[Federal Register: June 16, 2005 (Volume 70, Number 115)]
[Notices]
[Page 35087-35097]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr16jn05-48]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Administration for Children and Families
Administration on Children, Youth and Families, Children's Bureau
Funding Opportunity Title: Training of Child Welfare Agency
Supervisors in the Effective Delivery and Management of Federal
Independent Living Service for Youth in Foster Care
Announcement Type: Initial.
Funding Opportunity Number: HHS-2005-ACF-ACYF-CW-0009.
CFDA Number: 93.556.
Due Date for Applications: August 5, 2005.
Category of Funding Activity: Social Services and Income Security.
Executive Summary: The Children's Bureau announces the availability
of funds and requests applications to develop, implement, evaluate and
disseminate a training curriculum for public child welfare agency
supervisors. This curriculum will strengthen supervision of staff
interventions with older youth who are in foster care and/or in
independent living programs. These youth, mostly ages 16 to 21, need
assistance in making a successful transition to adulthood, as well as
achieving self-sufficiency to avoid long-term dependency on the social
welfare system.
These youth often face decisions with regard to personal housing,
transportation, employment and education. They need workers who can
guide them and who understand these challenges. The target youth also
need workers who have a working knowledge of adolescent transition
programs. ``In the continuing work of the Muskie School of Public
Service, University of Southern Maine and National Resource Center for
Youth Services, College of Continuing Education University of Oklahoma,
four core principles have emerged as essential in order for adolescent
transitional living programs to be successful.'' It is the thinking of
current experts in the field that programs for youth are more likely to
be successful when these four principles are incorporated into the
program design regardless of the type of services provided. The
principles are:
(1) Positive youth development;
(2) Collaboration;
(3) Cultural competence; and
(4) Permanent connections.
Priority Area 1
I. Funding Opportunity Description
The Children's Bureau announces the availability of funds and
requests applications to develop, implement, evaluate and disseminate a
training curriculum for public child welfare agency supervisors. This
curriculum will strengthen supervision of staffs' interventions with
older youth who are in foster care and/or in independent living
programs. These youth, mostly age 16 to 21, need assistance in making a
successful transition to adulthood, as well as help in avoiding long-
term dependency on the social welfare system.
These youth often face decisions with regard to personal housing,
transportation, employment and education. They need workers who can
guide them and who understand these challenges. The target youth also
need workers who have a working knowledge of adolescent transition
programs. ``In the continuing work of the Muskie School of Public
Service, University of Southern Maine and National Resource Center for
Youth Services, College of Continuing Education University of
[[Page 35088]]
Oklahoma, four core principles have emerged as essential in order for
adolescent transitional living programs to be successful.'' It is the
thinking of current experts in the field that programs for youth are
more likely to be successful when these four principles are
incorporated into the program design regardless of the type of services
provided. The principles are:
(1) Positive youth development;
(2) Collaboration;
(3) Cultural competence; and
(4) Permanent connections.
For more information on these principles contact the University of
Oklahoma, National Resource Center for Youth Services at http://www.nrcys.ou.edu
.
Child welfare supervisors must ensure that child welfare workers
understand and utilize:
(1) Positive youth development philosophy;
(2) Client assessment;
(3) Age-appropriate intervention planning; and
(4) Implementation and evaluation of individualized Independent
Living Program (ILP) training and program activities.
Training based on the curriculum should increase child welfare
supervisor's ability to supervise a worker in:
(1) Assessing a youth's readiness for ILP services, support and
training;
(2) Identifying culturally competent ILP program services and
activities;
(3) Utilizing positive youth development principles for involving
youth in decisionmaking, implementation and evaluation of training and
program activities;
(4) Identifying areas of stress and its impact on youth in foster
care;
(5) Working with youth to help them deal with crisis situations and
to assess the results of the intervention;
(6) Working with youth to develop and maintain permanent
connections; and
(7) Collaborating with both inter- and intra-agency resource people
to achieve positive outcomes for youth transitioning to adulthood.
Background
In December 1999, Congress passed new independent living
legislation, the John H. Chaffee Foster Care Independence Program which
amended the original Federal Independent Living Program (section 477 of
the Social Security Act). The new program provides States with
increased funding and flexibility to help youth make the transition
from foster care to self-sufficiency. Currently all 50 States, Puerto
Rico and the District of Columbia have an ILP. Services and activities
include educational and employment assistance, training in basic living
skills (budgeting, housekeeping, food shopping, building and
maintaining positive social relationships), counseling, housing, case
management and outreach services. The new legislation allows the use of
these funds for additional activities including room and board, age-
appropriate services to youth younger than 16, post-secondary
educational assistance and preventive health activities.
In addition, the Adoption and Safe Families Act of 1997 (ASFA) has
had considerable impact on child welfare practice and how the goals of
safety, permanency and well-being of youth must be accomplished. Thus,
there is a need to refocus attention on practice approaches that give
attention, as appropriate, to reunification with the biological
parents, adoption, placement, or other alternative approaches to
permanency for youth of all ages. For many older foster care youth,
even if they can spend time with family members, their chances for a
successful transition to adulthood are greatly improved if they learn
to count on themselves to address their daily challenges, and if they
have the knowledge, skills and experience to do so.
Older youth in foster care need special help and support. As of
September 30, 2002 there were an estimated 533,897 children in
substitute/foster care. Of these children an estimated 39 percent were
identified as being 13 years of age or older (AFCARS--Adoption and
Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System--data as of October 2003).
Approximately 20,000 youth age out of the system every year. These
young people often have histories of significant abuse, neglect and
multiple foster care placements. They often find themselves completely
on their own after discharge, with few, if any, financial resources;
limited education, training and employment options; no safe place to
live; and little or no support from family, friends and community. A
focus on the four core principles for these youth is crucial. The
permanent connections work to help ground the youth in the community
and provide a support system that these traumatized youth often lack.
Collaborations help to ensure that a full array of services is
available to the youth during and after their transition from care. A
focus on positive youth development allows the youth to have the daily
living skills needed to function on their own along with the knowledge
to maintain their emotional health. Through the provision of culturally
competent services, the agencies ensure that youth feel protected and
connected in their environment.
Training of child welfare supervisors has predominantly focused on
supervising staff to meet generalized permanency needs while focusing
on the family as a whole. Most of this work is still done in the
context of family-centered services that build on family strengths and
meet family needs. There is limited attention given to assessing
problem situations from the youth's perspective and preparing a youth
for independence and/or transitioning out of foster care. This training
would focus on strategies for supervising the child welfare worker in
how to identify the specific needs of these youth and develop a plan
for achieving goals to meet those needs regardless of other permanency
work being done in the family unit.
Specialized skills are essential to work effectively with older
youth. Child welfare supervisors need training to understand youth
development principles and strategies, to focus on giving young people
age-appropriate opportunities to exercise leadership, build skills, and
become involved in the decision-making about their future.
In January 2000, DHHS established the Child and Family Service
Reviews (CFSR) that have enhanced monitoring of State child welfare
programs. Previous approaches had not allowed for states to learn from
their mistakes and make improvements accordingly. Meetings with
stakeholders during CFSR indicate that foster parents, guardians and
other primary care providers need youth development training. In
addition, state agency staff need training and technical assistance in
assisting youth in developing their case plan, and developing life-long
connections that will assist them with permanency. Results of the 2002
reviews indicate that all of the states were found to need improvement
in involving the family in case planning, assessing needs and providing
services.
In the fall of 2000, the Children's Bureau awarded twelve grants
for Independent Living Training for Child Welfare practitioners. One
finding of these recently completed projects is that Child Welfare
supervisors needed training on youth development to understand the
unique developmental and service needs of youth in care in order to
support caseworker efforts.
The Children's Bureau recognizes the need to involve young people
in decision-making and planning for a life of independence. To
accomplish this,
[[Page 35089]]
service providers must offer specialized, age-appropriate support for
these youth as they transition to adulthood. Training implemented under
this program will provide child welfare supervisors with the training
and tools needed to assist child welfare workers to help move their
older youth through a successful transition to independence and
achieving self-sufficiency.
Projects funded under this announcement will be expected to:
1. Have the project fully functioning within 90 days following the
notification of the grant award.
2. Participate if the Children's Bureau chooses to do a national
evaluation or a technical assistance contract that relates to this
funding announcement.
3. Submit all performance indicator data, program and financial
reports in a timely manner, in recommended format (to be provided), and
submit the final report on disk or electronically using a standard
word-processing program.
4. Submit a copy of the final report, the evaluation report, and
any program products to the National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and
Neglect Information, 330 C Street, SW., Washington, DC 20447, within 90
days of project end date. 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.
5. Allocate sufficient funds in the budget to:
(a) Provide for the project director, the evaluator and a child
welfare representative to attend an annual 3-day grantees' meeting in
Washington, DC.
(b) Provide for the project director, the evaluator and a child
walfare representative to attend an early kickoff meeting for grantees
funded under this priority area to be held within the first three
months of the project (first year only) in Washington, DC; and
(c) Provide for 10-15 percent of the proposed budget to project
evaluaton.
Legislative Authority
The Promoting Safe and Stable Families Program (Section 430, Title
IV-B, subpart 2, of the Social Security Act) (42 U.S.C. 629a)
II. Award Information
Funding Instrument Type: Grant.
Anticipated total priority area funding: $1,000,000.
Anticipated number of awards: 0 to 4.
Average Projected Award Amount: $250,000.
Length of Project Periods: 36 month project with three 12 month
budget periods.
Other:
Explanation of other: The grant amount will not exceed $250,000 in
the first budget period. The projects will be awarded for a project
period of 36 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.
Ceiling of Individual Awards per budget period: $250,000.
Floor on amount of individual awards None.
III. Eligibility Information
1. Eligible Applicants
State governments
County governments
City or township governments
Special district governments
Independent school districts
Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than
institutions of higher education
Nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than
institutions of higher education
State controlled institutions of higher education
Private institutions of higher education
Additional Information on Eligibility
Faith-based and community organizations that meet all other
eligibility requirements are eligible to apply.
Institutions of higher education that choose to apply must have an
accredited social work education program, or other accredited bachelor
or graduate level programs leading to a degree relevant to work in
child welfare. Government agencies must be child welfare agencies to be
eligible to apply.
Collaborative efforts are acceptable, but applications should
identify a primary applicant responsible for administering the grant.
2. Cost Sharing/Matching
Cost Sharing/Matching: Yes.
Matching/Cost-Sharing
Grantees must provide at least 25 percent of the total approved
cost of the project. The total approved cost of the project is the sum
of the ACF share and the non-Federal share. The non-Federal share may
be met by cash or in-kind contributions, although applicants are
encouraged to meet their match requirements through cash contributions.
Therefore, a project requesting $250,000 in Federal funds (based on an
award of $250,000 per budget period) must provide a match of at least
$83,333 (25 percent of the total approved project costs). Grantees will
be held accountable for commitments of non-Federal resources even if
over the amount of the required match. Failure to provide the amount
will result in disallowance of Federal funds. Lack of supporting
documentation at the time of application will not impact the
responsiveness of the application for competitive review.
Cost-sharing will not be used as a preference and/or evaluation
criterion in the review of applications.
3. Other Eligibility Information
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 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.
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
[[Page 35090]]
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.
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-responsive and will
not be considered for funding under this announcement.
IV. Application and Submission Information
1. Address to Request Application Package
ACYF Operations, The Dixon Group ATTN: Children's Bureau, 118 Q
St., NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132, Phone: 866-796-1591, URL: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/open/HHS-2005-ACF-ACY-CA-0001.html
.
2. Content and Form of Application Submission
Originals, Copies and Signatures
If submitting your application in paper format, an original and two
copies of the complete application are required. 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.
Each application must contain the following items in the order
listed:
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.
Budget Information Non-Construction Programs (Form 424A) and Budget
Justification.
Follow the instructions provided here and those in Section V.
Application Review Information.
Description--Please see Section V.1. Criteria, for instructions on
preparing the project summary/abstract and the full project
description.
Proof of non-profit status (if applicable). Please see Section
III.3 Other Eligibility for ways to demonstrate non-profit status.
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.
Letters of agreement and memoranda of understanding. If applicable,
include a letter of commitment or Memorandum of Understanding from each
partner and/or sub-contractor describing their role, detailing specific
tasks to be performed, and expressing commitment to participate if the
proposed project is funded.
Match. Provide a letter of commitment verifying the actual amount
of the non-Federal share of project costs (see Section III.2).
General Content and Form information: The application limit is 75
pages total including all forms and attachments. Pages over this page
limit will be removed from the application and will not be reviewed.
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 New Roman
or Courier). Pages must be numbered.
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; however, each complete copy must be stapled
securely in the upper left corner. Applicants are advised that the
copies of the application submitted, not the original, will be
reproduced by the Federal government for review.
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 applicable
legislation. 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 Web site.
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. Applicants
should organize their project description in this sequence: (1)
Objectives and Need for Assistance; (2) Approach; (3) Organizational
Profiles; (4) Budget and Budget Justification; and should use 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/opre/other_resrch/pm_guide_eval/reports/pmguide/pmguide_toc.html
.
[[Page 35091]]
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/outcome/outcome_logicmdir.html.
Project Use of Human Subjects. If your evaluation plan includes
gathering data from or about clients, there are specific procedures
which 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. If applicable, applicants must
include a completed Form 310, Protection of Human Subjects. For more
information about use of human subjects and IRB's you can visit these
Web sites: http://www.hhs.gov/ohrp/irb/irb_chapter2.htm#d2 and http://www.hhs.gov/ohrp/humansubjects/guidance/ictips.htm.
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. 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, 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.
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
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 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 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 which 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.
Those organizations required to provide proof of non-profit status,
please refer to Section III.3.
Please see Section V.1, for instructions on preparing the full
project description.
3. Submission Dates and Times
Explanation of Due Dates: The closing time and date for receipt of
applications is 4:30 p.m. (Eastern Time Zone) on the date noted above.
Mailed or hand carried applications received after 4:30 p.m. on 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 the deadline time
and date at the ACYF Operations Center, c/o The Dixon Group, Inc.,
ATTN: Children's Bureau, 118 Q Street NE., Washington, DC 20002-2132.
Applicants are responsible for mailing applications well in advance,
when using all mail services, to ensure that the applications are
received on or before the deadline time and 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 p.m., e.s.t., at the ACYF Operations Center, c/o The Dixon Group,
Inc., ATTN: Children's Bureau, 118 Q Street NE., Washington, DC 20002-
2132, between Monday and Friday (excluding Federal holidays).
[[Page 35092]]
This address must appear on the envelope/package containing the
application with the note. Applicants are cautioned that express/
overnight mail services do not always deliver as agreed.
Late applications: Applications which 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. 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.
Required Documents
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What to submit Required content Required form or format When to submit
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Project Abstract..................... See Section IV and V... Format described in By application due
Section IV and V. date.
Project Narrative.................... See Section IV and V... Format described in By application due
Section IV and V. date.
SF424................................ See Section IV......... Format described in By application due
Section IV. date.
SF424A............................... See Section IV......... Format described in By application due
Section IV. date.
SF424B............................... See Section IV......... Format described in By application due
Section IV. date.
Assurances and Certifications........ See Section IV......... Format described in By Time of Award.
Section IV.
Proof of Non-profit status, if See Section III and IV. Format described in By Time of Award.
applicable. Section III.
Indirect Cost rate Agreement, if See Section IV......... Format described in IV. By Time of Award.
applicable.
Letters of commitment from partner See Section IV......... Format described in IV. By Time of Award.
organizations, if applicable.
Non-Federal Commitment Letter........ See Section III.2...... See Section III.2...... By Time of Award.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Additional Forms: Private, nonprofit organizations are encouraged
to submit with their applications the survey located under ``Grant
Related Documents and Forms'' titled ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit
Grant Applicants'' at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What to submit Required content Required form or format When to submit
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant Per required form...... May be found on http:// With application.
Applicants. http://www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs/ofs/forms.htm.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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 the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,
Administration for Children and Families, Office of Grants Management,
Division of Discretionary Grants, 370 L'Enfant Promenade SW., 4th
floor, Washington, DC 20447.
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
elected to participate in E.O. 12372 can be found on the following URL:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html.
[[Page 35093]]
5. Funding Restrictions
Grant awards will not allow reimbursement of pre-award costs.
Construction is not an allowable activity or expenditure under this
solicitation.
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.
Because this is a training grant, indirect costs used for these
projects shall not exceed 8 percent. Funds from this grant cannot be
used to match Title IV-E training funds.
6. Other Submission Requirements
Submission by Mail: An Application must provide an original
application with all attachments, signed by an authorized
representative and two copies. Please see Section IV.3 for an
explanation of due dates. Applications should be mailed to: ACYF
Operations Center, The Dixon Group, 118 Q St. NE., Washington, DC
20002-2132, Attention: Children's Bureau.
Hand Delivery: An Applicant must provide an original application
with all attachments signed by an authorized representative and two
copies. Please see Section IV.3 for an explanation of due dates.
Applications should be delivered to: ACYF Operations Center, The Dixon
Group, 118 Q St. NE, Washington, DC 20002-2132, Attention: Children's
Bureau.
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 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 4/30/2007.
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.
The following are instructions and guidelines on how to prepare the
``Project Summary/Abstract'' and ``Full Project Description'' sections
of the application. Under the evaluation criteria section, note that
each criterion is preceded by the generic evaluation requirement under
the ACF Uniform Project Description (UPD).
1. Criteria
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.
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. 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
[[Page 35094]]
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.
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
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 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
[[Page 35095]]
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.
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, 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:
Approach 50 Points
In reviewing the approach, the following factors will be
considered: (50 Points)
(1) The extent to which there is a reasonable timeline for
effectively implementing the proposed project, including major
milestones and target dates. The extent to which the project will
complete the development, field testing and revisions of the training
program in a timely manner and conduct a thorough evaluation of its
effectiveness within the 3-year project time frame.
(2) The extent to which the application proposes development of
appropriate materials and provides for effective training under the
proposed project.
(3) The extent to which the application demonstrates a thorough
knowledge and understanding of the issues related to interventions with
older youth and differences and similarities between youth-centered and
family-centered practice. The extent to which the application
demonstrates a thorough understanding of these issues in terms of the
Adoption and Safe Families Act goals of safety, permanency and well-
being of older youth and the results of the Child and Family Service
Reviews.
(4) The extent to which the application evidences a thorough
knowledge and understanding of the challenges of providing and
improving training for supervisors within a public child welfare
agency. The extent to which the proposed project would successfully
overcome these challenges.
(5) The extent to which past and/or current collaboration between
the applicant and the public (State/local and Tribal) agencies in
training of child welfare staff would strengthen this project. The
extent to which this project will be strengthened by building on
existing partnerships with such agencies. The extent to which the
applicant includes interagency agreements and commitments from the
participating entities. The extent to which there are strong links
between the proposed project, and the State's Child and Family Service
Review Program Improvement Plan.
(6) The extent to which the proposed approach to developing a
curriculum is soundly based on an appropriate conceptual framework,
research and practice experience. The extent to which this curriculum
would build on, expand and strengthen the existing curriculum
approaches/models that emphasize youth-focused services.
(7) The extent to which the application evidences a thorough
knowledge and understanding of the four core principles (youth
development, cultural competence, collaboration, and permanent
connections) and the challenges attendant to incorporating these
principles within child welfare practices.
(8) The extent to which the curriculum development and training of
supervisors will be culturally responsive to the diverse child welfare
population.
(9) The extent to which appropriate criteria would be utilized for
selection and recruitment of trainees. The extent to which there are
specific, sound, strategies for recruiting minority and Tribal agency
trainees.
(10) The extent to which there is a sound plan for evaluating the
training curriculum. The extent to which there is a sound plan for
field-testing the effectiveness of the competency-based curriculum and
modifying the curriculum, if necessary. The extent to which the
applicant clearly identifies and justifies the location of the project
and the State/local child welfare agencies where the proposed
curriculum will be field-tested. The extent to which the evaluation
will examine outcomes identified in this announcement.
(11) The extent to which there is a sound plan for dissemination of
the curriculum and project evaluation findings. The extent to which the
applicant's dissemination plan will contribute to the purposes
described in this announcement. The extent to which the dissemination
plan clearly describes what will be disseminated, to whom, how
extensive these efforts will be, and includes plans for evaluating
dissemination efforts.
(12) The extent to which there is a sound plan for continuing this
project beyond the period of Federal funding.
Organizational Profiles 20 Points
In reviewing the organizational profiles, the following factors
will be considered: (20 Points)
(1) The extent to which the application evidences sufficient
experience and expertise in developing training curricula and providing
training to child welfare agency staff in the area of youth-focused
services; in collaboration with child welfare agencies and other
appropriate entities; and in administration, development,
implementation, management, and evaluation of similar projects. The
extent to which each participating organization (including partners
and/or subcontractors) possesses the organizational capability to
fulfill their assigned roles and functions effectively (if the
application involves partnering and/or subcontracting with other
agencies/organizations).
(2) The extent to which the proposed 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 (e.g., resume). 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.
(3) 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
[[Page 35096]]
consultants (if applicable). 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.
Objectives and Need for Assistance 20 Points
In reviewing the objectives and need for assistance, the following
factors will be considered: (20 Points)
(1) The extent to which the application demonstrates a thorough
understanding of the need for a specific curriculum and training to
strengthen child welfare supervisors' capacity to prepare and guide
staff in their work with older youth involved in the child welfare
system.
(2) The extent to which the application demonstrates a thorough
knowledge and understanding of the issues faced by older youth involved
in the child welfare system and appropriate intervention approaches for
working with these youth.
(3) The extent to which the proposed project's goals (end products
of an effective project) and objectives (measurable steps for reaching
these goals) clearly and appropriately relate to the training needs of
public child welfare agency frontline workers and supervisory staff.
(4) The extent to which the proposed project would produce
significant results and benefits by developing, field testing,
delivering, evaluating and disseminating a youth-focused training
curriculum for supervisors.
(5) The extent to which an appropriate group of trainees and a
reasonable number of trainees will be trained over the life of the
project.
(6) The extent to which the lessons learned from the project will
clearly and significantly benefit policy, practice and theory
development in addressing older youth's transition needs, issues and
crises.
Budget and Budget Justification 10 Points
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
clearly identified, justified and reasonable, in view of the activities
to be conducted and expected results and benefits.
(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.
2. Review and Selection Process
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) of specific salary rates or amounts for
individuals specified in the application budget.
No grant award will be made under this announcement on the basis of
an incomplete application.
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.
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 un-served or inadequately served clients or service areas
and programs addressing diverse ethnic populations.
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
Applications will be reviewed in the summer of 2005. Grant awards
will have a start date 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
Direct Federal grants, sub-award 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 Equal Treatment for Faith-based
Organizations, which includes the prohibition against Federal funding
of inherently religious activities, can be found at either 45 CFR 87.1
or the HHS Web site at http://www.os.dhhs.gov/fbci/waisgate21.pdf.
Grantees are subject to the requirements in 45 CFR Part 74 (non-
governmental) or 45 CFR Part 92 (governmental) organizations.
3. Reporting Requirements
Program Progress Reports: Semi-Annually.
Financial Reports: Semi-Annually.
Grantees will be required to submit program progress reports and
financial reports (SF269) 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
[[Page 35097]]
due 90 days after the close of the project period.
VII. Agency Contacts
Program Office Contact: Pam Johnson, 330 C St., SW., Washington, DC
20447, Phone: 202-205-8086, E-mail: pjohnson@acf.hhs.gov.
Grants Management Office Contact: Peter Thompson, Grants Officer,
Administration for Children and Families, Children's Bureau, 330 C
Street, SW., Room 2070, Washington, DC 20447, Phone: 202-401-4608, E-
mail: pathompson@acf.hhs.gov.
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.
Additional information about this program and its purpose can be
located on the following Web sites: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cb/
.
For general questions regarding this announcement please contact:
ACYF Operations Center, The Dixon Group ATTN: Children's Bureau, 118 Q
Street, NE., Washington DC 20002-2132, Telephone: 866-796-1591.
Applicants will not be sent acknowledgements of received
applications.
Dated: June 8, 2005.
Susan Orr,
Acting Commissioner, Administration on Children, Youth and Families.
[FR Doc. 05-11920 Filed 6-15-05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4184-01-P