[Federal Register: April 5, 2004 (Volume 69, Number 65)]
[Notices]
[Page 17680-17689]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr05ap04-77]
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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Administration for Children and Families
Community Food and Nutrition Program--Discretionary Grants;
Office of Community Services
Announcement Type: Initial.
Funding Opportunity Number: HHS-2004-ACF-OCS-EN-0007.
CFDA Number: 93.571.
Due Date for Applications: Due date for receipt of applications is
June 4, 2004.
I. Funding Opportunity Description
The Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Act, as amended,
authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make funds
available under several programs to support program activities that
will result in direct benefits targeted to low-income people. This
program announcement covers the grant authority found at Section 681 of
the Community Services Block Grant Act, (The Act) (Pub. L. 97-35) as
amended by the Community Opportunities, Accountability, and Training
and Educational Services Act of 1998 (Pub. L. 105-285), Community Food
and Nutrition Program. The Act authorizes the Secretary to award grants
on a competitive basis to eligible entities for community-based, local
and statewide and national programs including programs benefiting
Indians (as defined in section 677(e) of the CSBG Act) and migrant farm
workers.
The main objective of the CFNP is to link low-income people to food
and nutrition programs. Grant funds are provided to: (1) Coordinate
private and public food assistance resources, wherever the grant
recipient involved determines such coordination to be inadequate, to
better serve low-income populations; (2) assist low-income communities
to identify potential sponsors of child nutrition programs and to
initiate such programs in underserved or unserved areas; and (3)
develop innovative approaches at the State and local level to meet the
nutrition needs of low-income individuals. The OCS views this program
as a capacity building program, rather than a food delivery program.
The Office of Community Services encourages eligible applicants
with programs addressing obesity to submit applications. Eligible
applicants with programs benefiting Native Americans and migrant or
seasonal farm workers are also encouraged to submit applications.
Faith-based and
[[Page 17681]]
community-based organizations reaching underserved populations are also
eligible to apply.
Definitions of Terms
The following definitions apply:
Budget Period--The interval of time into which a grant period of
assistance (project period) is divided for budgetary and funding
purposes.
Capacity-Building--Refers to activities that assist eligible
entities to improve or enhance their overall or specific capability to
plan, deliver, manage and evaluate programs efficiently and effectively
to produce intended results for low-income individuals. This may
include upgrading internal financial management or computer systems,
establishing new external linkages with other organizations, adding or
refining a program component or replicating techniques or a program
piloted in another local community, or making other cost effective
improvements.
Displaced Worker--An individual who is in the labor market but has
been unemployed for six months or longer.
Eligible Entity--Public and private non-profit agencies, including
organizations benefiting Indians and migrant and seasonal farmworkers.
Faith-based organizations are eligible to apply for these Community
Food and Nutrition Program grants. Community-based organizations are
eligible to apply for these Community Food and Nutrition Program
grants.
Empowerment Zone and Enterprise Communities--Those communities
designated as such by the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary of
Housing and Urban Development.
Indian Tribe--A tribe, band, or other organized group of Native
American Indians recognized in the State or States in which it resides,
or considered by the Secretary of the Interior to be an Indian tribe or
an Indian organization.
Innovative Project--One that departs from, or significantly
modifies, past program practices and tests a new approach.
Migrant Farm Worker--An individual who works in agricultural
employment of a seasonal or other temporary nature who is required to
be absent from his/her place of permanent residence in order to secure
such employment.
Poverty Income Guidelines--Guidelines published annually by the
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that establish the level
of poverty defined as low-income for individuals and their families.
The guideline information is posted on the Internet at the following
address: http://www.hhs.aspe.gov/poverty/
Program Income--Gross income earned by the grant recipient that is
generated by an activity supported with grant funds.
Project Period--The total time for which a project is approved for
support, including any approved extensions.
Seasonal Farm Worker--Any individual employed in agricultural work
of a seasonal or other temporary nature who is able to remain at his/
her place of permanent residence while employed.
Self-Sufficiency--A condition where an individual or family does
not need, and is not eligible to receive, TANF assistance under Title I
of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act
of 1996 (Part A of Title IV of the Social Security Act.)
Underserved Area--(as it pertains to child nutrition programs)--A
locality in which less than one-half of the low-income children
eligible for assistance participate in any child nutrition program.
Non-profit Organization--refers to an organization, including
faith-based and community-based organization, which meets the
requirement for proof of non-profit status in the ``Additional
Information on Eligibility'' section of this announcement and has
demonstrated experience in providing training to individuals and
organizations on methods of effectively addressing the needs of low-
income families and communities.
Territories--refers to the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and American
Samoa for the purpose of this announcement.
Program Purpose, Scope and Focus
The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is committed to
improving the overall health and nutritional well-being of all
individuals, including low-income persons, through improved preventive
health care and promotion of personal responsibility.
DHHS also recognizes that improving the health and nutrition status
of low-income persons can also be improved by access to healthy,
nutritious foods or by other means. DHHS encourages community efforts
to improve the coordination and integration of health and social
services for all low-income families, and to identify opportunities for
collaborating with other programs and services for this population.
Such collaboration can increase a community's capacity to leverage
resources and promote an integrated approach to health and nutrition
through existing programs and services.
Projects funded under this program must focus on one or more
legislatively-mandated program activities: (a) Coordination of private
and public food assistance resources, wherever the grant recipient
involved determines such coordination to be inadequate, to better serve
low-income populations; (b) assistance to low-income communities in
identifying potential sponsors of child nutrition programs and
initiating such programs in unserved or underserved areas; and (c)
development of innovative approaches at the state and local level to
meet the nutrition needs of low-income individuals.
Additionally, in carrying out such activities, projects funded
under this program should (1) be designed and intended to provide
nutrition benefits, including those which incorporate the benefits of
disease prevention, to a targeted low-income group of people; (2)
provide outreach and public education to inform eligible low-income
individuals and families of other nutritional services available to
them under the various Federally-assisted programs; (3) carry out
targeted communications and social marketing to improve dietary
behavior and increase program participation among eligible low-income
populations. Populations to be targeted can include displaced workers,
elderly people, children, and the working poor, and (4) consult with
and/or inform local officials that administer other food programs such
as W.I.C. and Food Stamps, where applicable, to ensure effective
coordination which can jointly target services to increase their
effectiveness. Such consultation may include involving these offices in
planning grant applications.
The OCS views this program as a capacity-building program, rather
than a food delivery program. Applications proposing to use OCS funds
solely to purchase food for low-income individuals may be considered
non-responsive and be returned to the applicant without further review.
Mobilization of Resources
There is no match requirement for the Community Food and Nutrition
Program. However, OCS would like to mobilize as many resources as
possible to enhance projects funded under the CFNP. OCS supports and
encourages applications submitted by applicants whose programs will
leverage other resources, either cash or third party in-kind.
Administrative Costs/Indirect Costs
There is no predetermined administrative cost ceiling for projects
funded under this program. Indirect costs consistent with approved
indirect
[[Page 17682]]
cost rate agreements are allowable. Applicants should enclose a copy of
the current approved rate agreement. However, it should be understood
that indirect costs are part of, and not in addition to, the amount of
funds awarded in the subject grant.
Multiple Submittals
There is no limit to the number of applications that can be
submitted by an eligible applicant as long as each application is for a
different project. However, no applicant will receive more than one
grant.
Repeat Grantee
Applicants receiving OCS funds for CFNP projects completed within
the last five (5) years must submit with the application an abstract
for each such project. The abstract should include the applicant's
name, address, CFNP grant number and amount, the title of the project,
and a summary of accomplishments. An application that does not include
an abstract for each project previously funded may be considered non-
responsive and be returned to the applicant without further review.
Priority Area:
There is one Program Priority Area for Fiscal Year 2004: Priority
Area 1.0--General Projects, under which OCS will accept applications as
described below.
Priority Area 1.0--General Projects
The application should describe the target area and population to
be served and discuss the nature and extent of the problem to be
solved. The application must contain a detailed and specific work
program that is sound and feasible. Projects funded under this
announcement must produce lasting and measurable results that fulfill
the purposes of this program as described above. The OCS grant funds,
in combination with private and/or other public resources, must be
targeted to low-income individuals and communities.
Applicants will certify in their submission that projects will only
serve the low-income population as stipulated in the DHHS Poverty
Income Guidelines. The guideline information is posted on the Internet
at the following address: http://www.hhs.aspe.gov/poverty/. Failure to
comply with the DHHS Poverty Income Guidelines may result in the
application not being considered for funding.
If an applicant proposes a project that will affect a property
listed in, or eligible for, inclusion in the National Register of
Historic Places, it must identify this property in the narrative and
explain how it has complied with the provisions of Section 106 of the
National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended. If there is any
question as to whether the property is listed in, or is eligible for
inclusion in, the National Register of Historic Places, applicant
should consult with the State Historic Preservation Officer. The
applicant should contact OCS early in the development of its
application for instructions regarding compliance with the Act and data
required to be submitted to DHHS.
When projects propose to mobilize or improve the coordination of
existing public and private food assistance resources, the guidelines
governing those resources apply. However, when projects propose to
provide direct assistance to beneficiaries through grants funded under
this program, those beneficiaries must fall within the official DHHS
Poverty Income Guidelines.
Applications proposing the use of grant funds to develop printed or
visual materials must contain convincing evidence that these materials
are not available from other sources. The OCS will not provide funding
for such items if justification is not sufficient. Approval of any
films or visual presentations proposed by applicants approved for
funding will be made part of the grant award. When material outlays for
equipment (audio and visual) are requested, specific evidence must be
presented that there is a definite programmatic connection between the
equipment (audio and visual) usage and the outreach requirements
described in the Program Purpose, Scope and Focus section of this
announcement.
II. Award Information
Funding Instrument Type: Service Grant.
Anticipated Total Priority Area Funding: $2,400,000.
Anticipated Number of Awards: 48-52.
Ceiling on Amount of Individual Awards: $50,000.
An application that exceeds $50,000 will be considered ``non-
responsive'' and be returned to the applicant without further review.
Floor of Individual Award Amounts: None.
Average Projected Award Amount: $50,000.
Project Period for Grants: 12 Months.
III. Eligibility Information
1. Eligible Applicants
Nonprofits having a 501 (c) (3) status with the IRS, other than
institutions of higher education Nonprofits that do not have a 501 (c)
(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education
Additional Information on Eligibility
Eligible applicants are public and private nonprofit agencies
including organizations benefiting Indians and migrant and seasonal
farmworkers with a demonstrated ability to successfully develop and
implement programs and activities similar to those enumerated in the
announcement. Faith-based organizations and community-based
organizations are eligible to apply for these Community Food and
Nutrition Program grants. Any non-profit organization submitting an
application must submit proof of its non-profit status in its
application at the time of submission.
Proof of non-profit status is any one of the following:
(a) A reference to the applicant organization's listing in the
Internal Revenue Service's (IRS) most recent list of tax-exempt
organizations described in the IRS code.
(b) A copy of a currently valid IRS tax exemption certificate.
(c) A statement from a State taxing body, State Attorney General,
or other appropriate State official certifying that the applicant
organization has a non-profit status and that none of the net earnings
accrue to any private shareholders or individuals.
(d) A certified copy of the organization's certificate of
incorporation or similar document that clearly establishes non-profit
status.
(e) Any of the items in the subparagraphs immediately above for a
State or national parent organization and a statement signed by the
parent organization that the applicant organization is a local non-
profit affiliate.
The Office of Community Services encourages eligible applicants
with programs addressing obesity to submit applications. Eligible
applicants with programs benefiting Native Americans and migrant or
seasonal farm workers are also encouraged to submit applications.
Faith-based and community-based organizations reaching underserved
populations are also encouraged to apply.
Private non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with
their applications the survey located under ``Grant Related Documents
and Forms'' titled ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant Applicants''
at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
[[Page 17683]]
2. Cost Sharing or Matching
Cost sharing or matching funds are not required for applications
submitted under this program announcement.
3. Other
All applicants must have a Dun & Bradstreet Number. On June 27,
2003, the Office of Management and Budget published in the Federal
Register a new Federal policy applicable to all Federal grant
applicants. The policy requires all Federal grant applicants to provide
a Dun & Bradstreet Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number when
applying for Federal grants or cooperative agreements on or after
October 1, 2003. The DUNS number will be required whether an applicant
is submitting a paper application or using the government-wide
electronic portal (http://www.Grants.gov). A DUNS number will be
required for every application for a new award or renewal/continuation
of an award, including applications or plans under formula, entitlement
and block grant programs, submitted on or after October 1, 2003.
Please ensure that your organization has a DUNS number. You may
acquire a DUNS number at no cost by calling the dedicated toll-free
DUNS number request line on 1-866-705-5711 or you may request a number
on-line at http://www.dnb.com.
IV. Application and Submission Information
1. Address to Request Application Package
Catherine Rivers, Administration for Children and Families, Office
of Community Services' Operations Center, 1815 Fort Myer Drive, Suite
300, Arlington, Virginia 22209, Email: OCS@lcgnet.com Attention:
Catherine Rivers, Telephone: 1-800-281-9519.
2. Content and Form of Application Submission
1. Application Content
An original and two copies of each application are required. Each
application must include the following components:
1. Table of Contents.
2. Abstract of the Proposed Project--very brief, not to exceed 250
words, that would be suitable for use in an announcement that the
application has been selected for a grant award and which identifies
the type of project, the target population and the major elements of
the work plan.
3. Completed Standard Form 424--that has been signed by an Official
of the organization applying for the grant who has authority to
obligate the organization legally.
4. Standard Form 424A--Budget Information-Non-Construction
Programs.
5. Narrative Budget Justification--for each object class category
required under Section B, Standard Form 424A. Applicants have the
option of omitting from the application copies (not the original)
specific salary rates or amounts for individuals specified in the
application budget.
6. Project Narrative--A narrative that addresses issues described
in the ``Application Review Information'' section of this announcement.
2. Application Format
Submit application materials on white 8\1/2\ x 11 inch paper only.
Do not use colored, oversized or folded materials.
Please do not include organizational brochures or other promotional
materials, slides, films, clips, etc.
The font size may be no smaller than 12 pitch and the margins must
be at least one inch on all sides.
Number all application pages sequentially throughout the package,
beginning with the abstract of the proposed project as page number one.
Please present application materials either in loose-leaf notebooks
or in folders with pages two-hole punched at the top center and
fastened separately with a slide paper fastener.
3. Page Limitation
The application package including sections for the Table of
Contents, Project Abstract, Project and Budget Narratives must not
exceed 30 pages. The page limitation does not include the following
attachments and appendices: Standard Forms for Assurances,
Certifications, Disclosures and appendices. The page limitation also
does not apply to any supplemental documents as required in this
announcement.
4. Required Standard Forms
Applicants requesting financial assistance for a non-construction
project must sign and return Standard Form 424B, Assurances: Non-
Construction Programs with their applications.
Applicants must provide a Certification Regarding Lobbying. Prior
to receiving an award in excess of $100,000, applicants shall furnish
an executed copy of the lobbying certification. Applicants must sign
and return the certification with their application.
Applicants must make the appropriate certification of their
compliance with the requirements of the Pro-Children Act of 1994 as
outlined in Certification Regarding Environmental Tobacco Smoke.
3. Submission Date and Times
The closing time and date for receipt of applications is 4:30 p.m.
Eastern Standarad Time (EST) on June 4, 2004. Mailed or hand carried
applications received after 4:30 p.m. on the closing date will be
classified as late.
Deadline: Mailed applications shall be considered as meeting an
announced deadline if they are received on or before the deadline time
and date at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,
Administration for Children and Families, Office of Community Services'
Operations Center, 1815 Fort Myer Drive, Suite 300, Arlington, Virginia
22209 Attention: Barbara Ziegler-Johnson. Applicants are responsible
for mailing applications well in advance, when using all mail services,
to ensure that the applications are received on or before the deadline
time and date.
Applications hand carried by applicants, applicant couriers, other
representatives of the applicant, or by overnight/express mail couriers
shall be considered as meeting an announced deadline if they are
received on or before the deadline date, between the hours of 8 a.m.
and 4:30 p.m., EST, at the U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services, Administration for Children and Families, Office of Community
Services' Operations Center, 1815 Fort Myer Drive, Suite 300,
Arlington, Virginia 22209 Attention: Barbara Ziegler-Johnson between
Monday and Friday (excluding Federal holidays). This address must
appear on the envelope/package containing the application with the
note: ``Attention: Barbara Ziegler-Johnson''. Applicants are cautioned
that express/overnight mail services do not always deliver as agreed.
Late applications: Applications which do not meet the criteria
above are considered late applications. ACF shall notify each late
applicant that its application will not be considered in the current
competition.
Extension of deadlines: ACF may extend application deadlines when
circumstances such as acts of God (floods, hurricanes, etc.) occur, or
when there are widespread disruptions of mails service. Determinations
to extend or waive deadline requirements rest with the Chief Grants
Management Officer.
Pre-applications or letters of intent will not be accepted.
[[Page 17684]]
Required Forms
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What to submit Required content Required form or format When to submit
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Table of Contents.................... As described above..... Consistent with By application due
guidance in date.
``Application Format''
section of this
announcement.
Abstract of Proposed Project......... Brief abstract that Consistent with Do.
identifies the type of guidance in
project, the target ``Application Format''
population and the section of this
major elements of the announcement.
proposed project.
Completed Standard Form 424.......... As described above and May be found on http:// Do.
per required form. http://www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs/ofs/forms.htm.
Completed Standard Form 424A......... As described above and May be found on http:// Do.
per required form. http://www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs/ofs/forms.htm.
Narrative Budget Justification....... As described above..... Consistent with Do.
guidance in
``Application Format''
section of this
announcement.
Project Narrative.................... A narrative that Consistent with Do.
addresses issues guidance in
described in the ``Application Format''
``Application Review section of this
Information'' section announcement.
of this announcement.
Completed Standard Form 424B......... As described above and May be found on http:// Do.
per required form. http://www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs/ofs/forms.htm.
Certification Regarding Lobbying..... As described above and May be found on http:// Do.
per required form. http://www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs/ofs/forms.htm.
Certification Regarding Environmental As described above and May be found on http:// Do.
Tobacco Smoke. per required form. http://www.acf.hhs.gov/
programs/ofs/forms.htm.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Additional Forms:
Private-non-profit organizations may submit with their applications
the additional survey located under ``Grant Related Documents and
Forms'' titled ``Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant Applicants'' for
Applicants''.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Survey for Private, Non-Profit Grant As described above and May be found on http:// By application due
Applicants. per required form. http://www.acf.hhs.gov/ date.
programs/ofs/forms.htm.
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4. Intergovernmental Review
State Single Point of Contact (SPOC)
This program is covered under Executive Order 12372,
``Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs,'' and 45 CFR Part 100,
``Intergovernmental Review of Department of Health and Human Services
Programs and Activities.'' Under the Order, States may design their own
processes for reviewing and commenting on proposed Federal assistance
under covered programs. As of October 1, 2003, the following
jurisdictions have elected not to participate in the Executive Order
process. Applicants from these jurisdictions or for projects
administered by federally-recognized Indian Tribes need take no action
in regard to E.O. 12372:
All States and Territories except Alabama, Alaska, Arizona,
Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana,
Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon,
Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, Washington,
Wyoming and Palau have elected to participate in the Executive Order
process and have established Single Points of Contact (SPOCs).
Applicants from these twenty-five jurisdictions need take no action.
Although the jurisdictions listed above no longer participate in
the process, entities which have met the eligibility requirements of
the program are still eligible to apply for a grant even if a State,
Territory, Commonwealth, etc. does not have a SPOC. All remaining
jurisdictions participate in the Executive Order process and have
established SPOCs. Applicants from participating jurisdictions should
contact their SPOCs as soon as possible to alert them of the
prospective applications and receive instructions. Applicants must
submit any required material to the SPOCs as soon as possible so that
the program office can obtain and review SPOC comments as part of the
award process. The applicant must submit all required materials, if
any, to the SPOC and indicate the date of this submittal (or the date
of contact if no submittal is required) on the Standard Form 424, item
16a. Under 45 CFR 100.8(a)(2), a SPOC has 60 days from the application
deadline to comment on proposed new or competing continuation awards.
SPOCs are encouraged to eliminate the submission of routine
endorsements as official recommendations. Additionally, SPOCs are
requested to clearly differentiate between mere advisory comments and
those official State process recommendations which may trigger the
``accommodate or explain'' rule.
When comments are submitted directly to ACF, they should be
addressed to: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration
for Children and Families, Division of Discretionary Grants, 370
L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Washington, DC 20447.
[[Page 17685]]
A list of the Single Points of Contact for each State and Territory
is included with the application materials for this announcement.
5. Funding Restrictions
Signed SF-424, SF-424A, and SF-424B
The application must contain a signed Standard Form 424 Application
for Federal Assistance ``SF-424'', a Standard Form 424-A Budget
Information ``SF-424A'' and signed Standard Form 424B Assurance--Non-
Construction Programs ``SF-424B'' completed according to instructions
provided in this Program Announcement.
Proof of Non-Profit Status
The application must contain documentation of the applicant's tax-
exempt status as indicated in the ``Additional Information on
Eligibility'' section of this announcement.
Project Narrative
The application must include a project narrative that meets
requirements set forth in this announcement.
Capacity-Building Program
The OCS views this program as a capacity-building program, rather
than a food delivery program. Applications proposing to use OCS funds
solely to purchase food for low-income individuals may be considered
non-responsive and be returned to the applicant without further review.
Program Beneficiaries
Projects proposed for funding under this announcement must result
in direct benefits targeted toward low-income people as defined in the
most recent annual update of the Poverty Income Guidelines published by
DHHS. The guideline information is posted on the Internet at the
following address: http://www.hhs.aspe.gov/poverty/. Annual revisions
of these guidelines are normally published in the Federal Register in
February or early March of each year and are applicable to projects
being implemented at the time of publication. Grantees will be required
to apply the most recent guidelines throughout the project period. The
Federal Register may be obtained from public libraries, Congressional
offices, or by writing the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402. The Federal Register is also
available on the Internet through GPO Access at the following web
address: http://www.access.gpo.gov/su_docs/aces/aces140.html.
No other government agency or privately defined poverty guidelines
are applicable to determining low-income eligibility for this OCS
program.
Sub-Contracting or Delegating Projects
OCS will not fund any project where the role of the applicant is
primarily to serve as a conduit for funds to organizations other than
the applicant. The applicant must have a substantive role in the
implementation of the project for which funding is requested. This
prohibition does not bar the making of sub-grants or sub-contracting
for specific services or activities needed to conduct the project.
Number of Projects in Application
Each application may include only one proposed project.
Applications not complying with this requirement will be considered
``non-responsive'' and be returned to the applicant without further
review.
Page Limitation
The application package including sections for the Table of
Contents, Project Abstract, Project and Budget Narratives must not
exceed 30 pages. The page limitation does not include the following
attachments and appendices: Standard Forms for Assurances,
Certifications, Disclosures and appendices. The page limitation also
does not apply to any supplemental documents as required in this
announcement
Maximum Grant Amount
An application that exceeds $50,000--the ceiling on the amount of
an individual award--will be considered ``non-responsive'' and be
returned to the applicant without further review.
Repeat Grantee
Applicants receiving OCS funds for CFNP projects completed within
the last five (5) years must submit with the application an abstract
for each such project. The abstract should include the applicant's
name, address, CFNP grant number and amount, the title of the project,
and a summary of accomplishments. An application that does not include
an abstract for each project previously funded may be considered non-
responsive and be returned to the applicant without further review.
6. Other Submission Requirements
Electronic Copy Address Submission
You may submit your application to us in either electronic or paper
format. To submit an application electronically, please use the http://www.Grants.gov
apply site. If you use Grants.gov, you will be able to
download a copy of the application package, complete it off-line, and
then upload and submit the application via the Grants.gov site. You may
not e-mail an electronic copy of a grant application to us.
Please note the following if you plan to submit your application
electronically via Grants.gov
Electronic submission is voluntary.
When you enter the Grants.gov site, you will
find information about submitting an application electronically through
the site, as well as the hours of operation. We strongly recommend that
you do not wait until the application deadline date to begin the
application process through Grants.gov.
To use Grants.gov, you, as the applicant, must
have a DUNS Number and register in the Central Contractor Registry
(CCR). You should allow a minimum of five days to complete the CCR
registration.
You will not receive additional point value
because you submit a grant application in electronic format, nor will
we penalize you if you submit an application in paper format.
You may submit all documents electronically,
including all information typically included on the SF 424 and all
necessary assurances and certifications.
Your application must comply with any page
limitation requirements described in this program announcement.
After you electronically submit your
application, you will receive an automatic acknowledgement from
Grants.gov that contains a Grants.gov tracking number. The
Administration for Children and Families will retrieve your application
from Grants.gov.
We may request that you provide original
signatures on forms at a later date.
You may access the electronic application for
this program on http://www.Grants.gov.
You must search for the downloadable application
package by the CFDA number (93.571).
V. Application Review Information
1. Criteria
Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (Public Law 104-13): Under the
Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, Pub. L. 104-13, the Department is
required to submit to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for
review and approval of any reporting and record keeping requirements in
regulations including program announcements. This program announcement
does not contain
[[Page 17686]]
information collection requirements beyond those approved for ACF grant
applications under the Program Narrative Statement by OMB No. 0970-
0139.
Public reporting burden for this collection is estimated to average
25 hours per response, including the time for reviewing instructions,
gathering and maintaining the data needed and reviewing the collection
of information. The project description is approved under OMB control
0970-0139 which expires 3/31/04.
An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required
to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a
currently valid OMB control number.
Purpose
The project description provides a major means by which an
application is evaluated and ranked to compete with other applications
for available assistance. The project description should be concise and
complete and should address the activity for which Federal funds are
being requested. Supporting documents should be included where they can
present information clearly and succinctly. In preparing your project
description, all information requested through each specific evaluation
criteria should be provided. Awarding offices use this and other
information in making their funding recommendations. It is important,
therefore, that this information be included in the application.
Introduction
Applicants required to submit a full project description shall
prepare the project description statement in accordance with the
following instructions and the specified evaluation criteria. The
instructions give a broad overview of what your project description
should include while the evaluation criteria expands and clarifies more
program-specific information that is needed.
Project Summary/Abstract
Provide a summary of the project description (a page or less) with
reference to the funding request.
Objectives and Need for Assistance
Clearly identify the physical, economic, social, financial,
institutional, and/or other problem(s) requiring a solution. The need
for assistance must be demonstrated and the principal and subordinate
objectives of the project must be clearly stated; supporting
documentation, such as letters of support and testimonials from
concerned interests other than the applicant, may be included. Any
relevant data based on planning studies should be included or referred
to in the endnotes/footnotes. Incorporate demographic data and
participant/beneficiary information, as needed. In developing the
project description, the applicant may volunteer or be requested to
provide information on the total range of projects currently being
conducted and supported (or to be initiated), some of which may be
outside the scope of the program announcement.
Results or Benefits Expected
Identify the results and benefits to be derived. For example,
describe the population to be served by the program and the number of
new jobs that will be targeted to the target population. Explain how
the project will reach the targeted population, how it will benefit
participants including how it will support individuals to become more
economically self-sufficient.
Approach
Outline a plan of action which describes the scope and detail of
how the proposed work will be accomplished. Account for all functions
or activities identified in the application. Cite factors which might
accelerate or decelerate the work and state your reason for taking the
proposed approach rather than others. Describe any unusual features of
the project such as design or technological innovations, reductions in
cost or time, or extraordinary social and community involvement.
Provide quantitative monthly or quarterly projections of the
accomplishments to be achieved for each function or activity in such
terms as the number of people to be served and the number of activities
accomplished. When accomplishments cannot be quantified by activity or
function, list them in chronological order to show the schedule of
accomplishments and their target dates. If any data is to be collected,
maintained, and/or disseminated, clearance may be required from the
U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB). This clearance pertains to
any ``collection of information that is conducted or sponsored by
ACF.''
List organizations, cooperating entities, consultants, or other key
individuals who will work on the project along with a short description
of the nature of their effort or contribution.
Organizational Profiles
Provide information on the applicant organization(s) and
cooperating partners such as organizational charts, financial
statements, audit reports or statements from CPAs/Licensed Public
Accountants, Employer Identification Numbers, names of bond carriers,
contact persons and telephone numbers, child care licenses and other
documentation of professional accreditation, information on compliance
with Federal/State/local government standards, documentation of
experience in the program area, and other pertinent information. Any
non-profit organization submitting an application must submit proof of
its non-profit status in its application at the time of submission.
The non-profit agency can accomplish this by providing a copy of
the applicant's listing in the Internal Revenue Service's (IRS) most
recent list of tax-exempt organizations described in Section 501(c)(3)
of the IRS code, or by providing a copy of the currently valid IRS tax
exemption certificate, or by providing a copy of the articles of
incorporation bearing the seal of the State in which the corporation or
association is domiciled.
Budget and Budget Justification
Provide line item detail and detailed calculations for each budget
object class identified on the Budget Information form. Detailed
calculations must include estimation methods, quantities, unit costs,
and other similar quantitative detail sufficient for the calculation to
be duplicated. The detailed budget must also include a breakout by the
funding sources identified in Block 15 of the SF-424.
Provide a narrative budget justification that describes how the
categorical costs are derived. Discuss the necessity, reasonableness,
and allocability of the proposed costs.
Evaluation Criterion I. Results or Benefits Expected (Maximum: 30
points)
I(a) Improvement in Nutrition Services to Low-Income People (0-15
Points)
The application will be evaluated on the extent to which it
proposes to significantly improve or increase nutrition services to
low-income people and indicate how such improvements or increases are
quantified.
I(b) Promotional Health and Social Service Activities Included in
Nutrition Services (0-5 Points)
The application will be evaluated on the extent to which it
incorporates into
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the project awareness of health and social services activities for low-
income people along with nutritional services.
I(c) Commitment of Resources (0-5 Points)
The application will be evaluated on the extent to which it
indicates that the project will significantly leverage or mobilize
other community resources. These resources are detailed and quantified.
I(d) One Time Funding (0-5 Points)
The application will be evaluated on the extent to which it
demonstrates either that the project addresses problem(s) that can be
resolved by one-time OCS funding, or demonstrates that non-Federal
funding is available to continue the project without Federal support.
In addressing the above criterion, the application must include
quantitative data for items (a), (b), and (c), and discuss how the
beneficial impact relates to the relevant legislatively-mandated
program activities identified in the Program Purpose, Scope and Focus
section of this announcement, and the problems and/or needs described
under Criterion I.
Evaluation Criterion II. Approach (Maximum: 25 points)
II(a) Realistic Quarterly Time Lines (0-10 Points)
The application will be evaluated on the extent to which it
provides realistic quarterly projections of the activities to be
carried out including the projected number of beneficiaries to be
served each quarter.
II(b) Detailed Work Plan (0-15 Points)
The application will be evaluated on the extent to which it ensures
that activities are adequately described and appear reasonably likely
to achieve results which will have a desired impact on the identified
problems and/or needs. In addressing this criterion, the application
should address the basic criteria and other mandated activities found
in Parts A and B and should include:
(1) Project priorities, and rationale for selecting them, which
relate to the specific nutritional problem(s) and/or need(s) of the
target population identified under Criterion I;
(2) Goals and objectives that speak to the problem(s) and/or
need(s); and
(3) Project activities that, if successfully carried out, can
reasonably be expected to result in achieving these goals and
objectives.
Evaluation Criterion III. Organizational Profiles (Maximum: 15 points)
III(a) Organizational Experience in Program Area (0-5 Points)
The application will be evaluated on the extent to which it
documents the organization's capability and relevant experience in
developing and operating programs that deal with poverty problems
similar to those to be addressed by the proposed project. Documentation
provided should indicate that projects previously undertaken have been
relevant and effective and have provided permanent benefits to the low-
income population. Organizations proposing training and technical
assistance should have detailed competence in the program area and
expertise in training and technical assistance. If applicable,
information provided in these applications should also address related
achievements and competence of each cooperating or sponsoring
organization.
III(b) Management History (0-5 Points)
The application will be evaluated on the extent to which it
demonstrates the applicant's ability to implement sound and effective
management practices. If the applicant has been a recipient of other
Federal or other governmental grants, it must also document their
compliance with financial and program progress reporting and audit
requirements. Such documentation may be in the form of references to
any available audit or progress reports and should be accompanied by a
statement from a Certified or Licensed Public Accountant as to the
sufficiency of the applicant's financial management system to protect
adequately any Federal funds awarded under the application submitted.
III(c) Staff Skills, Resources and Responsibilities (0-5 Points)
The application will be evaluated on the extent to which it
adequately describes the experience and skills of the proposed Project
Director, showing that the individual is not only well qualified, but
that his/her professional capabilities are relevant to successfully
implement the project. If the key staff person has not yet been
identified, the application should contain a comprehensive position
description indicating that the responsibilities to be assigned to the
Project Director are relevant to successfully implement the project.
The application must indicate that it has adequate facilities and
resources (i.e. space and equipment) to carry out the work plan
successfully.
In addressing the above criterion, the application must clearly
show that sufficient time of the Project Director and other senior
staff will be budgeted to assure timely project implementation and
oversight and that the assigned responsibilities of the staff are
appropriate to the tasks identified.
Evaluation Criterion IV. Objectives and Need for Assistance (Maximum:
10 points)
IV(a) Description of Target Population. (0-4 Points)
The application will be evaluated on the extent to which it
describes the target area and population to be served, including
specific details on any minority population(s) to be served.
IV(b) Analysis of Needs/Priorities (0-6 Points)
The application will be evaluated on the extent to which it
discusses the nature and extent of the problem(s) and/or need(s),
including specific information on minority population(s).
Evaluation Criterion V. Approach: Coordination/Services Integration
(Maximum: 10 Points)
V(a) Coordinated Community-Based Planning (0-5 Points)
The application will be evaluated on the extent to which it
demonstrates evidence of coordinated community-based planning in its
development, including strategies in the work program to collaborate
with other locally-funded Federal programs (such as DHHS health and
social services and USDA Food and Consumer Service programs) in ways
that will eliminate duplication and will, for example: (a) Unite
funding streams at the local level to increase program outreach and
effectiveness; (b) facilitate access to other needed social services by
coordinating and simplifying intake and eligibility certification
processes for clients; or (c) bring project participants into direct
interaction with holistic family development resources in the community
where needed.
V(b) Community Empowerment Consideration (0-5 Points)
Special consideration will be given to applications located in
areas characterized by poverty and other indicators of socio-economic
distress such as a poverty rate of at least 20 percent, designation as
an Empowerment Zone or Enterprise Community, high levels of
unemployment, and high levels of incidences of violence, gang activity,
crime, or drug use. The application will be evaluated on the extent to
which it
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documents involvement in the preparation and planned implementation of
a comprehensive community-based strategic plan to achieve both economic
and human development in an integrated manner. If the applicant is
receiving funds from the State for community food and nutrition
activities, the application should address how the funds are being
utilized, and how they will be coordinated with the proposed project to
maximize the effectiveness of both. If State funds are being used in
the project for which OCS funds are being requested, the application
should specifically describe their usage.
Evaluation Criterion VI. Budget and Budget Justification (Maximum: 10
Points)
VI(a) Budget and Budget Justification (0-10 Points)
Every application must include a Budget Justification, placed after
the budget forms SF-424 and 424A, explaining the sources and uses of
project funds. The budget is adequate and administrative costs are
appropriate to the services proposed.
2. Review and Selection Process
Initial OCS Screening
Each application submitted to OCS will be screened to determine
whether it was received by the closing date and time.
Applications received by the closing date and time will be screened
for completeness and conformity with the following requirements. Only
complete applications that meet the requirements listed below will be
reviewed and evaluated competitively. Other applications will be
returned to the applicants with a notation that they were unacceptable
and will not be reviewed.
All applications must comply with the following requirements except
as noted:
(a) The application must contain a signed Standard Form 424
Application for Federal Assistance ``SF-424'', a Standard Form 424-A
Budget Information ``SF-424A'' and signed Standard Form 424B
Assurance--Non-Construction Programs ``SF-424B'' completed according to
instructions provided in this Program Announcement. The forms SF-424
and the SF-424B must be signed by an official of the organization
applying for the grant who has authority to obligate the organization
legally. The applicant's legal name as required on the SF-424 (Item 5)
must match that listed as corresponding to the Employer Identification
Number (Item 6);
(b) The application must include a project narrative that meets
requirements set for in this announcement.
(c) The application must contain documentation of the applicant's
tax-exempt status as indicated in the ``Additional Information on
Eligibility'' section of this announcement.
(d) The application package including sections for the Table of
Contents, Project Abstract, Project and Budget Narratives must not
exceed 30 pages. The page limitation does not include the following
attachments and appendices: Standard Forms for Assurances,
Certifications, Disclosures and appendices. The page limitation also
does not apply to any supplemental documents as required in this
announcement. An application package that exceeds the page limitation
will be considered ``non-responsive'' and be returned to the applicant
without further review.
(e) An application that exceeds $50,000--the ceiling on the amount
of an individual award--will be considered ``non-responsive'' and be
returned to the applicant without further review.
(f) Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with
their applications the optional survey located under ``Grants Manuals &
Forms'' at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofs/forms.htm.
OCS Evaluation of Applications
Applications that pass the initial OCS screening will be reviewed
and rated by a panel based on the program elements and review criteria
presented in relevant sections of this program announcement.
The review criteria are designed to enable the review panel to
assess the quality of a proposed project and determine the likelihood
of its success. The criteria are closely related to each other and are
considered as a whole in judging the overall quality of an application.
The review panel awards points only to applications that are responsive
to the program elements and relevant review criteria within the context
of this program announcement.
The OCS Director and program staff use the reviewer scores when
considering competing applications. Reviewer scores will weigh heavily
in funding decisions, but will not be the only factors considered.
Applications generally will be considered in order of the average
scores assigned by the review panel. Because other important factors
are taken into consideration, highly ranked applications are not
guaranteed funding. These other considerations include, for example:
the timely and proper completion by the applicant of projects funded
with OCS funds granted in the last five (5) years; comments of
reviewers and government officials; staff evaluation and input; amount
and duration of the grant requested and the proposed project's
consistency and harmony with OCS goals and policy; geographic
distribution of applications; previous program performance of
applicants; compliance with grant terms under previous HHS grants,
including the actual dedication to program of mobilized resources as
set forth in project applications; audit reports; investigative
reports; and applicant's progress in resolving any final audit
disallowance on previous OCS or other Federal agency grants.
3. Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates: 90 days after the due
date of applications.
VI. Award Administration Information
1. Award Notices: Successful applicants will be notified through
the issuance of a Financial Assistance Award notice that sets forth the
amount of funds granted, the terms and conditions of the grant award,
the effective date of the award, the budget period for which initial
support is given, and the total project period for which support is
provided. The Financial Assistance Award will be signed by a Grants
Officer and transmitted via postal mail. Unsuccessful applicants will
be notified in writing by ACF.
2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements: 45 CFR Part 74.
Special Terms and Conditions of Awards: None.
3. Reporting Requirements
Programmatic Reports: Semi-annually and a final report is due 90
days after the end of the grant period.
Financial Reports: Semi-annually and a final report is due 90 days
after the end of the grant period.
Special Reporting Requirements: None.
VII. Agency Contacts
Program Office Contact: Catherine Rivers, Administration for
Children and Families, Office of Community Services' Operations Center,
1815 Fort Myer Drive, Suite 300, Arlington, Virginia 22209, Email:
OCS@lcgnet.com Attention: Catherine Rivers, Telephone: 1-800-281-9519.
Grants Management Office Contact: Barbara Ziegler-Johnson, Office
of Grants Management, Division of
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Discretionary Grants, 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW., Aerospace Building,
Washington, DC 20447-0002. Email: OCS@lcgnet.com. Telephone: 1-800-281-
9519.
VIII. Other Information
Additional Information about this program and its purpose can be
located on the following Web site: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ocs.
Dated: March 30, 2004.
Clarence H. Carter,
Director, Office of Community Services.
[FR Doc. 04-7609 Filed 4-2-04; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4184-01-P