants, it must also document its compliance
with financial and program progress reporting and audit requirements.
Such documentation may be in the form of references to any available
audit or progress reports and should be accompanied by a statement from
a Certified or Licensed Public Accountant as to the sufficiency of the
applicant's financial management system to protect adequately any
Federal funds awarded under the application submitted.
(c) Staff Skills, Resources and Responsibilities (0-15 Points)
The application will be evaluated on the extent to which it
adequately describes the experience and skills of the proposed Project
Director, showing that the individual is not only well qualified, but
that his/her professional capabilities are relevant to successfully
implementing the project. If the key staff person has not yet been
identified, the application should contain a comprehensive position
description indicating that the responsibilities to be assigned to the
Project Director are relevant to successfully implementing the project.
The application must indicate that it has adequate facilities and
resources (i.e. space and equipment) to carry out the work plan
successfully. In addressing the above criterion, the applicant must
clearly show that sufficient time of the Project Director and other
senior staff will be budgeted to assure timely project implementation
and oversight and that the assigned responsibilities of the staff are
appropriate to the tasks identified.
Objectives and Need for Assistance 25 Points
(a) Description of Target Population (0-10 Points)
The application will be evaluated on the extent to which it
describes the target area and population to be served.
(b) Analysis of Needs/Priorities (0-15 Points)
The application will be evaluated on the extent to which it
discusses the nature and extent of the nationwide youth overweight and
obesity problem, including specific information on low-income and
minority population youth.
Approach 15 Points
(a) Realistic Quarterly Time Lines (0-5 Points)
The application will be evaluated on the extent to which it
provides realistic quarterly projections of the activities to be
carried out.
(b) Detailed Work Plan (0-10 Points)
The application will be evaluated on the extent to which it ensures
that activities are adequately described and appear reasonably likely
to achieve results that will have a desired impact on the identified
problem(s).
Budget and Budget Justification 10 Points
Every application must include a Budget Justification, placed after
the budget forms SF 424 and 424A, explaining the sources and uses of
project funds. The budget is adequate and administrative costs are
appropriate to the services proposed.
Results or Benefits Expected 5 Points
Identify the results and benefits to be derived from the proposed
project.
2. Review and Selection Process
No grant award will be made under this announcement on the basis of
an incomplete application.
Initial ACF/OCS Screening--Each application submitted to ACF/OCS
will be screened to determine whether it was received by the closing
date and time.
Applications received by the closing date and time will be screened
for completeness and conformity with the following requirements.
All applications must comply with the following requirements except
as noted:
The application must contain a signed Standard Form 424
Application for Federal Assistance ``SF 424,'' a Standard Form 424-A
Budget Information ``SF 424A'' and signed Standard Form 424B
Assurance--Non-Construction Programs ``SF 424B'' completed according to
instructions provided in this Program Announcement. The forms SF 424
and the SF 424B must be signed by an official of the organization
applying for the grant who has authority to obligate the organization
legally. The applicant's legal name as required on the SF 424 (Item 5)
must match that listed as corresponding to the Employer Identification
Number (Item 6).
The application must include a project narrative that
meets the requirements set forth in this announcement at Section V.
The application must contain documentation of the
applicant's tax-exempt status as indicated in Section III of this
announcement, Eligibility Information.
The application package including sections for the Table
of Contents, Project Abstract, Project and Budget Narratives must not
exceed 45 pages. The page limitation does not include the following
attachments and appendices: Standard Forms for Assurances,
Certifications, Disclosures and appendices. The page limitation also
does not apply to any supplemental documents as required in this
announcement.
Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit
with their applications the optional survey located under ``Grants
Related Documents and Forms,'' ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant
Applicants,'' titled, ``Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for
Applicants,'' at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
ACF/OCS Evaluation of Applications--Applications that pass the
initial ACF/OCS screening will be reviewed and rated by a panel based
on the program elements and review criteria presented in relevant
sections of this program announcement.
The review criteria are designed to enable the review panel to
assess the quality of a proposed project and determine the likelihood
of its success. The criteria are closely related to each
[[Page 32805]]
other and are considered as a whole in judging the overall quality of
an application.
The review panel awards points only to applications that are
responsive to the program elements and relevant review criteria within
the context of this program announcement.
The ACF/OCS Director and program staff use the reviewer scores when
considering competing applications. Reviewer scores will weigh heavily
in funding decisions, but will not be the only factors considered.
Applications generally will be considered in order of the average
scores assigned by the review panel. Because other important factors
are taken into consideration, highly ranked applications are not
guaranteed funding. These other considerations include, for example:
the timely and proper completion by the applicant of projects funded
with ACF/OCS funds granted in the last five (5) years; comments of
reviewers and government officials; staff evaluation and input; amount
and duration of the grant requested and the proposed project's
consistency and harmony with ACF/OCS goals and policies; geographic
distribution of applications; previous program performance of
applicants; compliance with grant terms under previous HHS grants;
audit reports; investigative reports; and applicant's progress in
resolving any final audit disallowance on previous ACF/OCS or other
Federal agency grants.
Since ACF will be using non-Federal reviewers in the review
process, applicants have the option of omitting from the application
copies (not the original) specific salary rates or amounts for
individuals specified in the application budget.
Approved but Unfunded Applications.
Applications that are approved but unfunded may be held over for
funding in the next funding cycle, pending the availability of funds,
for a period not to exceed one year.
3. Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates
Announcements and awards will be issued no later than September 30,
2005.
VI. Award Administration Information
1. Award Notices
The successful applicants will be notified through the issuance of
a Financial Assistance Award document, which sets forth the amount of
funds granted, the terms and conditions of the grant, the effective
date of the grant, the budget period for which initial support will be
given, the non-Federal share to be provided, and the total project
period for which support is contemplated. The Financial Assistance
Award will be signed by the Grants Officer and transmitted via postal
mail.
Organizations whose applications will not be funded will be
notified in writing.
2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements
Grantees are subject to the requirements in 45 CFR Part 74 (non-
governmental) or 45 CFR Part 92 (governmental); 45 CFR Part 1050.
Direct Federal grants, subaward funds, or contracts under this
Program shall not be used to support inherently religious activities
such as religious instruction, worship, or proselytization. Therefore,
organizations must take steps to separate, in time or location, their
inherently religious activities from the services funded under this
Program. Regulations pertaining to the prohibition of Federal funds for
inherently religious activities can be found on the HHS Web site at:
http://www.os.dhhs.gov/fbci/waisgate21.pdf.
3. Reporting Requirements
Program Progress Reports: Semi-Annually.
Financial Reports: Semi-Annually.
Grantees will be required to submit program progress and financial
reports (SF 269) throughout the project period. Program progress and
financial reports are due 30 days after the reporting period. In
addition, final programmatic and financial reports are due 90 days
after the close of the project period.
VII. Agency Contacts
Program Office Contact: Catherine Beck, Administration for Children
and Families, Office of Community Services' Operations Center, 1515
Wilson Boulevard, Suite 100, Arlington, VA 22209, phone: 202-401-9352,
Fax: 703-528-0716; e-mail: [email protected].
Grants Management Office Contact: Barbara Ziegler-Johnson,
Administration for Children and Families, Office of Grants Management,
Division of Discretionary Grants, 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW.,
Aerospace Building, Washington, DC 20447-0002, phone: 202-401-4646,
Fax: 703-528-0716; e-mail: [email protected].
VIII. Other Information
Notice: Beginning with FY 2006, the Administration for Children and
Families (ACF) will no longer publish grant announcements in the
Federal Register. Beginning October 1, 2005 applicants will be able to
find a synopsis of all ACF grant opportunities and apply electronically
for opportunities via: http://www.Grants.gov. Applicants will also be
able to find the complete text of all ACF grant announcements on the
ACF Web site located at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/index.html.
The FY 2006 President's budget does not include or propose funding
for the Food and Nutrition Program. Future funding is based on the
availability of Federal funds.
Please reference Section IV.3 for details about acknowledgement of
received applications.
Dated: May 26, 2005.
Josephine B. Robinson,
Director, Office of Community Services.
[FR Doc. 05-11192 Filed 6-3-05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4184-01-P