The New Jersey Department of Human Services (DHS), through its Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD), has announced the availability of grant funding to support the development of housing for individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) who are transitioning from nursing facilities or other qualified institutions. This initiative aims to help these individuals move into licensed community-based residential settings, such as group homes, that meet their specific needs. The funding is intended to offset costs related to the acquisition, renovation, and development of these homes, ensuring that they are accessible, safe, and ready for occupancy.

The total funding available for this program is up to $6 million, with a maximum of $240,000 allocated per site. This funding can be used for a range of capital improvements, such as installing fire suppression systems, making accessibility modifications, and covering acquisition or renovation expenses. Non-capital costs may also be covered, including up to $70,000 for an accessible vehicle, up to $3,000 per bed for furnishings, and up to 5% of the operating budget for staff training and development. Importantly, each bed in these homes can be supported with up to $60,000 in funding, ensuring that the homes are well-equipped to meet the needs of individuals transitioning out of institutional care.

Eligible applicants include nonprofit, for-profit, and governmental entities that are licensed by the DHS Office of Program Integrity and Accountability (OOL). To qualify, bidders must meet several specific criteria, such as having no admissions moratoriums or serious regulatory issues in the past three years. Additionally, applicants must be financially viable, have all necessary plans of correction submitted and approved, and not be listed on any debarment reports. For-profit applicants and their subcontractors must have a valid Business Registration Certificate, though this requirement does not apply to nonprofits or governmental agencies.

Proposals must be submitted in accordance with the guidelines set forth in the Request for Proposals (RFP), which will be available starting October 23, 2024, on the DHS website. The application process involves preparing a detailed proposal that aligns with the RFP requirements, and it must be submitted to the Division of Developmental Disabilities by January 29, 2025, no later than 4:00 p.m. ET. Proposals should be sent to Amy Scartocci, the Housing Director at the Division, at the provided address in Trenton, New Jersey.

This grant opportunity is specifically focused on creating sustainable housing options that support the transition of individuals with IDD from institutional settings to integrated community environments. It prioritizes projects that address both physical infrastructure needs and operational supports, including staff training and development, to ensure that these settings provide safe and supportive living arrangements. Interested parties are encouraged to carefully review the RFP and ensure that they meet all eligibility criteria before applying.