The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) has issued a funding opportunity titled "COVID-19 Domestic Violence Shelter and Supportive Services" under the funding opportunity number 25-444-80-3467-01. This grant aims to provide statewide support for survivors of domestic violence and their dependents, focusing on services that address the unique challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The total available funding is $2.8 million, with individual awards ranging between $150,000 and $2,000,000. One or two grant awards are anticipated. Applications must be submitted by October 31, 2024, at 11:59 PM CST.

This grant is designed to address both immediate and ongoing needs in domestic violence services, such as shelter (temporary refuge), supportive services, and culturally specific assistance for survivors. Funding will support services that directly mitigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, including expanding access to testing, vaccines, and mobile health units, as well as enhancing the ability of domestic violence service providers to address survivors' mental health, safety, and housing needs. Temporary refuge may include the use of shelters, hotel vouchers, or other off-site accommodations in combination with comprehensive services. Supportive services may include counseling, case management, legal advocacy, transportation, health services, and culturally or linguistically appropriate services.

Eligible applicants must be non-profit organizations already funded by IDHS and engaged in statewide domestic violence services. Applicants are required to have at least two years of demonstrated capacity in providing comprehensive services to survivors of domestic violence. They must already be part of Illinois' statewide safety net for domestic violence services. Only organizations currently funded by IDHS are eligible, meaning new or first-time applicants will not be considered. No cost-sharing or matching is required for this grant, and indirect costs are allowed if properly justified and approved.

Applications must include a project narrative that outlines the need for the proposed services, the activities that will be conducted, and the personnel responsible for implementing the project. The narrative must include a detailed timeline and specify how the project will improve access to services for survivors. The budget must also provide a clear explanation of how grant funds will be allocated to support the program’s goals.

To apply, organizations must submit a uniform grant application and a narrative that addresses the statement of need, detailed activities, responsible personnel, and budget. The proposal narrative is weighted heavily, making up 100 points of the application’s total score. The narrative must not exceed 15 double-spaced pages and must clearly outline how the proposed project addresses gaps in services that were exacerbated by the pandemic. Applicants are encouraged to detail how their projects will prioritize marginalized and vulnerable populations, aligning with IDHS’s commitment to equity and racial justice.

A technical assistance session will be held on October 16, 2024, to assist potential applicants. Applications must be submitted electronically to the IDHS email specified in the notice, and submissions will be time-stamped upon receipt. Late submissions will not be considered. The grant period is expected to begin on November 1, 2024, and continue through June 30, 2025, pending funding availability.

This opportunity is intended to enhance services for survivors of domestic violence by addressing both their immediate safety and long-term recovery needs, with a particular focus on the heightened challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.