Do the Charitable Choice laws mean that faith-based organizations can apply for funds only from the four Charitable Choice Federal programs specified in the law?

Answer: 

No. The Charitable Choice laws merely set out clear guidelines for government funding of faith-based organizations in four specific programs. However, all Federal programs that permit nonprofit organizations to apply for funds are also open to faith-based organizations. The Faith-Based and Community Initiative is designed to make sure that the playing field is level for all groups that apply for funding from any Federal program.

Learn More: 

• What is Charitable Choice?
• Guidance to Faith-Based and Community Organizations on Partnering with the Federal Government(published by the White House Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives 2002) http://www.whitehouse.gov/government/fbci/guidance_document.pdf
• HHS Final Charitable Choice Regulations 
• Center for Faith Based and Community Initiatives.

Updated: 4/28/2008