The Ohio Department of Children and Youth (DCY) has released a Request for Grant Applications (RFGA) to support a pilot program titled “Therapeutic Child Care Partnerships.” This funding opportunity is supported by the Preschool Development Grant (PDG) and is administered by DCY as part of its efforts to enhance the developmental outcomes and behavioral health support of school-age children. The goal is to promote integration between behavioral health services and educational support plans, particularly for children who need additional services.

This program seeks to fund non-profit organizations that partner with local programs serving school-age children in need of behavioral health support or coordination through existing service plans such as an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). The IEP and IFSP are legal documents in Ohio that guide the delivery of services to children with disabilities and special needs. The program encourages collaboration between child care providers and behavioral health systems to support children who face unique developmental and emotional challenges.

The application window for this funding opportunity opens on March 24, 2025, and closes on May 8, 2025. Funded projects are expected to begin on July 1, 2025, and conclude by June 30, 2026. This is a state-level opportunity with funding provided directly by Ohio's Department of Children and Youth. No cost-sharing or matching funds are required to apply.

Eligible applicants include a range of community-based and health organizations such as ADAMH Boards, Behavioral Health Providers, Certified Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Agency Providers, Child Care Programs, Children's Advocacy Centers, Faith-based Associations or Organizations, and Trauma Recovery Centers. Applications must be submitted by organizations operating within the state of Ohio and should demonstrate a partnership with programs that serve school-age children requiring support services.

Application materials, including the RFGA document, a line-item budget form, and instructions, are available as downloadable attachments on the Ohio Grants Partnership website. All inquiries related to this funding opportunity should be directed to Procurement_Inquiries@childrenandyouth.ohio.gov. Additionally, general support about Ohio's grant process can be obtained through the Ohio Grants Partnership at Grants@OBM.Ohio.Gov.

The funding opportunity is non-renewable under this solicitation and is not listed as recurring. Interested applicants are encouraged to begin preparing proposals early to ensure timely submission by the May 8 deadline.