Recovery Housing Program

The Recovery Housing Program (RHP), administered by the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA) in collaboration with the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration, is a federally authorized initiative under Section 8071 of the SUPPORT Act. This program is designed to provide financial assistance to Indiana communities for the development and expansion of transitional housing options for individuals recovering from substance use disorders. Since its inception in 2020, the state has received five allocations totaling $4.9 million, emphasizing a commitment to support community infrastructure that fosters long-term recovery. RHP funding can be used for a variety of eligible activities including the acquisition of real property, legal and surveying costs, environmental reviews, lease and utility payments for new or expanded services, rehabilitation and reconstruction of housing units, demolition, property disposition, and administrative costs. Administrative expenses must be reasonable and are capped at 8% of the total grant if funded through CDBG dollars. The program explicitly allows payments for lease, rent, and utilities for up to two years for eligible individuals in recovery, thereby promoting stable housing as a key factor in sustained recovery outcomes. Eligibility for this program extends to both entitlement and non-entitlement communities in Indiana, as well as counties, incorporated towns, and unincorporated areas (through their respective counties). The lead applicant must be a local unit of government with the legal authority to implement the project and may partner with a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to execute the program. These nonprofit partners must demonstrate their tax-exempt status via documentation from the IRS, the Indiana Department of Revenue, and the Indiana Secretary of State. The current funding round for the RHP includes a two-phase application process. Interested applicants must first notify their assigned community liaison of their intent to apply. Proposals must be submitted through the Indiana Electronic Grants Management System. The initial proposal is due by December 21, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. ET, with applicants encouraged to submit by 3 p.m. due to the end of technical assistance availability. The full application is due by February 22, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. ET, with similar guidance to submit before 4 p.m. on February 20, 2026. All applicants are required to consult their community liaison for clarification on eligible activities and program requirements. The program does not appear to include a formal pre-application phase like a concept paper or LOI, but early notification and planning with a liaison are strongly encouraged. Questions may be directed to CDBG@ocra.in.gov. No details are provided on the timing of award announcements or project performance periods. There is no indication that the program is recurring, though multiple past rounds suggest a potential for future funding cycles.

Submit before 3 p.m./4 p.m. for support; contact liaison early; ensure legal capacity to administer grant.