The New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) is soliciting proposals to support the development and operation of Family Resource Centers (FRCs) throughout the state, with funding from the federal Community-Based Child Abuse Prevention (CBCAP) Program. This initiative aligns with OCFS’s broader mission to strengthen families and communities, reduce involvement in the child welfare system, and improve the overall well-being of children. FRCs serve as voluntary, community-based hubs that provide a flexible, culturally competent array of services designed to reduce risk factors for child abuse and neglect and to build protective factors for families. Programs may either establish new FRCs or expand/enhance existing ones.
The funding supports community-based programs focused on primary and secondary prevention of child maltreatment. Services offered by FRCs may include parenting education (both formal and informal), peer support, playgroups, parent leadership opportunities, job training, educational services, and referrals to critical support services including mental health, substance use treatment, and domestic violence assistance. All services must be responsive to community needs and informed by interdisciplinary planning with input from parents and local service providers.
Awards will be made across nine regions of New York State, prioritizing proposals from underserved counties. The initiative anticipates allocating $2.75 million annually for five years, totaling $13.75 million. Applicants can request up to $300,000 per county, for up to three counties per proposal. Though no match is required, in-kind or additional financial contributions may strengthen an application. Programs must not duplicate services provided by local departments of social services.
Eligible applicants include not-for-profit organizations and local government entities, such as public educational institutions and school districts. Applicants must prequalify in the Statewide Financial System (SFS) and demonstrate community need, cross-sector collaboration, and readiness to implement a program aligned with OCFS priorities, including racial equity and support for high-need/disconnected youth. A signed commitment form from relevant local departments of social services and community partners must be included or agreed to post-award.
The application is a two-step process: submission of an online administrative form followed by email submission of required documents including a completed application template, budget, and organizational chart. Proposals are scored based on community need, proposed services, alignment with desired outcomes, staffing qualifications, and budget clarity. Contracts are expected to begin May 1, 2026, and last for five years, contingent on satisfactory performance. The application deadline is December 12, 2025. Questions must be submitted by November 6, 2025, with responses posted around November 21, 2025. The anticipated notification of award is February 6, 2026.
Ensure SFS prequalification; articulate regional need and LDSS alignment; submit all attachments exactly as required; focus on protective factor outcomes
