The State of Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) is offering a grant opportunity titled "230 Outpatient Fitness Restoration." This funding aims to support outpatient programs that assist individuals deemed unfit to stand trial by providing fitness restoration services in community-based settings. The program seeks to reduce the number of individuals requiring inpatient services and ensure timely competency restoration, ultimately improving the efficiency of the criminal justice and mental health systems.

The funding opportunity is administered by the Illinois DHS Division of Mental Health. The total program funding available for this opportunity is $1,528,268, with an anticipated distribution of 16 awards. Award amounts range from $17,500 to $350,000. The grant is funded through state resources, and there are no cost-sharing or matching fund requirements for applicants. Indirect costs are allowed with no restrictions.

Eligible applicants for this grant include entities that provide community-based mental health services, legal competency restoration programs, or related support services. Applicants must demonstrate the ability to deliver outpatient fitness restoration services within Illinois. Detailed eligibility criteria, including organizational and operational requirements, are provided in the application materials.

The application period for this funding opportunity runs from March 11, 2025, to April 9, 2025, with a submission deadline at 12:00 PM CST on April 9, 2025. A technical assistance session is available for prospective applicants on March 21, 2025, at 9:00 AM. While this session is optional, it is recommended for those unfamiliar with the grant process. A registration link is provided in the official grant documentation.

Applications must be submitted through the Illinois DHS grant application portal. The grant opportunity includes specific evaluation criteria related to program effectiveness, organizational capacity, and alignment with the state's goals for fitness restoration. Applicants are encouraged to review the full funding announcement to ensure compliance with all requirements.

For further details or inquiries, applicants can contact Barb Roberson at DHS.DMHGrantApp@illinois.gov. More information, including the grant application and submission details, can be accessed via the Illinois DHS website.