OVC FY25 Integrated Services for Minor Victims of Human Trafficking

The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC), operating under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs, has announced the “Integrated Services for Minor Victims of Human Trafficking” grant opportunity. This funding program is designed to enhance the availability and delivery of comprehensive services tailored specifically to the developmental needs of minor victims of sex and labor trafficking. As part of the DOJ’s broader mission to uphold the rule of law and safeguard civil rights, this initiative aims to strengthen victim support systems while supporting law enforcement and public safety efforts. The program is deeply aligned with OVC’s goals to address the vulnerabilities of American children and respond robustly to the human trafficking crisis. The funding supports programs that assist minor victims who were trafficked and began receiving services while under the age of 18. Services can continue beyond age 18, if needed, and may extend to the victim's children or nonoffending parents and caregivers, provided they contribute to the minor’s recovery. Services must be developmentally appropriate, trauma-informed, and flexible in delivery to address the unique circumstances often faced by youth engaged with the child welfare or juvenile justice systems. Applicants must demonstrate the capacity to deliver these services directly or through strong referral networks, and must be compliant with the VAWA Confidentiality Provision under 34 U.S.C. § 12291(b)(2). Projects must be designed to increase the availability, diversity, and quality of victim services, train relevant professionals in identifying and responding to trafficking, and develop formal protocols to address both sex and labor trafficking of minors. Funded activities include direct services (emergency shelter, medical care, behavioral health support, job training), community-based interventions, outreach to local partners, and data collection for program performance monitoring. Funds may also support survivor engagement in program design, and applicants are encouraged to integrate survivor input meaningfully throughout their work. All programs must ensure service provider licensing and staff training are in place, and that a dedicated program coordinator attends OVC orientations. Total program funding is $10 million, with individual award ceilings of up to $950,000 over a 36-month project period starting July 1, 2026. A cost-sharing match of 25% is required. This can be fulfilled via cash or in-kind contributions and must meet audit and allowability standards. Federal funding cannot exceed 75% of the total project cost. While the grant supports a broad range of services, unallowable costs include direct cash to victims, holding empty shelter beds, primary prevention activities, and the promotion or legalization of prostitution. The application process involves a two-step submission: applicants must first submit the SF-424 via Grants.gov by February 24, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. ET, followed by a full JustGrants application by March 3, 2026, at 8:59 p.m. ET. Submissions require registration in SAM.gov and Grants.gov, and applicants are urged to begin the registration process no later than February 9, 2026. Required materials include a proposal narrative, budget detail form, resumes, timeline, MOUs/LOIs (if applicable), and various federal assurances and disclosures. OVC will not fund applications missing required components or exceeding the $950,000 ceiling. Applications will undergo peer review, programmatic review, and risk assessments, with funding decisions ultimately made by the Assistant Attorney General. Prospective applicants can access a pre-recorded informational webinar and additional training via OVC’s website. The anticipated start date for funded projects is July 1, 2026. Performance reports and financial documentation will be required throughout the grant period, including semi-annual performance reports and quarterly financials. The grant is recurring, with future cycles anticipated, making it a strategic opportunity for organizations dedicated to combating trafficking among youth through sustainable, trauma-informed care.

Addressing priority areas such as protecting children and engaging survivors can strengthen applications; avoid unallowable expenses including cash to victims and empty shelter bed costs.