The Direct Caregiver Flexibility RFA (#20422) is a grant opportunity offered by the New York State Department of Health’s Office of Aging and Long-Term Care (OALTC). It aims to address the growing demand for direct care workers—Personal Care Aides (PCAs), Home Health Aides (HHAs), and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs)—as New York’s aging population increases. The program seeks to strengthen the long-term care workforce by funding training centers and support hubs to offer enhanced training, job flexibility, and career advancement opportunities.

This initiative will allocate up to $19,000,000 annually over five years, with funding available for the establishment of Direct Caregiver Training Centers and the Direct Caregiver Support Hub. The program focuses on ensuring that workers are well-trained and able to transition between care settings and roles efficiently, an issue highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic. The ultimate goal is to make direct care positions more appealing and sustainable.

Eligibility and Application Process
Eligible applicants must be prequalified through the New York State Statewide Financial System (SFS). Applications must be submitted electronically via the SFS platform by January 21, 2025, at 4:00 PM. Each application must be specific to one of the state’s Economic Development Regions, requiring separate submissions for multiple regions. Late submissions, as well as those sent by fax, email, hard copy, or hand delivery, will not be accepted.

Applicants are encouraged to submit written questions about the RFA to Carol Rodat, Special Advisor for the OALTC, via email at DCF.Grant@health.ny.gov. Questions should reference specific sections of the RFA for clarity. The application process includes meeting Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) requirements, as outlined in Section IV.K of the RFA.

Contract Details
The grant term spans from October 1, 2025, to September 30, 2030, and supports statewide programs to bolster direct care services. Projects must demonstrate a capacity to meet training and workforce needs while improving the flexibility and responsiveness of care services in New York.

For additional information, the RFA is available on the New York State Statewide Financial System (SFS) website and the New York State Department of Health’s funding page. For questions and further assistance, applicants can contact Carol Rodat at 518-402-0990 or DCF.Grant@health.ny.gov. This grant represents a significant opportunity to contribute to New York’s long-term care workforce development.