Family Preservation Project Grant

The Family Preservation Project Grant is an initiative funded by the District of Columbia Child and Family Services Agency aimed at providing essential legal advocacy and social work services to low-income families who are at risk of entering the child welfare system. The grant seeks to prevent the unnecessary removal of children from their homes and to minimize the emotional trauma associated with such removals. By offering support to parents and caregivers, the project aims to facilitate opportunities for children to remain with their families or with relatives who can care for them when parents are unable to do so. The primary purpose of the Family Preservation Project is to enhance the safety, permanence, and well-being of children and their families in the District of Columbia. The objectives include increasing the number of families receiving community-based preventive and support services, as well as expanding the network of resources available to at-risk families. The successful applicant will be responsible for coordinating legal support and ensuring that the needs of families are met effectively throughout the grant period. Eligible organizations can receive funding of up to $200,000 for a grant duration of one year, with the possibility of extending for up to four additional years. The funding can be utilized for various aspects of the family preservation project, including legal services and social work support. Organizations applying for the grant must demonstrate their capability to meet the needs outlined in the request for applications and commit to fulfilling the grant requirements within the specified timeframes. Applications will be accepted exclusively from legal clinics or law firms that meet established criteria. Organizations may collaborate to provide coordinated components of the program but must designate a Lead Applicant. Additionally, all entities wishing to engage with the District of Columbia must be registered with the Office of Tax and Revenue, the District’s procurement network, and the District’s payment system, while also complying with local tax filing requirements. Submission requirements include a detailed proposal that addresses the specific needs of the target population and outlines the intended use of funds. Applicants will need to answer questions related to their experience, capacity, and approach to implementing the project. Evaluation criteria will focus on the applicant's ability to meet the identified needs, the quality of the proposed services, and the overall impact on the families served. The application deadline for the Family Preservation Project Grant is set for October 14, 2024. It is important for potential applicants to be aware of this timeline and to prepare their submissions accordingly. For further information, interested parties can visit the District of Columbia Child and Family Services Agency's website, where additional resources and guidance are available.