The Commission’s core fatherhood program is called the SEE Fathers Program. The purpose of this program is to enhance the well-being of Ohio’s children by inspiring and supporting groups and communities to improve the quality of fatherhood. The Commission is seeking to partner with local non-profits, government agencies, or faith-based organizations who must administer and implement the SEE Fathers Program in at least two counties (note: the counties do not have to be contiguous). Selected Applicants (“Grantees”) are funded with Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).
Grantees must provide direct services to fathers. Fathers who seek services from the SEE Fathers Program have unique needs and barriers. Grantees help fathers through their unique needs and barriers. Fathers may have several unique needs or barriers, including but not limited to the following:
1. Did not complete high school;
2. Lack marketable job skills;
3. Are underemployed or unemployed;
4. Are incarcerated;
5. Are a restored citizen;
6. Are expectant fathers;
7. Are new fathers of infants;
8. Are young fathers 18 or younger;
9. Pay or owe child support; and/or
10. Involved in children services’ system.
As a result, the target population often needs skills and services that increase economic stability, foster responsible parenting, and promote healthy relationships in their families.
This RFGA aligns with DCY’s three goals:
1. Ensure infants reach their first birthday, by decreasing infant mortality;
2. Ensure children are ready for kindergarten by increasing kindergarten readiness assessment scores; and
3. Ensure children remain in environments that are familiar and safe by decreasing the number of children and youth entering the foster care system.
