The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), through its Family and Community Services—Office of Housing Stability, is offering the FY2026 Supportive Housing Program grant opportunity. This competitive grant seeks to provide supportive housing services to individuals and families who are formerly homeless, at risk of homelessness, or living with chronic disabilities. The program aligns with Illinois’ Coordinated Plan to Prevent and End Homelessness and aims to promote housing stability and reduce the demand on emergency and institutional services across the state.

Grants will range from $20,000 to $1,500,000, with approximately 80 to 120 awards anticipated, totaling around $25 million in funding. Previous awards have averaged $225,679. This grant is funded through the State General Revenue Fund and the Health and Human Services Medicaid Trust Fund. The grant period begins no sooner than July 1, 2025, and ends on June 30, 2026. Pre-award costs are allowed with prior Department approval. The program allows for up to two one-year renewal periods based on performance and appropriations. A 25% cost share is required, with at least half of that (12.5%) provided as a cash match.

Eligible applicants include governmental units, community-based organizations, not-for-profit entities, and supportive housing developers. Applicants must provide at least one permanent or transitional supportive housing option and demonstrate capacity through prior project experience, qualified staff, and successful performance in previous grants if applicable. All recipients are required to offer case management, advocacy, counseling, and referrals to mainstream benefits. Housing options may include Single Room Occupancy (SRO), family housing developments, and transitional facilities with a 24-month maximum occupancy.

The full application, including a completed budget submitted via the CSA system, must be emailed to DHS.HomelessServices@illinois.gov by April 24, 2025, at 5:00 PM CST. Required application components include the Uniform Application for State Grant Assistance, Conflict of Interest Disclosure, Narrative (Attachment A), budget narrative, and project-specific documentation. Technical assistance will be provided via a webinar on April 2, 2025, at 11:00 AM.

Applications will be evaluated based on the proposal’s quality, alignment with IDHS goals, budget justification, agency capacity, and service need. A preference of up to two bonus points will be given to proposals involving housing developments with Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) commitments. Risk and compliance reviews will influence award decisions. Notices of State Award (NOSA) are expected by June 15, 2025, with formal agreements executed following budget approval. Quarterly and annual programmatic and financial reporting is required for all funded projects.

For questions, applicants may contact Charlotte Flickinger at charlotte.d.flickinger@illinois.gov or 630-222-0636. Additional details and forms are available via the IDHS Grant Program Portal.