Better Birth Outcomes - Comprehensive

The Better Birth Outcomes - Comprehensive (BBO-C) program is funded and administered by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), Family and Community Services Division, with funding from both state and federal sources. The grant program is part of the Bureau of Maternal Child Health’s (BMCH) efforts to reduce maternal and infant morbidity and mortality across Illinois, with an emphasis on addressing racial and ethnic disparities. This is a new grant program, and the IDHS aims to distribute up to $1,685,700 to support services within the identified geographic regions. The primary goal of the BBO-C program is to provide direct, comprehensive, one-on-one nursing assessments and interventions to pregnant and parenting individuals and their infants, referred to as dyads. Nurse Navigators conduct in-person assessments during prenatal and postpartum periods, offering support, connections to medical homes, and assistance accessing medical, social, and community services. Non-nurse Navigators may also assist in providing follow-up support as guided by nurses. The services are provided throughout pregnancy and the first six months after birth to eligible Illinois residents. The grant is open to public or private organizations that have or will establish a physical presence in the eligible geographic areas, and have the required staffing model in place within 30 days of the contract start date. Eligible entities include local governments, hospitals, community-based organizations, federally qualified health centers, and nonprofits. The application requires organizations to meet all registration and pre-qualification requirements of the state and federal government, including active SAM.gov registration and a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). Pre-applications or letters of intent are not required. Applicants must submit a comprehensive application including a program narrative with sections on need, readiness, capacity, and quality, along with required attachments such as an organizational chart and board of directors list. The proposal is scored on various criteria including experience, capacity, and proposed strategies to meet program goals. Applications must be submitted electronically to DHS.OFWNOFO@illinois.gov and budgets must be entered through the CSA Tracking System. The application period runs from June 6, 2025, to June 23, 2025, at 5:00 pm CDT. Evaluation of applications includes an eligibility review followed by a merit-based review conducted by a team of state agency representatives. The evaluation considers program quality, applicant readiness, and alignment with IDHS priorities. Bonus points are awarded for applicants serving multiple areas, being a registered DHS Drug Overdose Prevention Program provider, and demonstrating cultural alignment with the communities served. Awards are expected to begin no earlier than July 1, 2025, and will cover a 12-month period through June 30, 2026. Successful applicants may be eligible for up to two one-year renewals, contingent on performance and funding availability.