The State of Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) is offering a Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Grant aimed at reducing the incidence of sexual assault and ensuring that survivors have access to comprehensive support services. This funding opportunity supports a statewide network of community-based rape crisis centers that provide prevention education, direct crisis intervention, advocacy, counseling, and medical care. The awarded entity will serve as the prime contractor responsible for sub-awarding program funds to local rape crisis centers across Illinois.

The total program funding is $21,200,000, with an anticipated single award for the full amount. The grant period is expected to run from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, subject to appropriation. The grantee will be responsible for distributing funds to subcontractors, ensuring compliance with reporting and performance requirements, and providing oversight for program implementation. Eligible applicants must be not-for-profit agencies with experience in sexual assault services and managing a statewide system. Applicants must have an established network of rape crisis centers and a history of sexual assault service provision.

Eligible expenses for this grant include crisis intervention through a 24-hour sexual assault hotline, advocacy support during medical examinations and court proceedings, individual and group counseling, community education, training for professionals, and referral services. Applicants must be prequalified and registered in SAM.gov and meet the Illinois GATA (Grant Accountability and Transparency Act) prequalification requirements.

The application window opens on March 6, 2025, and closes on April 7, 2025, at 5:00 PM CST. Applications must be submitted electronically via DHS.DVSAHT@illinois.gov with all required documentation, including a detailed program narrative, budget, subcontractor information, and an executive summary. Award announcements are expected by July 1, 2025.

For further inquiries, Erica Koegler can be contacted via email at DHS.DVSAHT@illinois.gov or by phone at (217) 836-1020.