The BJA FY25 Smart Reentry: Housing Demonstration Program is a grant opportunity offered by the Bureau of Justice Assistance under the U.S. Department of Justice. This program focuses on enhancing reentry outcomes by addressing housing needs for individuals transitioning from incarceration. It aims to reduce recidivism by expanding access to safe, stable, and affordable housing options, coupled with supportive services. The initiative also seeks to eliminate systemic barriers to housing for formerly incarcerated individuals, ensuring their successful reintegration into communities.

This program supports state, local, and tribal governments, as well as public housing authorities, Native American housing authorities, and other eligible governmental units. Applicants must partner with at least one correctional or community supervision agency, evidenced by a memorandum of understanding or letter of intent. Partnerships with housing and justice system stakeholders are strongly encouraged to build sustainable, cross-sector strategies.

A total of $7 million is available under this funding opportunity, with each project eligible for up to $1 million. Grants have a 36-month performance period starting on October 1, 2025. A 50% cost-sharing or matching contribution from applicants is required. This can include in-kind contributions or cash, and it must comply with federal guidelines. Funds will support activities such as reentry planning, implementation of supportive housing models, and provision of wraparound services addressing mental health, substance use disorders, and employment.

Applicants must submit a two-step application: the SF-424 form through Grants.gov by March 4, 2025, and a full proposal in JustGrants by March 11, 2025. Key elements of the application include a detailed proposal narrative outlining the issue to be addressed, project goals, objectives, design, and implementation strategies. Additionally, applicants must provide a budget detail form, letters of commitment from partners, and a plan for tracking performance measures, including recidivism reduction and housing stability outcomes.

Proposals will be evaluated based on their alignment with program goals, the strength of their project design, evidence of cross-sector collaboration, and the applicant’s capacity to deliver. Priority will be given to applications that demonstrate innovative or evidence-based approaches to reentry housing, focus on reducing policy barriers, and include culturally specific interventions. Applicants are expected to provide baseline data, propose measurable goals, and partner with third-party evaluators for tracking outcomes.

Successful applicants will enter a planning phase upon award, capped at $100,000, before transitioning to full implementation. Post-award reporting requirements include quarterly financial updates, semi-annual performance reports, and a final evaluation report tracking project outcomes. Technical assistance and peer learning opportunities will be provided to grantees to support program success.

Further details, including links to resources and webinars, can be accessed through the official grant documentation and the Bureau of Justice Assistance website.