The Idaho Children’s Trust Fund (ICTF) Annual Grants Program is dedicated to funding efforts aimed at the prevention of child abuse and neglect within the state of Idaho. Established by the Idaho Legislature in 1985, the ICTF supports community-based organizations through funding, education, and technical assistance. The organization prioritizes building strong relationships with grantees to ensure cohesive, impactful prevention strategies are implemented. This funding initiative is part of a coordinated movement focused on increasing protective factors that help families thrive and reduce the likelihood of child abuse and neglect.

ICTF provides grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 for programs that focus on strengthening families by increasing protective factors. These grants are intended for public or private nonprofit organizations, faith-based groups, government agencies, and qualified individuals that provide educational or service programs aimed at reducing child abuse and neglect. Priority is given to programs that serve underserved populations such as rural communities, homeless families, and communities of color. ICTF places particular emphasis on projects that intentionally address the complex issue of child neglect, especially in relation to trauma, poverty, maternal depression, and substance abuse.

Funded projects must be designed using evidence-based or best practice methods and align with the Strengthening Families framework. Programs should address specific community needs, use logic models to articulate strategies and outcomes, and demonstrate administrative capacity to manage the grant, including timely reimbursement submissions and data reporting. Programs must also be able to use the Protective Factor Survey (PFS2) when appropriate to measure changes in family resilience and support structures. Direct treatment services are not eligible for funding due to statutory limitations.

Applicants must have a valid Employer Identification Number (EIN), commercial general liability and workers' compensation insurance, and a registered Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). The evaluation process includes scoring by the ICTF Grants Manager and board members, with consideration given to geographic distribution to ensure equal opportunity across all regions of Idaho. Training and collaboration with ICTF are essential elements of the grant, with new grantee training scheduled shortly after project commencement.

The application timeline for the 2025–2026 cycle begins with the release of the grant packet on October 2, 2024. Completed applications are due by November 15, 2024, with award decisions announced in January 2025. Projects will start on April 3, 2025, and conclude on March 31, 2026. All funds must be spent by May 16, 2026. Grants are not issued on a rolling basis but do recur annually, with the next cycle expected to begin in April 2026.

Programs are encouraged to clearly outline their target population, specific needs, services provided, and measurable outcomes. The use of standardized tools like the PFS2, attendance rosters, or parenting inventories is recommended to track effectiveness. ICTF’s mission aligns with national efforts such as those led by Prevent Child Abuse America, emphasizing the importance of proactive, community-centered solutions to protect children across Idaho.