The Peer Bridger Services Technical Assistance Grant, administered by the New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH), seeks to enhance the capacity of Article 28 facilities to support individuals transitioning from inpatient psychiatric hospitalization to community life. This initiative emphasizes peer-driven models of care, centering on the unique value that trained Peer Bridgers bring through shared lived experience, mutual support, and recovery-oriented services. The program aims to embed these principles through comprehensive training, technical assistance, and ongoing professional development for facilities utilizing the Peer Bridger model.
This funding opportunity supports one selected technical assistance entity with $100,000 annually over five years to deliver training, guidance, and collaboration opportunities across Article 28 hospitals. The grantee will be responsible for developing and disseminating best practice tools and workshops that are trauma-informed, person-centered, and culturally responsive. Services include specialized instruction on crisis intervention, active listening, wellness planning (e.g., WRAP and PADS), and professional development for Peer Bridgers. Additionally, the grant supports the creation of a Learning Collaborative and mentoring systems to bolster peer staff integration into hospital teams.
Eligible applicants are limited to organizations that currently operate training and technical assistance programs funded by OMH. These entities must be prequalified through New York State's Statewide Financial System (SFS) prior to application. Proposals must be submitted through SFS, and applicants are advised to initiate this process well in advance of the deadline to account for registration and prequalification timelines. Required submissions include a detailed proposal template, budget, and certifications related to sexual harassment and gender-based violence prevention.
Proposals will be scored on a 100-point scale across technical and financial criteria. Evaluation categories include understanding of population needs, training expertise, community engagement, implementation strategy, diversity and equity planning, and fiscal management. Only one award will be made based on the highest total score, and award notification is expected in February 2026, with contracts commencing on July 1, 2026.
Applicants must submit proposals by 2:00 PM EST on January 15, 2026. The anticipated award announcement is February 18, 2026. No mailed or emailed proposals will be accepted; submission must occur via SFS. Amanda Szczepkowski at OMH is the designated contact for this grant opportunity, and any inquiries must be directed to her via OMHLocalProcurement@omh.ny.gov. This grant is expected to recur annually, providing ongoing support for advancing peer services in mental health care across New York State.
Submit early via SFS to avoid technical issues; focus on training and community engagement experience.
