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Department of Health & Human Services
Administration for Children and Families
Federal Agency Name:
Administration for Children and Families, Office of Community
Services, HHS.
Funding Opportunity Title: CSBG T/TA Program--Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Other Asset Formation Opportunities
Announcement Type: Competitive Grant-Initial
Funding Opportunity Number: HHS-2004-ACF-OCS-ET-0028
CFDA Number: 93.570
Due Date for Applications: The due date for receipt of applications is September 9, 2004.
I. Funding Opportunity Description
The Office of Community Services (OCS) within the Administration
for Children and Families (ACF) announces that competing applications
will be accepted for a new grant pursuant to the Secretary's authority
under section 674(b) of the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Act,
as amended, by the Community Opportunities, Accountability, and
Training and Educational Services (COATES) Human Services
Reauthorization Act of 1998, (Pub. L. 105-285).
The proposed grant will fund up to seven capacity-building
collaborations that create or expand asset formation and financial
literacy services offered by eligible entities funded under the
Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Program in support of national
community action Goal 1 (``Low Income People Become More Self-
Sufficient'').
Definitions of Terms
The following definitions apply:
At-Risk Agencies refers to CSBG eligible entities in crises. The
problem(s) to be addressed must be of a complex or pervasive nature
that cannot be adequately addressed through existing local or State
resources.
Capacity-building refers to activities that assist Community Action
Agencies (CAAs) and other eligible entities to improve or enhance their
overall or specific capability to plan, deliver, manage and evaluate
programs efficiently and effectively to produce intended results for
low-income individuals. This may include upgrading internal financial
management or computer systems, establishing new external linkages
with other organizations, improving board functioning, adding or
refining a program component or replicating techniques or programs
piloted in another local community, or making other cost effective
improvements.
Community in relationship to broad representation refers to any
group of individuals who share common distinguishing characteristics
including residency, for example, the ``low-income'' community, or the
``religious'' community, or the ``professional'' community. The
individual members of these ``communities'' may or may not reside in a
specific neighborhood, county, or school district but the local service
provider may be implementing programs and strategies that will have a
measurable affect on them. Community in this context is viewed within
the framework of both community conditions and systems, i.e., (1)
Public policies, formal written and unstated norms adhered to by the
general population; (2) service and support systems, economic
opportunity in the labor market, and capital stakeholders; (3) civic
participation; and (4) an equity as it relates to the economic and
social distribution of power.
Community Services Network (CSN) refers to the various
organizations involved in planning and implementing programs funded
through the Community Services Block Grant or providing training,
technical assistance or support to them. The network includes local
Community Action Agencies and other eligible entities; State CSBG
offices and their national association; CAA State, regional and
national associations; and related organizations which collaborate and
participate with Community Action Agencies and other eligible entities
in their efforts on behalf of low-income people.
Eligible applicants described in this announcement shall be
eligible entities, organizations, (including faith-based) or
associations with demonstrated expertise in providing training to
individuals and organizations on methods of effectively addressing the
needs of low-income families and communities. See description of
Eligible Entities below.
Eligible entity means any organization that was officially
designated as a Community Action Agency (CAA) or a community action
program under Section 673(1) of the Community Services Block Grant Act,
as amended by the Human Services Amendments of 1994 (Pub. L. 103-252),
and meets all the requirements under Sections 673(1)(A)(I), and 676A of
the CSBG Act, as amended by the COATES Human Services Reauthorization
Act of 1998. All eligible entities are current recipients of Community
Services Block Grant funds, including migrant and seasonal farm worker
organizations that received CSBG funding in the previous fiscal year.
Local service providers are local public or private non-profit
agencies that receive Community Services Block Grant funds from States
to provide services to, or undertake activities on behalf of, low-
income people.
Nationwide refers to the scope of the technical assistance,
training, data collection, or other capacity-building projects to be
undertaken with grant funds. Nationwide projects must provide for the
implementation of technical assistance, training or data collection for
all or a significant number of States, and the local service providers
who administer CSBG funds.
Non-profit Organization refers to an organization, including faith-
based, which has ``demonstrated experience in providing training to
individuals and organizations on methods of effectively addressing the
needs of low-income families and communities.'' Acceptable
documentation for eligible non-profit status is limited to: (1) A copy
of a current, valid Internal Revenue service tax exemption certificate;
(2) a copy of the applicant organization's listing in the Internal
Revenue Service's most recent list of tax-exempt organizations
described in Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS code; and/or (3) Articles of
incorporation bearing the seal of the State in which the corporation or
association is domiciled.
Outcome Measures are definable changes in the status or condition
of individuals, families, organizations, or communities as a result of
program services, activities, or collaborations.
Performance Measurement is a tool used to objectively assess how a
program is accomplishing its mission through the delivery of products,
services, and activities.
Program technology exchange refers to the process of sharing expert
technical and programmatic information, models, strategies and
approaches among the various partners in the Community Services
Network. This may be done through written case studies, guides,
seminars, technical assistance, and other mechanisms.
Regional Networks refers to CAA State Associations within a region.
Results-Oriented Management and Accountability (ROMA) System: ROMA
is a system, which provides a framework for focusing on results for
local agencies funded by the Community Services Block Grant Program. It
involves setting goals and strategies and developing plans and
techniques that focus on a result-oriented performance-based model for
management.
State means all of the 50 States and the District of Columbia.
Except where specifically noted, for purposes of this program
announcement, it also includes specified Territories.
State CSBG Lead Agency (SCLA) is the lead agency designated by the
Governor of the State to develop the State CSBG application and to
administer the CSBG Program.
Statewide refers to training and technical assistance activities
and other capacity-building activities undertaken with grant funds that
will have significant impact, i.e., activities should impact at least
50 percent of the eligible entities in a State.
Technical assistance is an activity, generally utilizing the
services of an expert (often a peer), aimed at enhancing capacity,
improving programs and systems, or solving specific problems. Such
services may be provided proactively to improve systems or as an
intervention to solve specific problems.
Territories refers to the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and American
Samoa for the purpose of this announcement.
Training is an educational activity or event which is designed to
impart knowledge, understanding, or increase the development of skills.
Such training activities may be in the form of assembled events such as
workshops, seminars, conferences, or programs of self-instructional
activities.
Priority Area
Community Action Goal 1--``Low Income People Become More Self-
Sufficient''
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Other Asset Formation
Opportunities.
Program Purpose, Scope and Focus
OCS is committed to promoting and funding projects that use asset
formation financial strategies to increase disposable earned income in
low-income households and to help direct the use of that income toward
asset formation. We view such strategies as viable innovative
approaches to empowering low-income individuals, and families to become
more self-sufficient and self-reliant. As part of an OCS initiative, we
are forming partnerships and encouraging the creation or strengthening
of partnerships aimed at increasing financial education literacy and
asset formation for low wage earning households.
The EITC is a refundable federal tax credit designed to encourage
employment in low-income families and to offset the effects of Medicare
and Social Security payroll taxes on working-poor families. The EITC is
widely viewed as a key support in welfare-to-work and asset-building
strategies. EITC is regarded not only as an income supplement to meet
immediate expenses, but also as a resource that might be directed
toward asset-building strategies. Low-income families can be assisted
to use the credit to accrue wealth, achieve economic self-sufficiency,
and break the cycle of poverty.
Up to 30 percent of low-income families do not have a checking or
savings account with a financial institution, have poor financial
management skills and/or credit record, and need assistance with asset-
building strategies; therefore, finding a way to link the EITC to
affordable banking services, financial literacy, and savings and asset-
building options is critical. According to recent studies by the
Government Accounting Office, a substantial number of eligible
individuals and families fail to claim the EITC. OCS seeks to narrow
the gap between eligible households entitled to, but not receiving,
this benefit. OCS also seeks to expand the use of the credit as an
asset-building resource.
OCS seeks to fund formal collaboration projects that use the EITC
to create or expand asset formation and financial literacy services
offered by eligible entities funded under the Community Services Block
Grant (CSBG) Program. Funds will be awarded to provide capacity-
building assistance that enables local, State or regional CSBG networks
to plan, establish, improve or expand the use of EITC outreach and free
tax preparation services to provide asset formation and financial
service opportunities for eligible individuals and families. These
projects should be designed to include EITC outreach, free tax
preparation services and financial literacy/asset formation strategies
to enable low-income families and individuals to make wiser financial
decisions, build financial resources and help eligible clients take
advantage of asset formation opportunities, that ultimately help the
community thrive and become more economically stable.
Formal State CSBG Lead Agencies and State CAA Association
partnerships are especially encouraged and will receive priority
consideration for funding. OCS realizes that CSBG service providers
will be most effective in helping low-income individuals and families
increase assets and financial literacy when they partner with others in
the community. Therefore, applications that show collaborations with
other community-based organizations and institutions are also strongly
encouraged.
Funds will be awarded to provide capacity-building assistance that
enables local and regional CSBG networks to plan, establish, improve or
expand asset formation and financial service opportunities for eligible
individuals and families. These projects should be designed to help
low-wage earners, at or near the poverty level, become more astute in
areas such as money management and other financial services. The
projects must offer, or plan to offer, services that help eligible
clients take advantage of asset formation opportunities, increase their
disposable income, build financial resources and enable them to make
wiser financial decisions that ultimately help the community thrive and
become more economically stable.
At a minimum, all projects funded under this area must demonstrate
proof that they have managed and operated an established Earned Income
Tax Credit (EITC) component. Successful applicants for these seven (7)
grants must also have a history of providing Earned Income Tax Credit
and other asset formation services and training within the Community
Services Network. Their curriculum must demonstrate an understanding of
asset formation and financial literacy. Applicants must describe in
their applications how their proposed training curriculum will improve
or expand the access of eligible low-income families and individuals to
asset formation information and services. Therefore, projects should
include outreach to eligible families, information to help individuals
and families understand the EITC and free tax filing assistance to
claim the EITC and other tax credits.
Successful applicants for these grants must have a plan for
providing EITC outreach, free tax preparation, and other financial and
asset formation services and training within the Community Services
Network. Their curriculum must demonstrate an understanding of asset
formation and financial literacy. At a minimum, all projects funded in
this area must present proof that within the collaborative there exists
a partner with demonstrated experience in the delivery of EITC outreach
and free tax preparation services, and should include a description
(letters of agreement or memoranda of understanding) of the nature of
the existing or proposed working relationship with the local Internal
Revenue Service territory office. Applicants must also describe in
their applications how their proposed plan and training curriculum will
improve or expand the access of eligible low-income families and
individuals to tax preparation and asset formation information and
services beyond the scope of the current offerings of that or other
partners so engaged, as well as identifying constituencies who have
been underserved with these programs.
OCS recognizes that local, State and regional CSBG networks are in
various stages with respect to offering asset formation and financial
literacy services. Therefore, we plan to fund applications from
applicants that are in the initial planning and development stages of
asset formation services as well as applications from applicants whose
CSBG network has established asset formation services, but desire to do
more.
Successful applicants will propose projects that will impact more
than one local CSBG service area. This Sub-Priority Area is not
appropriate for projects proposing stand-alone services that impact and
target only one particular community. Formal State CSBG Lead Agencies
and State CAA Association partnerships and Community Service Network
collaborations that address the needs of rural communities are
especially encouraged to apply for these funds and will receive
priority consideration for funding.
The application must clearly show the roles and responsibilities of
each collaborating partner. Letters of agreement and memoranda of
understanding on agency letterhead with signatures from persons
authorized to act on behalf of the collaborating partner(s) must be
included in the application.
Innovation is encouraged. However, the following are examples of
asset formation and financial literacy activities that OSC seeks to
expand:
. Help eligible individuals and families apply for and
receive, the Federal and State, where appropriate, Earned Income Tax
Credits and other cash benefits or services to which they are entitled.
. Ensure that staff and volunteers of local CSBG funded
organizations and/or their partners are trained and certified to
provide free tax preparation services.
. Recruit, support, and retain qualified volunteers
committed to the goals of the initiative.
. Conduct outreach to EITC eligible individuals and
families.
. Provide life skills education that helps low-income
individuals and families learn and apply effective household management
and budgeting techniques.
. Help clients establish and use banking and financial
services, such as checking and savings accounts, thereby reducing or
eliminating their reliance on the high-fee, high interest check cashing
and loan services that are prevalent and widely used in low-income
neighborhoods.
. Present materials in different languages based on the
needs of eligible households.
. Assist families and individuals to boost savings in
Individual Development Accounts (IDAs) and/or to participate in other
asset-building opportunities such as pre and post purchase housing
support, 529 college savings plans, and other asset tools.
II. Award Information
Funding Instrument Type: Grant.
Anticipated Total Priority Area Funding: $500,000 in FY 2004.
Anticipated Number of Awards: Seven (7).
Ceiling on Amount of Individual Awards: $80,000 per budget period.
An application that exceeds the upper value of the dollar range
specified will be considered ``non-responsive'' and be returned to the
applicant without further review.
Floor on Amount of Individual Awards: none.
Average Projected Award Amount: $70,000 per budget period.
Project Periods for Award: This announcement is inviting
applications for project periods of up to three years. Awards, offered
on a competitive basis, will be for a one-year budget period, although
projects may be for three years. Applications for continuation grants
beyond the one-year budget period, but within the three-year project
period, will be entertained in subsequent years on a noncompetitive
basis, subject to availability of funds, satisfactory progress of the
grantee, and a determination that continued funding would be in the
best interest of the Federal Government.
An application that exceeds the upper value of the dollar range
specified will be considered ``non-responsive'' and be returned to the
applicant without further review.
III. Eligibility Information
1. Eligible Applicants
Community Services Block Grant eligible entities, State Community
Action Associations, non-profit organizations having 501(c)3 status,
and non-profits that do not have 501(c)3 status. Faith-based
organizations are eligible to apply.
Additional Information on Eligibility: As prescribed by the
Community Services Block Grant Act (Pub. L. 105-285, Section
678A(c)(2), eligible applicants are eligible entities (see
definitions), or statewide or local organizations, or associations with
demonstrated expertise in providing training to individuals and
organizations on methods of effectively addressing the needs of low-
income families and communities.
Any non-profit organization submitting an application must submit
proof of its non-profit status in its application at the time of
submission. The non-profit agency can accomplish this by providing a
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 earnings 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; or any of
the items referenced 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'' titled ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant Applicants''
at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
2. Cost Sharing or Matching
None.
3. Other
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.
An application that exceeds the upper value of the dollar range
specified will be considered ``non-responsive'' and be returned to the
applicant without further review.
IV. Application and Submission Information
1. Address To Request Application Package
Office of Community Services Operations Center, 1815 Fort Myer
Drive, Suite 300, Arlington, VA 22209, Attn: Dr. Margaret Washnitzer,
Telephone: (800) 281-9519.
2. Content and Form of Application Submission
An original and two copies of the complete application are
required. The original and the two copies must include all required
forms, certifications, assurances, and appendices, be signed by an
authorized representative of the applicant organization, have original
signatures, and be submitted unbound. 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
and Social Security Numbers. The copies may include summary salary
information.
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.
. 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 Standard Form 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 Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance
(CFDA) number.
Application Content
Each application must include the following components:
(a) Table of Contents
(b) Abstract of the Proposed Project--very brief, not to exceed 250
words, that would be suitable for use in an announcement that the
application has been selected for a grant award and which identifies
the type of project, the target population, and the major elements of
the work plan.
(c) Completed Standard Form 424--that has been signed by an
official of the organization applying for the grant who has authority
to obligate the organization legally.
(d) Standard Form 424A--Budget Information-Non-Construction
Programs.
(e) Narrative Budget Justification--for each object class category
required under Section B, Standard Form 424A.
(f) Project Narrative--A narrative that addresses issues described
in the ``Application Review Information'' and the ``Review and
Selection Criteria'' sections of this announcement.
Application Format
Each application should include one signed original application and
two additional copies of the same application.
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 35 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 non-construction
projects must file the Standard Form 424B, ``Assurances: Non-
Construction Programs.'' Applicants must sign and return the Standard
Form 424B with their applications.
Applicants must provide a certification regarding lobbying when
applying for an award in excess of $100,000. Applicants must sign and
return the certification with their applications.
Applicants must disclose lobbying activities on the Standard Form
LLL when applying for an award in excess of $100,000. Applicants who
have used non-Federal funds for lobbying activities in connection with
receiving assistance under this announcement shall complete a
disclosure form to report lobbying. Applicants must sign and return the
disclosure form, if applicable, with their applications.
Additional Requirements
(a) The application must contain a signed Standard Form 424,
Application for Federal Assistance, a Standard Form 424A, Budget
Information, and signed Standard Form 424B, Assurance--Non-Construction
Programs, completed according to instructions provided in this Program
Announcement. Forms SF-424 and 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);
(b) The application must include a project narrative that meets the
requirements set forth in this announcement;
(c) The application must contain documentation of the applicant's
tax-exempt status as indicated in the ``Funding Opportunity
Description'' section of this announcement;
Private, non-profit 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.''
The forms are located on the web at
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
Project Summary Abstract: Provide a one page (or less) summary of
the project description with reference to the funding request.
Full Project Description Requirements: Describe the project clearly
in 35 pages or less (not counting supplemental documentation, letters
of support or agreements) using the following outline and guidelines.
Applicants are required to submit a Full Project Description and must
prepare the project description statement in accordance with the
following instructions. The pages of the project description must be
numbered and are limited to 35 typed pages starting on page 1 with the
``Objectives and Need for Assistance''. The description must be double-
spaced, printed on only one side, with at least one inch margins. Pages
over the 35 page limit will be removed from the competition and will
not be reviewed.
It is in the applicant's best interest to ensure that the project
description is easy to read, logically developed in accordance with the
evaluation criteria, and adheres to the page limitation. In addition,
applicants should be mindful of the importance of preparing and
submitting applications using language, terms, concepts and
descriptions that are generally known by the Community Services Block
Grant (CSBG) network.
The maximum number of pages for supplemental documentation is 10
pages. The supplemental documentation, subject to the 10-page limit,
must be numbered and might include brief resumes, position
descriptions, proof of non-profit status, news clippings, press
releases, etc. Supplemental documentation over the 10-page limit will
not be reviewed.
Applicants must include letters of support or agreement, if
appropriate or applicable, in reference to the project description.
Letters of support are not counted as part of the 35-page project
description limit or the 10-page supplemental documentation limit. All
applications must comply with the following requirements as noted:
3. Submission Date and Time
The closing time and date for receipt of applications is 4:30 p.m.
eastern time (e.t.) on September 9, 2004. 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 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,
Administration for Children and Families, Office of Community Services
Operations Center, 1815 North Fort Myer Drive, Suite 300, Arlington, VA
22209, Attention: Barbara Ziegler Johnson. 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 4:30 p.m., eastern time (e.t.), at the U.S. Department of Health
and Human Services (HHS), Administration for Children and Families,
Office of Community Services Operations Center, 1815 North Fort Myer
Drive, Suite 300, Arlington, VA 22209, between Monday and Friday
(excluding Federal holidays). This address must appear on the envelope/
package containing the application with the note: ``Attention: Barbara
Ziegler Johnson.'' 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.
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. Determinations
to extend or waive deadline requirements rest with the Chief Grants
Management Officer.
ACF will not send acknowledgements of receipt of application
materials.
Required Forms:
| What to submit | Required Content | Required Form or Format | When to Submit |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1. Table of Contents. |
As described above. | Consistent with guidance in ``Application Format'' section of this announcement. | By application due date. |
|
2. Abstract of Proposed Project. |
Brief abstract that identifies the type of project, the target population, and the major elements of the proposed project. | Consistent with guidance in ``Application Format'' section of this announcement. | By application due date. |
|
3. Completed Standard Form 424. |
As described above and per required form. |
May be found on http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm | By application due date. |
|
4. Completed Standard Form 424A. |
As described above and per required form. | May be found at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm | By application due date. |
|
5. Narrative Budget Justification. |
As described above. | Consistent with guidance in ``Application Format'' section of this announcement. | By application due date. |
|
6. Project Narrative. |
A narrative that addresses issues described in the ``Application Review Information'' and the ``Review and Selection Criteria'' sections of this announcement. | Consistent with guidance in ``Application Format'' section of this announcement. | By application due date. |
|
7. Certification regarding lobbying. |
As described above and per required form. | May be found at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm | By application due date. |
|
8. Certification regarding environmental tobacco smoke. |
As described above and per required form. | May be found at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm | By application due date. |
Additional Forms:
Private, non-profit 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.''
| What to submit | Required content | Required form or format | When to submit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant Applicants. | Per required form. | May be found at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm. | By application due date. |
4. Intergovernmental Review
State Single Point of Contact (SPOC)
This program is covered under Executive Order (E.O.) 12372,
``Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs,'' and 45 CFR Part 100,
``Intergovernmental Review of Department of Health and Human Services
Programs and Activities.'' Under the Order, States may design their own
processes for reviewing and commenting on proposed Federal assistance
under covered programs. As of October 2003, of the most recent SPOC
list, the following jurisdictions have elected not to participate in
the Executive Order process. Applicants from these jurisdictions or for
projects administered by federally-recognized Indian Tribes need take
no action in regard to E.O. 12372: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Colorado,
Connecticut, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts,
Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma,
Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia,
Washington, Wyoming and Palau.
Although the jurisdictions listed above no longer participate in
the process, entities which have met the eligibility requirements of
the program are still eligible to apply for a grant even if a State,
Territory, Commonwealth, etc. does not have a SPOC. All remaining
jurisdictions participate in the Executive Order process and have
established SPOCs. Applicants from participating jurisdictions should
contact their SPOCs as soon as possible to alert them of the
prospective applications and receive instructions. Applicants must
submit any required material to the SPOCs as soon as possible so that
the program office can obtain and review SPOC comments as part of the
award process. The applicant must submit all required materials, if
any, to the SPOC and indicate the date of this submittal (or the date
of contact if no submittal is required) on the Standard Form 424, item
16a. Under 45 CFR 100.8(a)(2), a SPOC has 60 days from the application
deadline to comment on proposed new or competing continuation awards.
SPOCs are encouraged to eliminate the submission of routine
endorsements as official recommendations. Additionally, SPOCs are
requested to 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, Division of Discretionary Grants, 370
L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Mail Stop 6C-462, Washington, DC 20447.
A list of the Single Points of Contact for each State and Territory
is included with the application materials for this announcement.
5. Funding Restrictions
Sub-Contracting or Delegating Projects
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 that are needed to conduct the
project.
Number of Projects in Application
Each application may include only one proposed project.
6. Other Submission Requirements
Submission by Mail: An applicant must provide an original
application with all attachments, signed by an authorized
representative and two complete copies. The application must be
received at the address below by 4:30 p.m. eastern time (e.t.) on or
before September 9, 2004. Applications should be mailed to: U.S.
Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Administration for
Children and Families, Office of Community Services Operations Center,
1815 North Fort Myer Drive, Suite 300, Arlington, VA 22209, Attn:
Barbara Ziegler Johnson.
For Hand Delivery: Applicants must provide an original application
with all attachments, signed by an authorized representative and two
complete 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., Monday through Friday. Applications may be delivered to:
Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Administration for
Children and Families, Office of Community Services Operations Center,
1815 North Fort Myer Drive, Suite 300, Arlington, VA 22209 Attention:
Barbara Ziegler Johnson. It is strongly recommended that applicants
obtain documentation that the application was hand delivered on or
before the closing date. Applicants are cautioned that express/
overnight mail services do not always deliver as agreed.
V. Application Review Information
1. Criteria
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 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 current
valid OMB number.
Instructions: ACF Uniform Project Description (UPD)
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). The generic UPD requirement
is followed by the evaluation criterion specific to the Community
Services Block Grant legislation.
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. 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 information included in the application is clear and
complete.
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. For example,
describe the population to be served by the program and the number of
new jobs that will be targeted to the target population. Explain how
the project will reach the targeted population and how it will benefit
participants, including, how it will support individuals to become more
economically self-sufficient.
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 which 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. Account for all functions or activities identified in the
application, such as, free tax preparation, financial literacy
training, and asset-building activities. 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.
Evaluation
Provide a narrative addressing how the conduct of the project and
the results of the project will be evaluated. In addressing the
evaluation of results, state how you will determine the extent to which
the project has achieved its stated objectives and the extent to which
the accomplishment of objectives can be attributed to the project.
Discuss the criteria to be used to evaluate results, and explain the
methodology that will be used to determine if the needs identified and
discussed are being met and if the project results and benefits are
being achieved. With respect to the conduct of the project, define the
procedures to be employed to determine whether the project is being
conducted in a manner consistent with the work plan presented and
discuss the impact of the project's various activities on the project's
effectiveness.
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.
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.
2. Evaluation Criteria
Evaluation Criterion I: Approach (Maximum: 40 points)
Factors: (1) The work program is results-oriented, approximately
related to the legislative mandate and specifically related to the
priority area under which funds are being requested. The application
addresses the following: specific outcomes to be achieved; discussion
of how the project will verify the achievement of these targets and
the data collection methodology to be used; the way that tax
preparation training will be accomplished; individuals, families and
households served; proposed linkage and outcomes to asset-building
activities; critical milestones which must be achieved if results are
to be gained; organizational support, the level of support from the
applicant organization; past performance in similar work; and specific
resources contributed to the project that are critical to success.
(2) The applicant defines the comprehensive nature of the project
and methods that will be used to ensure that the results can be used to
address a statewide or nationwide project as defined by the description
of the particular priority area.
Evaluation Criterion II: Organizational Profiles (Maximum: 20 points)
Factors: (1) The applicant demonstrates that it has experience and
a successful record of accomplishment relevant to the specific
activities it proposes to accomplish.
(2) If the applicant proposes to provide training and technical
assistance, it details its abilities to provide those services on a
community services network-wide basis. If applicable, information
provided by the applicant also addresses related achievements and
competence of each cooperating or sponsoring organization.
(3) The application fully describes, for example in a resume, the
experience and skills of the proposed project director and primary
staff showing specific qualifications and professional experiences
relevant to the successful implementation of the proposed project.
(4) The applicant describes how it will involve partners in the
Community Services Network , the Internal Revenue Service, and other
asset-building projects including the Assets for Independence Act
(AFIA) grantees in its activities. Where appropriate, applicant
describes how it will interface with other related organizations.
(5) The application describes how the needs of rural communities
and small towns will be addressed.
(6) If sub-contracts are proposed, the application documents the
willingness and capacity of the subcontracting organization(s) to
participate as described.
Evaluation Criterion III: Objectives and Need for Assistance (Maximum:
20 points)
Factors: (1) The applicant documents that the proposed project
addresses vital needs related to the program purposes and provides
statistics and other data and information in support of its contention.
(2) The application provides current supporting documentation or
other testimonies regarding needs from State CSBG Directors, CAAs and
local service providers and/or State and Regional organizations of CAAs
and other local service providers, including the Internal Revenue
Service.
Evaluation Criterion IV: Results or Benefits Expected (Maximum: 15
points)
Factors: (1) The application describes how the project will assure
long-term program and management improvements for State CSBG offices,
CAA State and/or regional associations, CAAs and/or other local
providers of CSBG services and activities.
(2) The applicant indicates the types and amounts of public and/or
private resources it will mobilize, how those resources will directly
benefit the project, and how the project will ultimately benefit low-
income individuals and families.
(3) If the application proposes a project with a training and
technical assistance focus, the application indicates the number of
organizations and/or staff that will benefit from those services.
(4) The application describes a project with data collection focus,
the application describes the mechanism to be used to collect data
about EITC outreach, returns prepared, total EITC claimed, the number
of individuals and families engaged in financial literacy and/or asset
formation strategies and, how the applicant can assure collections from
a significant number of State partners, and the number of State
partners willing to submit data to the applicant.
(5) If the applicant proposes to develop a symposium series or
other policy-related project(s), the application identifies the number
and types of beneficiaries.
(6) The application describes methods of securing participant
feedback and evaluations of activities.
Criterion V: Budget and Budget Justification (Maximum: 5 points)
Factors: (1) The resources requested are reasonable and adequate to
accomplish the project.
(2) Total costs are reasonable and consistent with anticipated
results.
3. Review and Selection Process
Initial OCS Screening
Each application submitted to 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. Only
complete applications that meet the requirements listed below will be
reviewed and evaluated competitively. Other applications will be
returned to the applicants with a notation that they were unacceptable
and will not be reviewed.
All applications must comply with the following requirements except
as noted:
OCS Evaluation of Applications
Applications that pass the initial 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 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.
Copies to Non-Federal Reviewers
Applicants are encouraged to use job titles and not specific names
in developing the application budget. However, the specific salary
rates or amounts for staff positions identified must be included in the
application budget.
The 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 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 OCS goals and policy; geographic
distribution of applications; previous program performance of
applicants; compliance with grant terms under previous HHS grants,
including the actual dedication to program of mobilized resources as
set forth in project applications; audit reports; investigative
reports; and applicant's progress in resolving any final audit
disallowance on previous OCS or other Federal agency grants.
Approved But Unfunded Applications: In cases where more
applications are approved for funding than ACF can fund with the money
available, the Grants Officer shall fund applications in their order of
approval until funds run out. In this case, ACF has the option of
carrying over the approved applications up to a year for funding
consideration in a later competition of the same program. These
applications need not be reviewed and scored again if the program's
evaluation criteria have not changed. However, they must then be placed
in rank order along with other applications in the later competition.
VI. Award Administration Information
1. Award Notices
Following approval of the application selected for funding, ACF
will mail a written notice of project approval and authority to draw
down project funds. The official award document is the Financial
Assistance Award that specifies the amount of Federal funds approved
for use in the project, the project and budget period for which support
is provided and the terms and conditions of the award. The Financial
Assistance Award is signed and issued via postal mail by an authorized
Grants Officer.
ACF will notify unsuccessful applicants after the award is issued
to the successful applicant.
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).
3. Reporting
All grantees are required to submit semi-annual program reports and
semi-annual expenditure reports (SF-269) with final reports due 90 days
after the project end date. A suggested format for the program report
will be sent to all grantees after the awards are made.
VII. Agency Contacts
Program Office Contact: Dr. Margaret Washnitzer, Department of
Health and Human Services (HHS), Administration for Children and
Families, Office of Community Services Operations Center, 1815 Fort
Myer Drive, Suite 300, Arlington, VA 22209, E-Mail: OCS@lcgnet.com,
Phone: 1-800-281-9519.
Grants Management Office Contact: Barbara Ziegler Johnson, Team
Leader, Office of Grants Management, Division of Discretionary Grants,
Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Administration for
Children and Families, Office of Community Services Operations Center,
1815 Fort Myer Drive, Suite 300, Arlington, VA 22209, E-Mail:
OCS@lcgnet.com, Phone: 1-800-281-9519.
VIII. Other Information
Additional information about this program and its purpose can be
located on the following Web site: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ocs.
Dated: August 4, 2004.
Clarence H. Carter,
Director, Office of Community Services.
[FR Doc. 04-18289 Filed 8-9-04; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4184-01-P
