Tennessee Income Security and Social Services Grants

The Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) is offering 2024 Families First Community Grants to eligible non-profit organizations in Tennessee. The program aims to engage these organizations to administer community-based services that meet the needs of low-income families, guiding them toward permanent economic security. This initiative aligns with the foundation's mission to improve economic security and well-being for low-income families and strategically utilize TANF funds. The four core purposes of TANF—providing assistance to needy families so children can be cared for in their own homes, reducing dependency on government benefits by promoting job preparation, work, and marriage, preventing and reducing out-of-wedlock pregnancies, and encouraging two-parent families—form the bedrock of this grant program. The target beneficiaries are low-income families in Tennessee who face challenges related to education, health and well-being, economic stability, and safe, stable, and nurturing relationships. The impact goals are to place these families on a path to permanent economic security and to foster a more strategic use of TANF funds to achieve the outlined purposes. The program seeks to reduce dependency on government benefits, improve family well-being, and ultimately build the economic, social, and developmental capital of those served. The program prioritizes partnerships with non-profit organizations that demonstrate an understanding of the challenges faced by low-income families and have a proven track record. Key focuses for partnership include organizations that have implemented or developed effective, community-based programs; demonstrated strong leadership and coordination of cross-sector partnerships; and shown a proven track record for providing services that help low-income families achieve economic mobility. Furthermore, organizations must have identified diverse resources, secured cross-sector partnerships, and developed a family-led approach aligned with one or more TANF purposes. Expected outcomes include a long-term positive impact on the community, with a clear articulation of return on investment and cost-benefit analysis to sustain service delivery. The Department also seeks partners committed to co-creating solutions to significant social problems with other stakeholders and customers, and those leveraging other public resources through innovative initiatives. The strategic priorities revolve around fostering economic security, reducing dependency, and strengthening families through evidence-based and evidence-informed program models, all while promoting a collaborative, community-led approach.

This funding opportunity provides financial support for community events that engage youth aged 12-24 in Knoxville, promoting social connections and well-being through meaningful participation.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations that improve education, health, and financial stability for communities in seven counties of South Central Tennessee.

This funding opportunity supports Tennessee-based nonprofit organizations and local government entities in creating community-focused arts projects that enhance access to the arts and improve quality of life.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to Tennessee colleges and universities to create and improve inclusive higher education programs for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

This program provides funding to public housing authorities and nonprofit organizations in Tennessee to create and improve affordable rental housing for low-income residents, including those with special needs.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and educational institutions in the Cumberland Plateau and Southern Appalachians to restore ecosystems, improve habitats, and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, for projects that improve the community's quality of life through social welfare, education, recreation, and economic development.

This funding opportunity supports local arts organizations in Memphis that create impactful, arts-based programs aligned with community development, education, health, and wellness initiatives.

This funding opportunity is designed to assist nonprofit organizations in Tennessee that provide essential services to low-income families, promoting education, health, economic stability, and strong family relationships.

This program provides free wheelchair ramp construction for low-income Tennessee residents with mobility impairments, enhancing their accessibility and independence.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations focused on improving veteran mental health through stable housing solutions and supportive services in select states.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to healthcare organizations in Tennessee to establish a center that will improve rural health access and outcomes through innovative service delivery and technical assistance.

This funding opportunity supports organizations in Memphis, Tennessee, that promote health improvement, education, and access for the uninsured, while fostering good citizenship through projects in the arts, civic engagement, education, social services, and youth initiatives.