California Law Justice and Legal Services Grants

The Proposition 47 Request for Proposals (RFP), announced by the Board of State and Community Corrections (BSCC), aims to provide approximately $152 million in grant funding over a period from October 1, 2024, through June 30, 2028. This program aligns with the BSCC's mission to enhance public safety and criminal justice in California by focusing on rehabilitation and community-based solutions, rather than solely incarceration. The grant is designed to support mental health services, substance use disorder treatment, and diversion programs for individuals within the criminal justice system. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are people in the criminal justice system in California who require mental health services, substance use disorder treatment, and/or diversion programs. Eligible applicants are public agencies located within the State of California, including counties, cities, Indian reservations or Rancherias, school districts, municipal corporations, and various other public entities. The overarching impact goal is to reduce recidivism, improve public health outcomes, and foster safer communities by addressing the root causes of criminal behavior. The program prioritizes the provision of mental health services, substance use disorder treatment, and diversion programs. Additionally, applicants are strongly encouraged to offer supplemental housing-related services and other community-based supportive services. These supportive services include job skills training, case management, and civil legal services, which are critical for successful reintegration into society and long-term stability. The grant structure includes two categories: a Small Scope Category, offering up to $2 million per project with $60.8 million available in total, and a Large Scope Category, providing between $2 million and $8 million per project, with $91.2 million in total funds available. The expected outcomes include a measurable increase in access to mental health and substance use disorder treatment, a reduction in the number of individuals entering or re-entering the criminal justice system, and improved rates of employment and stable housing for program participants. The BSCC's strategic priorities, reflected in this RFP, emphasize evidence-based practices and community-driven solutions. The underlying theory of change posits that by investing in comprehensive services that address the social and economic determinants of criminal behavior, individuals can achieve sustained recovery and successful community reintegration, thereby leading to a more just and equitable society.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to organizations that will assist under-resourced communities in California with securing funding and implementing projects for zero-emission vehicle infrastructure.

The San Diego County Bar Foundation (SDCBF) provides grants with the mission of improving public awareness of the legal system, enhancing the administration of justice, and facilitating the delivery of legal services. This is achieved through the strategic distribution of its funds to legal aid and public interest non-profits operating within San Diego County. The Foundation's core belief is that justice serves as a critical equalizer in society, and it acts as an effective conduit for the legal community to engage in law-related philanthropy, thereby strengthening the profession and benefiting San Diego County. The SDCBF's primary beneficiaries are underserved and vulnerable individuals and communities within San Diego County who require access to legal aid and public interest services. The Foundation aims to achieve equal access to justice, increase public awareness of legal needs, and advocate for those who are marginalized. By investing in these organizations, the SDCBF seeks to create a healthier and stronger community environment by ensuring that legal services are available to those who might otherwise be unable to access them. The Foundation's priorities and focus areas revolve around its core values: Access to Justice, Service, Accountability, Integrity, and Permanence. It diligently supports legal and non-legal communities through its grant-making process and ongoing fundraising efforts. The SDCBF emphasizes service by focusing on equal access to justice, public awareness, and advocacy for the underserved, coupled with ongoing education. Accountability is demonstrated through conscientious stewardship of funds, ensuring that donor contributions benefit designated community partners, with sustainability guaranteed through a growing endowment. Integrity is upheld through honesty, civility, and fairness, maintaining a strict no-conflict-of-interest policy. Permanence is secured by preserving the Foundation's longevity and ensuring its legacy through continuous endowment growth. Expected outcomes include a more equitable justice system, increased public understanding of legal rights and resources, and a strengthened network of legal aid and public interest organizations within San Diego County. Measurable results would involve tracking the number of individuals served by grant recipients, the types of legal services provided, and the impact of these services on the community. The SDCBF's strategic priorities are deeply rooted in its theory of change, which posits that by investing in legal aid and public interest organizations, and by fostering law-related philanthropy, it can ensure access to justice, enhance the legal profession, and contribute to the overall well-being of San Diego County, ultimately serving as a model bar foundation nationwide.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to federally recognized California tribes to address issues related to missing and murdered Indigenous people through various prevention and intervention initiatives.

The Santa Barbara Foundation's Tri-Counties Blood Bank Fund Grant aims to distribute income to qualified nonprofit organizations supporting blood and blood-related products and services, aligning with the Foundation's broader mission to enhance community well-being. This grant operates through an annual Request for Proposal (RFP) process, focusing on three main types of support: Indigent Care Grants, Education Grants, and Scholarships. The program's strategic intent is to address critical needs within Santa Barbara County related to blood banking, from ensuring access for vulnerable populations to advancing medical knowledge and public awareness. Indigent Care Grants are specifically designed to reimburse "qualified hospitals" for "un-reimbursed costs" incurred when providing blood or blood products to "qualified patients" in Santa Barbara County. Qualified patients are defined as those with incomes 200% or less of the federal poverty line and without private or government insurance. The impact goal here is to alleviate the financial burden on hospitals and ensure that low-income, uninsured patients receive necessary blood products, directly contributing to health equity within the community. This component directly targets the most vulnerable populations, ensuring their access to essential medical care. Education Grants and Scholarships form another crucial pillar of this program. Education grants are intended for advanced medical technology or nursing education related to blood banking, physician education on transfusion medicine, and community education on blood and blood diseases. These grants prioritize improving the quality of blood banking, enhancing hospital staff's capabilities, and raising public awareness. Expected outcomes include a more skilled medical workforce, improved transfusion practices, and a more informed community regarding blood-related health issues and the importance of blood donation. Measurable results could include an increase in trained professionals, improved blood banking practices, and enhanced public knowledge about blood-borne diseases and critical shortages. Scholarships are aimed at post-doctoral education in non-medical disciplines related to blood and blood banking at UCSB, covering departments like Molecular, Cellular, Developmental Biology, Chemistry, and Chemical Engineering, as well as medical education in hematology/oncology specialties. This focus underscores the Foundation's commitment to fostering cutting-edge research and specialized medical expertise. The expected outcome is the development of new knowledge and highly trained specialists who can contribute to advancements in blood science and patient care. The overall theory of change for the Tri-Counties Blood Bank Fund is that by investing in direct patient support, professional education, community awareness, and specialized research, the Santa Barbara Foundation can significantly improve the availability, quality, and accessibility of blood and blood-related services for the entire Santa Barbara County community.

The purpose of the Program is to fund CASA Programs in California to provide more children in foster care with a CASA volunteer who will advocate for the services and support needed by children who have experienced abuse and neglect.

The Office of Economic and Workforce Development (OEWD) is offering grants to support San Francisco’s residents, businesses, visitors, and workers by providing critical economic and workforce development resources. This Request for Proposals (RFP) encompasses four distinct program areas, with an anticipated total funding of $2.38 million for initial grant awards. The grants are designed to support programs delivered through three key OEWD divisions: Business Development, Community Economic Development (formerly Invest In Neighborhoods), and Workforce Development. The target beneficiaries of these programs include various communities within San Francisco. For Community Economic Development, the focus is on Castro cultural activation, specifically uplifting Queer and Transgender Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. Workforce Development programs target workers through the Industries of Opportunity-Worker Cooperative Program and youth and young adults through the Industries of Opportunity-Youth and Young Adult Food Sovereignty program. Business Development programs aim to benefit the broader community through Union Square Park Programming. The grant prioritizes specific areas with defined funding allocations. Community Economic Development programs, focusing on Castro cultural activation, have a funding of $30,000. Workforce Development programs include $950,000 for the Worker Cooperative Program ($425,000 per program year) and $400,000 for the Youth and Young Adult Food Sovereignty program ($200,000 per program year). Business Development programs, specifically for Union Square Park Programming, are allocated $1,000,000. Successful proposals are expected to be funded for up to six years, concluding no later than June 2030, which indicates a long-term commitment to the initiatives. The eligibility criteria require applicants to be a nonprofit 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), or 501(c)(6) organization, registered with the IRS and in good standing with relevant California state entities, and eligible to do business with the City and County of San Francisco. Expected outcomes include economic growth, workforce development, and community empowerment within the targeted areas of San Francisco, aligning with OEWD’s mission to support the city's residents and economy.

This grant provides funding to various organizations to expand career education and training in allied health occupations for adults from disadvantaged backgrounds and healthcare workers facing advancement barriers.

The California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle) offers the Rubberized Pavement Grant Program, previously known as the Rubberized Asphalt Concrete (RAC) Grant Program. Its primary mission is to foster markets for recycled-content surfacing products derived from waste tires generated within California. This program directly aligns with environmental stewardship and resource recovery objectives, seeking to mitigate the adverse environmental impacts caused by the unlawful disposal and stockpiling of waste tires. By promoting the use of recycled tire rubber in pavement, CalRecycle aims to support a circular economy and reduce waste, contributing to a more sustainable infrastructure development. The target beneficiaries of this grant program include local governments (cities, counties, and cities and counties), other local governmental agencies such as regional park districts, special districts, and Joint Powers Authorities, and qualifying Indian Tribes. State agencies are also eligible, but with specific limitations on projects related to Class 1 bikeways, greenways, and disability access at parks. The impact goals are centered on increasing the use of rubberized pavement, thereby diverting waste tires from landfills and illegal dumps. This also contributes to the longevity of road infrastructure, as RAC roads are proven to last 50% longer than those made with conventional materials. The program's priorities and focuses are clear: to expand the application of rubberized asphalt concrete (RAC) technology. RAC is produced by blending ground tire rubber with asphalt binder, which is then mixed with conventional materials. This process not only addresses waste management but also offers a durable and cost-effective solution for road construction and maintenance. The emphasis is on practical, implementable projects that utilize this recycled content, demonstrating its effectiveness and encouraging widespread adoption across California. Expected outcomes and measurable results include a reduction in waste tire stockpiles and illegal dumping, an increase in the number of miles of roads constructed or rehabilitated with RAC, and a corresponding extension of pavement lifespan. The program measures success through the amount of waste tires diverted and the scale of rubberized pavement projects undertaken. By providing financial incentives, CalRecycle strategically promotes a market for recycled tire products, demonstrating a theory of change where economic support drives environmental and infrastructural improvements. The funding structure, with maximum awards ranging from $250,000 for individual applications to $500,000 for qualifying Indian Tribes, is designed to stimulate diverse projects and ensure accessibility for various eligible entities.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to non-profit organizations and public agencies in California to deliver essential services aimed at improving the health, safety, and educational outcomes of children, youth, and young adults in Richmond and unincorporated North Richmond.

This program provides coaching and community support for fundraisers of color at small nonprofits in Sacramento and Yolo counties, focusing on those addressing health and racial disparities.

This funding opportunity provides California counties with financial support to purchase essential equipment and training aimed at improving local criminal justice initiatives and addressing community safety needs.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Office of Spill Prevention and Response (CDFW-OSPR) is offering a grant program through its Environmental Enhancement Fund (EEF). The EEF acquires funds from spill violations, aligning with California’s Lempert-Keene-Seastrand Oil Spill Prevention and Response Act. This initiative directly supports CDFW-OSPR's mission to protect and restore California's natural resources by funding projects that enhance, restore, or acquire habitat for wildlife. The primary beneficiaries of these grants are various entities including nonprofit organizations, cities, counties, districts, state agencies, and, where permitted, federal agencies. The ultimate impact goal is to benefit fish and wildlife populations by improving their habitats and restoring ecosystem functions. All eligible groups and projects are strongly encouraged to apply, fostering a broad approach to environmental enhancement. The program prioritizes environmental enhancement projects that are located within or immediately adjacent to waters of the state, as defined in California Government Code (of Section 8670.3). These projects must also demonstrate measurable outcomes within a predetermined timeframe and be specifically designed to acquire, restore, or improve habitat or restore ecosystem function, or both, for the benefit of fish and wildlife. The selection committee, composed of representatives from the California Coastal Conservancy, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, and CDFW-OSPR, will evaluate proposals based on these criteria. Expected outcomes include tangible improvements in habitat quality, increased biodiversity, and enhanced ecosystem resilience. Projects are required to have measurable outcomes, ensuring accountability and demonstrating the effectiveness of the funded initiatives. The selection committee is specifically seeking projects with a minimum requested grant award of $500,000, indicating a focus on substantial and impactful projects. All projects must be completed by April 1, 2031, providing a clear timeframe for implementation and results. This strategic approach reflects a theory of change where targeted investment in habitat restoration and acquisition directly leads to the recovery and enhancement of California's diverse fish and wildlife populations.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to California public agencies for community-based programs focused on mental health, substance use treatment, and reducing recidivism among individuals involved in the criminal justice system.

This program provides funding to California cities and counties to create and improve initiatives that support individuals affected by cannabis criminalization, helping them enter the regulated cannabis market.

The California Wildlands Grassroots Fund (Cal Wildlands), administered by the Rose Foundation for Communities and the Environment, aims to preserve California's wildlands by supporting the work of activists and organizations dedicated to their protection. This aligns directly with the Rose Foundation's broader mission for communities and the environment by fostering grassroots efforts that lead to permanent conservation, restoration, and stewardship of natural habitats. The program's core objective is to safeguard California's wilderness and native biological diversity through strategic, community-driven initiatives. The primary beneficiaries of Cal Wildlands are small nonprofit organizations with annual expenses and income of $200,000 or less, as well as individual activists with a proven track record in protecting California's natural landscapes, ecosystems, plants, and wildlife. The fund specifically targets geographic areas and advocacy efforts that have not traditionally received significant financial support, including rural communities. The impact goals are centered on achieving permanent protection for wildlands, which are defined as natural habitats capable of supporting significant native plant and animal life, through legislation or deed restrictions. The fund prioritizes discrete, project-specific support with concrete sites and strategies, particularly those in geographic or issue areas historically underserved by financial and political support. It strongly emphasizes community-based advocacy and organizing, where campaigns are steered by affected community members and largely driven by volunteers. Other key priorities include projects that establish or combat critical precedents, innovative strategies, and efforts to build diverse constituencies for wildlands protection, especially by engaging communities of color and non-traditional stakeholders. Cal Wildlands supports a broad range of strategies and activities to achieve its objectives. These include grassroots organizing, public education, legislative advocacy, media campaigns, lawsuits, scientific research (including citizen science), coalition building, and developing partnerships. Supported activities range from communications campaigns and strategic planning to hiring technical and legal experts, training, and restoration. The expected outcomes involve tangible advancements in wildlands and open space protection, increased community engagement in conservation efforts, and the establishment of critical precedents that can influence future protection initiatives, ultimately contributing to the long-term preservation of California's natural heritage and biodiversity.

The Proposition 47 Grant Program Proposal Package submission is available through an online portal submission process. Applicants must submit proposals through the BSCC Submittable portal by 5:00 P.M. (PDT) on June 10, 2024 Any technical questions concerning the RFP, the proposal process or programmatic issues must be submitted by email to: [email protected] A virtual grant information session will be held on Tuesday, April 30th, 2024 at 10:00 A.M. to provide clarity on RFP instructions and answer technical questions from prospective applicants. See the BSCC website for more information. GUIDING PRINCIPLES FOR BSCC’s PROPOSITION 47 GRANT•Incorporate community partnerships and collaborations.•Encourage culturally competent services and approaches that foster the principles of restorative justice.•Define target populations, especially those populations that are:-traditionally underserved or inappropriately served through mental health and substance use disorder service providers, or-overrepresented within the criminal justice system, or-experiencing or at risk for homelessness•Expand access to culturally congruent quality mental health and substance use disorder services, including services for co-occurring mental health and substance use disorder needs and the use of evidence-based or community defined practices.•Identify and address known barriers to serving target populations, such as:-lack of jobs, housing, or employment•Prioritize client-focused/client-centered holistic programs and approaches, including healing strategies and trauma-informed care.•Expand and improve on efforts to divert individuals away from criminal justice involvement through increased diversion programs and improved behavioral health services or community supports.•Include community-based organizations with diverse staffing, including those who are system-impacted individuals, or who have varying educational levels and life experiences.•Demonstrate capacity building for service providers at every level.•Be mindful of regional equity and geographic diversity, including smaller and rural counties.•Collect program data and measure/evaluate outcomes and publish and share information.•Encourage community engagement, where members of the community participate in the identifying, informing, and shaping of policies, goals, services, and solutions. Services and programs proposed in response to this RFP must be designed to serve people who have been arrested, charged with, or convicted of a criminal offense and have a history of mental health or substance use disorders. Eligible applicants are public agencies located in the State of California.  To be eligible, a Lead Agency must subcontract with one or more non-governmental, community-based organization(s) for a minimum of 50 percent of the total grant award to demonstrate a shared partnership rooted in community engagement and economic equity. Small scope applicants can apply for up to $2M and large scope candidates can apply for $2-8M. The grant period is 10/1/24-6/30/28, the last 3 months to be used to finalize and submit the required Local Evaluation Report and program-specific compliance audit.

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This grant provides funding to schools in California to implement restorative practices that foster community, improve relationships, and address conflicts effectively, ultimately enhancing school climate and student well-being.

This program provides funding to Bay Area community organizations and nonprofits to engage residents in initiatives that improve air quality and public health.