Executive Summary:

The Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Office of Child Support Enforcement (OCSE), invites applications from State Title IV-D agencies for Fiscal Year (FY) 2008 funding of demonstration activities intended to add to the knowledge and to promote the objectives of the Child Support Enforcement Program under Section 1115 and Title IV-D of the Social Security Act.  Only State Title IV-D agencies or the umbrella agencies of which they are a part are eligible to apply for these grants. 

I. FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION

Legislative Authority

Section 1115 of the Social Security Act [42 U.S.C.1315] provides funds for experimental, pilot, or demonstration projects that are likely to assist in promoting the objectives of Part D of Title IV.  The projects:

(1) Must be designed to improve the financial well-being of children or otherwise improve the operation of the child support program; and

(2) May not permit modifications in the child support program that would have the effect of disadvantaging children in need of support.

Funding Opportunity Description

OCSE is looking for innovative projects that promote some of the basic themes of the national strategic plan in that child support should be a reliable source of income for families, and that child support agencies should use early prevention strategies to help build a culture of compliance in which parents will support their children voluntarily and reliably.  Although innovation is preferred, OCSE will consider funding projects that have been successfully implemented in other States, but have not been evaluated or measured for their effectiveness.  Applicants are encouraged to view materials such as Action Transmittals, Information Memoranda, Dear Colleague Letters, recent publications and annual reports posted on the OCSE website to help formulate their proposals: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cse/.

OCSE invites applications for partnerships with entities such as courts and/or tribunals and faith-based and community organizations, which have the ability to address the needs of harder-to-serve populations, such as low-income noncustodial parents and culturally diverse populations. Refer to Section V, below, for additional guidance.  Collaborative efforts that focus on a particular ethnicity must be inclusive in nature; that is, outreach and eligibility for services cannot be limited to a particular ethnic or cultural group.

Throughout the priorities, OCSE notes that faith-based and community organizations may serve as partners to the State agency that is awarded a grant under this announcement.  Organizations and their faith-based community partners shall not use direct Federal grants or contracts under the OCSE Section 1115 grants to support inherently religious activities such as religious instruction, worship, or proselytization.  Therefore, an organization must take steps to separate, in time or location, their inherently religious activities from the OCSE-funded services.  Some of the ways organizations may accomplish this include, but are not limited to, promoting only the Federally funded program in materials, Web sites, services, or commercials purchased with any portion of the Federal funds.  Further, participation in such activity by individuals receiving services must be voluntary.

A faith-based organization receiving U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) funds retains its independence from Federal, State, and local governments, and may continue to carry out its mission, including the definition, practice, and expression of its religious beliefs.  For example, a faith-based organization may use space in its facilities to provide secular programs or services funded with Federal funds without removing religious art, icons, scriptures, or other religious symbols.  In addition, a faith-based organization that receives Federal funds retains its authority over its internal governance, and it may retain religious terms in its organization's name, select its board members on a religious basis, and include religious preferences in its organization's mission statements and other governing documents in accordance with all OCSE program requirements, statutes, and other applicable requirement governing the conduct of HHS-funded activities. 

All grant awards are subject to the availability of appropriated funds.  The Section 1115 funds awarded can be used to reduce the State share of the total project costs.  Grantees must provide at least five percent of the total approved cost of the project. The Section 1115 funds, together with the 5% additional State funds, provides the 34% share that is required to obtain the regular 66% federal matching funds.  For the purposes of the demonstration project, the total expenditures will be treated as State expenditures under Title IV-D that will be reimbursed by the regular Federal match of 66 percent of expenditures for Title IV-D administrative activities.  Thus, the total approved cost of the project is the sum of the ACF grant award under Section 1115, regular Title IV-D Federal Financial Participation (FFP), and the State share.  Applicants must prepare a formal budget on the required forms, as listed in Section IV.3, below.  The proposed State five percent match must be identified on the budget forms. 

Section 1115(a)(1) of the Act allows the Secretary to waive a State plan requirement in section 454 and section 1115(a)(2)(A) allows the Secretary to treat certain unallowable expenditures as allowable State expenditures for purposes of the demonstration project.  The State must specifically request in its application any waiver of a State plan requirement or matching for an "unallowable" cost it is requesting for the project and explain how the waiver furthers the purposes of the project.

For this grant announcement, OCSE will not approve any waivers which will increase program costs, but will consider requests for waivers of State plan requirements, such as statewideness, which facilitate the conduct of the project or enable the State to accomplish the purposes of the project.

OCSE is interested in funding projects that ultimately can be implemented statewide and replicated in other States.  Applicants should, to the extent possible, identify how their project can benefit other IV-D agencies.  Additionally, OCSE is interested in projects that, if successful, can be sustained after the grant funding expires.

In FY08, OCSE is seeking applications in support of four priority areas:

Priority Area 1: Projects in Support of OCSE PAID Initiative (Project to Avoid Increasing Delinquencies)

Priority Area 2: Using Business Intelligence/Data Analysis to Improve Performance

Priority Area 3: Improved Child Support Results through Intensified Collaboration with Temporary Assistance for Needy Families

Priority Area 4: Child Support Outreach to Faith-Based and Community Organizations

Priority Area 1:

Projects in Support of OCSE PAID Initiative (Project to Avoid Increasing Delinquencies)

Description

On February 27, 2007, OCSE issued a Dear Colleague Letter (DCL-07-06) announcing a national initiative called PAID (Project to Avoid Increasing Delinquencies).  This initiative focuses on goal number four of the National Child Support Enforcement Strategic Plan: "All children in IV-D cases receive financial support from parents as ordered." Under this national initiative, OCSE is placing special emphasis on activities that result in increasing collections of current support and reducing arrears.  Examples of these activities include efforts that:

• Improve administration procedures
  
  
• Address root causes of nonpayment of support (e.g., by establishing appropriate orders, increasing employer compliance, conducting early intervention upon nonpayment, addressing under/un-employment of obligors, or dealing with incarceration and reentry issues, etc.).
  
  
• Increase use of data findings to formulate program and policy decisions (e.g., improving administrative procedures, designing and incorporating case stratification strategies, implementing new case management techniques or adopting arrears compromise policies).  

Under this priority, OCSE invites eligible entities to propose projects that support the PAID initiative goals. For information about PAID, please refer to OCSE DCL-07-06 and DCL-07-17 http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cse/pol/2007-dcl.html

OCSE will award 5 bonus points if the applicant has not been awarded a Section 1115 grant within the past five years.

II. AWARD INFORMATION

Explanation of Other:

Maximum Section 1115 Amount for Each Award under Priority Area 1:   OCSE will award a 36-month project period with three 12-month budget periods.  OCSE is providing a maximum of $100,000 for the first 12-month budget period, a maximum of $75,000 for the second 12-month budget period and $50,000 for the third 12-month budget period.

Awards under this announcement are subject to the availability of funds.

III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

1. Eligible Applicants:

• Others (See below)

Eligible applicants for these Section 1115 demonstration project grants are State (including the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands) Title IV-D or the umbrella agencies of the IV-D program.

Foreign entities are not eligible under this announcement.

2. Cost Sharing or Matching: Yes

Failure to provide the required cost sharing/matching amount will result in a disallowance of unmatched Federal funds.

All grant awards are subject to the availability of appropriated funds.  The Section 1115 funds awarded to each project will represent 29 percent of the total project costs.  Grantees must provide at least five percent of the total approved cost of the project. For the purposes of the demonstration project, the total expenditures will be treated as State expenditures under Title IV-D that will be reimbursed by the regular Federal match of 66 percent of expenditures for Title IV-D administrative activities.  The total approved cost of the project is the sum of the ACF grant award under Section 1115, regular Title IV-D Federal Financial Participation (FFP), and the State share.  Applicants must prepare a formal budget on the required forms, as listed in Section IV.3, below.  The proposed State five percent match must be identified on the budget forms.  Matching funds may be provided in cash (preferred) or through in-kind public (not private) sources.  

For example, to meet the match requirements in Priority One, a project with a total approved project cost of $344,827, requesting $100,000 in ACF funds, must provide a non-Federal share of at least $17,241 (five percent of the total approved budget cost of $344,827).

3. Other:

Disqualification Factors

IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION

1. Address to Request Application Package:

2. Content and Form of Application Submission:

The project description should include all the information requirements described in the specific evaluation criteria outlined in this program announcement under Part V. The applicant must clearly indicate in the project abstract the specific priority area for which he/she is applying.  This information is necessary in order that the application be judged according to the priority area description and in competition with other applications.  Applicants may submit different applications covering different priority areas or they may submit different applications for different projects under one priority area; however, they may not submit one application for the same project covering multiple priority areas. 

The length of the application, excluding the application forms, certifications, and resumes, should be no more than 20 pages double-spaced, using a 12-point font.  A page is a single-side of an 8 1/2" x 11" sheet of plain white paper.  (Applicants are requested not to send pamphlets, maps, brochures or other printed material along with their application as these are difficult to photocopy.  These materials, if submitted, will not be included in the review process.)  Each page of the application will be counted (excluding required forms, certifications and resumes) to determine the total length. If submitting electronically, the downloaded copy must meet the standards listed above. To facilitate the review of applications, applicants should address each requirement in the priority area description under the appropriate Section of the program narrative statement. The reviewers will determine the strengths and weaknesses of each application using each element of the evaluation criteria listed below, provide written comments, and assign numerical scores to each application. 

Each application must be submitted in accordance with the guidance provided below. 

a)      The application must be signed by an individual authorized to act for the applicant agency and to assume responsibility for the obligations imposed by terms and conditions of the grant award. 

b)      If more than one State's agency is involved in submitting a single application, one State agency must be identified as the applicant organization that will have legal responsibility for the grant.

c)      Guidance in completing the 424-A is listed below.

Section A--Budget Summary

• Line 1, Column a: enter "Section 1115
• Line 1, Column b: enter "93.564"
• Line 1, Column c: leave blank
• Line 1, Column d: leave blank
• Line 1, Column e: 1115 funds (29%) for first budget period.  A budget period is normally one year.
• Line 1, Column f: State share (5%) and Federal title IV-D (66%) amounts combined for first budget period
• Line 1, Column g:  e and f combined
• Lines 2-4: leave blank

Section B--Budget Categories

NOTE: Use first budget period amounts only

• Line 6, Column 1: Section 1115 grant amount (29%)
• Line 6, Column 2: State share amount (5%)
• Line 6, Column 3: Federal title IV-D amount (66%)
• Line 6, Column 4: leave this column blank
• Line 7: This is normally left blank.  If completed, keep this amount separate from totals in the line 5 above

Section C--Non-Federal Resources

• Line 8, Column a: enter "Section 1115"
• Line 8, Column b: enter State share amount (5%) for first budget period
• Line 8, Column c: leave blank
• Line 8, Column d: enter Federal title IV-D amount (66%) for first budget period
• Line 8, Column e: b and d combined

Section D--Forecasted Cash Needs

• Line 13: enter Section 1115 grant amount (29%) for first budget period
• Line 14: combine Federal title IV-D amount (66%) and State share amount (5%) for the first budget period

Section E--Budget Estimates of Federal Funds Needed for Balance of Project

NOTE:  Section E is for future funding.  Provide an estimate for subsequent budget periods of the project.  A budget period is normally one year.

• Line 16, Column a: enter "Section 1115"
• Line 16, Column b: enter Section 1115 grant amount (29%) for second budget period
• Line 16, Column c: enter Section 1115 grant amount (29%) for third budget period
• Line 16, Columns e and f: leave blank for three-year projects

Section F

NOTE: Leave this section blank  

Applicants may also refer to OCSE Web site for assistance in completing the 424-A: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cse/grants/resources/application_tools/

d)      In accordance with the general rule stated above under the heading TRAVEL, applicants should include funds in their budget for one trip to an ACF/OCSE conference or training session in Washington, DC, budgeting for two and a half days for up to two people.  If OCSE requests other visits, it will reimburse the grantee for them.

D-U-N-S Requirement

Forms, Assurances, and Certifications

3. Submission Dates and Times:

Due Date for Applications: 04/14/2008

Explanation of Due Dates

Receipt acknowledgement for application packages will not be provided to applicants who submit their package via mail, courier services, or by hand delivery.   Applicants will receive an electronic acknowledgement for applications that are submitted via http://www.Grants.gov.

Checklist

You may use the checklist below as a guide when preparing your application package.

4. Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs:

5. Funding Restrictions:

Sub-Contracting or Delegating Projects: OCSE will not fund projects 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-contracts for specific services or activities necessary to conduct the project.

Applicants should understand that OCSE will not award grants for demonstration projects that:

(a)     Duplicate automated data processing and information retrieval system requirements/enhancements and associated tasks that are specified in the Social Security Act; or

(b)     Cover costs for routine activities that would normally be reimbursed under the Child Support Enforcement (CSE) Program, e.g., adding staff positions to perform routine CSE tasks, or by other Federal funding sources.  Proposals and their accompanying budgets will be reviewed from this perspective.

6. Other Submission Requirements:

Submission by Mail

Hand Delivery

V. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

The Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (P.L. 104-13)

Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 40 hours per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, gathering and maintaining the data needed and reviewing the collection information.

The project description is approved under OMB control number 0970-0139, which expires 4/30/2010.

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.

1. Criteria:

Part I   THE PROJECT DESCRIPTION OVERVIEW

PURPOSE

GENERAL EXPECTATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS

Part II   GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR PREPARING A FULL PROJECT DESCRIPTION

INTRODUCTION

EVALUATION CRITERIA:

OBJECTIVES AND NEED FOR ASSISTANCE - 20 points

The applicant should demonstrate a thorough understanding and analysis of the problem(s) being addressed in the project, the need for assistance and the importance of addressing these problems in improving the effectiveness of the child support program.  The applicant should describe how the project will address this problem(s) through implementation of changes, enhancements and innovative efforts and specifically, how this project will improve program results.  The applicant should address one or more of the strategies or approaches described under the specific priority area for which they are applying (refer to Section I).   

The applicant should identify the key goals and objectives of the project; describe the conceptual framework of its approach to resolve the identified problem(s), and provide a rationale for taking this approach as opposed to others.

APPROACH - 20 points

A well thought-out and practical management and staffing plan is mandatory. The applicant should include a detailed management plan that includes timelines and discussion of major task activities. The main concern in this criterion is that the applicant should demonstrate a clear idea of the project's goals, objectives and tasks to be accomplished.  The plan to accomplish the goals and tasks should be set forth in a logical framework.  The plan should identify what tasks are required of any contractors and specify their relevant qualifications to perform these tasks. The plan should also identify what tasks will be provided by partner agencies/organizations and attach letters of commitment to the project from these entities.

Staff to be committed to the project (including supervisory and management staff) at the State and/or local levels must be identified by their role in the project along with their qualifications and areas of particular expertise.  In addition, for any technical expertise obtained through a contract or subgrant, the desired technical expertise and skills of proposed positions should be specified in detail.  The applicant should demonstrate that persons with the skills needed to operate the project are on board or can be obtained within a reasonable time.

RESULTS OR BENEFITS EXPECTED - 20 points

The applicant should identify the results and benefits expected to be derived from the project, the extent to which the expected results are consistent with the goals and objectives of the project, their contributions to policy and practice in promoting the objectives of the Title IV-D program listed in Section 451 of the Act, and the National Child Support Enforcement Strategic goal of children receiving the financial support from parents as ordered. 

EVALUATION - 20 points

BUDGET AND BUDGET JUSTIFICATION - 10 points

The applicant should propose reasonable project costs and allocate sufficient funds appropriately across activities to accomplish the objectives in a cost effective way, relative to the size of the caseload served and the project's impact/results to be achieved.

The applicant should describe the relationships between the proposed project and other Federally assisted work planned, anticipated or underway by the applicant.  The description of activities to be conducted under the grant must provide, for each person, detail of the level of person-hours of each position and their annual salary and the cost to this grant, and a delineation of the costs for the same categories listed in item six (Object Class Categories) of SF-424A.   Applicants may refer to OCSE Web site for guidance in completing the 424-A: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cse/grants/resources/application_tools/

In accordance with the general rule stated above under the heading TRAVEL, applicants should include funds in their budget for one trip to an OCSE conference or training session in Washington, DC, budgeting for two and half days for up to two people. If OCSE requests other travel, it will reimburse the grantee.

ORGANIZATIONAL PROFILES - 10 points

The applicant identifies the educational and professional background of the project director and key project staff and the experience of the organization to demonstrate the applicant's ability to administer and implement the project effectively and efficiently.

Bonus Points - 5 points

OCSE will award five points if the applicant State has not been awarded a Section 1115 within the past five years.

2. Review and Selection Process:

Each application submitted under this program announcement will undergo a pre-review to determine that (1) the application was received by the closing date and submitted in accordance with the instructions in this announcement and (2) the applicant is eligible for funding.  The applicant must clearly indicate in the project abstract the specific priority area for which it is applying.

Applications that pass the initial ACF screening will be evaluated and rated by an independent review panel on the basis of specific evaluation criteria.  The results of these reviews will assist the OCSE Commissioner and program staff in considering competing applications.  Reviewers' 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 reviewers.  However, highly ranked applications are not guaranteed funding because other factors are taken into consideration.  These include, but are not limited to, the number of similar types of existing grants or projects funded with OCSE funds in the last five years; comments of reviewers and government officials; staff evaluation and input; previous program performance of applicants; compliance with grant terms under previous HHS grants; audit reports; investigative reports; and an applicant's progress in resolving any final audit disallowance on previous OCSE or other Federal agency grants.  OCSE may consider the geographic distribution of funds among States and the relative proportion of funding among rural and urban areas.  The evaluation criteria are designed to assess the quality of a proposed project and to determine the likelihood of its success.  The evaluation criteria are closely related and are considered as a whole in judging the overall quality of an application.  Points are awarded only to applications that are responsive to the evaluation criteria within the context of this program announcement.

3. Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates:

VI. AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION

1. Award Notices:

2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements:

3. Reporting Requirements:

VII. AGENCY CONTACTS

Program Office Contact:

Karen Anthony
Administration for Children and Families
Office of Child Support Enforcement
Division of State, Tribal and Local Assistance
370 L'Enfant Promenade, S.W., 4th Floor-West
Washington, DC 20447
Phone:  202-690-6275
Fax: 202-401-5681
Email: karen.anthony@acf.hhs.gov

Grants Management Office Contact:

Ben L. Sharp
Administration for Children and Families
Office of Grants Management, Division of Discretionary Grants
Section 1115 Applications
370 L'Enfant Promenade, S.W., 6th Floor-East
Washington , DC 20447
Phone:  202-401-5513
Email: ACFOGME-Grants@acf.hhs.gov

VIII. OTHER INFORMATION

Grants.gov provides electronic acknowledgement of grant applications received electronically.

Applicants will not be sent acknowledgements of applications received by other means.

Additional information about this program and its purpose can be located at

URL: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cse/grants/.

Notice of Possible Cross-site Evaluation

While local evaluation of individual projects is a valued requirement for these projects, there is also the possibility that individual projects may be asked to gather and compile data in a manner that facilitates cross-site evaluation.  It is anticipated that cross-site evaluations for some projects may be undertaken in this and subsequent years, using funds in addition to those referenced in this announcement.  Applicants must agree to become part of, and fully cooperate with, cross-site evaluators, should OCSE undertake such an evaluation.  Grantees should be prepared to meet with other grantees, Federal officials, and the evaluator, as appropriate.  If a cross-site evaluation is conducted, OCSE will bear the cost of it.

Priority Area 2:

Using Business Intelligence/Data Analysis to Improve Performance

Description

OCSE issued several Information Memoranda entitled "The Story Behind the Numbers," which summarized findings from data analyses showing how various factors impacted child support performance.  See especially IM-04-04 "Who Owes the Child Support Debt," and IM-07-04 which addresses 3 topics ("The Impact of Nonmarital Birth Data on Child Support Program Performance," "The Impact of Modification Thresholds on Review and Adjustment of Child Support Orders," and "The Effects of Child Support Order Amounts on Payments by Low-Income Parents").

Under this priority States would obtain performance measurement data and caseload characteristic data from their statewide CSE automated systems and/or other sources in order to better understand and ultimately improve existing processes and performance. (Possible alternative information sources include, but are not limited to, data warehouses, data mining/data profiling, Customized Off the Shelf software, in-house development, or transfer of web-based tracing tools.)  Grant funds are not to be used for surveys, focus groups or other qualitative information collection methods.

OCSE invites eligible State agencies to conduct a data analysis focused on resolution of performance-related questions.  Examples include, but are not limited to, an analysis of how immigration, incarceration and reentry, a rise in the number of noncustodial mothers or other organizational, management or customer-behavior matters impact performance.  (If a question is selected that impacts a CSE incentive or National Strategic Plan measure, consider identifying cases in the denominator that are not in the numerator and analyze the characteristics existing among these cases and what actions the State can take to move them to the numerator; if a question specifically affecting arrears is selected, consider building on the existing body of study by stratifying cases in arrears by age and other characteristics.) If feasible, within the grant award, minor statewide enhancements to automated systems and program operations are permissible.  Please note that grant awards under this priority area have a budget and project period of 17 months.

The proposal and final report should describe how the information from these systems and/or statistical models produce positive outcomes for child support and how the data will be used to inform decisions about improving child support performance.  For replication purposes, the final report should also include a summary and analysis of the steps taken to extract the data (i.e., a list of data sources used, the methodology, etc.). 

OCSE will award 5 bonus points if the applicant chooses projects to support arrears stratification/management.

II. AWARD INFORMATION

Explanation of Other:

The duration of the budget and project period for Priority Area 2 is 17 months.

Awards under this announcement are subject to the availability of funds.

III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

1. Eligible Applicants:

• Others (See below)

Eligible applicants for these Section 1115 demonstration project grants are State (including the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands) Title IV-D or the umbrella agencies of the IV-D program.

Foreign entities are not eligible under this announcement.

2. Cost Sharing or Matching: Yes

Failure to provide the required cost sharing/matching amount will result in a disallowance of unmatched Federal funds.

All grant awards are subject to the availability of appropriated funds.  The Section 1115 funds awarded to each project will represent 29 percent of the total project costs.  Grantees must provide at least five percent of the total approved cost of the project. For the purposes of the demonstration project, the total expenditures will be treated as State expenditures under Title IV-D that will be reimbursed by the regular Federal match of 66 percent of expenditures for Title IV-D administrative activities.  The total approved cost of the project is the sum of the ACF grant award under Section 1115, regular Title IV-D Federal Financial Participation (FFP), and the State share.  Applicants must prepare a formal budget on the required forms, as listed in Section IV.3, below.  The proposed State five percent match must be identified on the budget forms.  Matching funds may be provided in cash (preferred) or through in-kind public (not private) sources.  

For example, to meet the match requirements in Priority Two, a project with a total approved project cost of $103,448, requesting $30,000 in ACF funds, must provide a non-Federal share of at least $5,172 (five percent of the total approved budget cost of $103,448).

3. Other:

Disqualification Factors

IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION

1. Address to Request Application Package:

2. Content and Form of Application Submission:

The project description should include all the information requirements described in the specific evaluation criteria outlined in this program announcement under Part V. The applicant must clearly indicate in the project abstract the specific priority area for which he/she is applying.  This information is necessary in order that the application be judged according to the priority area description and in competition with other applications.  Applicants may submit different applications covering different priority areas or they may submit different applications for different projects under one priority area; however, they may not submit one application for the same project covering multiple priority areas. 

The length of the application, excluding the application forms, certifications, and resumes, should be no more than 20 pages double-spaced, using a 12-point font.  A page is a single-side of an 8 1/2" x 11" sheet of plain white paper.  (Applicants are requested not to send pamphlets, maps, brochures or other printed material along with their application as these are difficult to photocopy.  These materials, if submitted, will not be included in the review process.)  Each page of the application will be counted (excluding required forms, certifications and resumes) to determine the total length. If submitting electronically, the downloaded copy must meet the standards listed above. To facilitate the review of applications, applicants should address each requirement in the priority area description under the appropriate Section of the program narrative statement. The reviewers will determine the strengths and weaknesses of each application using each element of the evaluation criteria listed below, provide written comments, and assign numerical scores to each application. 

Each application must be submitted in accordance with the guidance provided below. 

a)      The application must be signed by an individual authorized to act for the applicant agency and to assume responsibility for the obligations imposed by terms and conditions of the grant award. 

b)      If more than one State's agency is involved in submitting a single application, one State agency must be identified as the applicant organization that will have legal responsibility for the grant.

c)      Guidance in completing the 424-A is listed below.

Section A--Budget Summary

• Line 1, Column a: enter "Section 1115
• Line 1, Column b: enter "93.564"
• Line 1, Column c: leave blank
• Line 1, Column d: leave blank
• Line 1, Column e: 1115 funds (29%) for first budget period.  A budget period is normally one year.
• Line 1, Column f: State share (5%) and Federal title IV-D (66%) amounts combined for first budget period
• Line 1, Column g:  e and f combined
• Lines 2-4: leave blank

Section B--Budget Categories

NOTE: Use first budget period amounts only

• Line 6, Column 1: Section 1115 grant amount (29%)
• Line 6, Column 2: State share amount (5%)
• Line 6, Column 3: Federal title IV-D amount (66%)
• Line 6, Column 4: leave this column blank
• Line 7: This is normally left blank.  If completed, keep this amount separate from totals in the line 5 above

Section C--Non-Federal Resources

• Line 8, Column a: enter "Section 1115"
• Line 8, Column b: enter State share amount (5%) for first budget period
• Line 8, Column c: leave blank
• Line 8, Column d: enter Federal title IV-D amount (66%) for first budget period
• Line 8, Column e: b and d combined

Section D--Forecasted Cash Needs

• Line 13: enter Section 1115 grant amount (29%) for first budget period
• Line 14: combine Federal title IV-D amount (66%) and State share amount (5%) for the first budget period

Section E--Budget Estimates of Federal Funds Needed for Balance of Project

NOTE:  Section E is for future funding.  Provide an estimate for subsequent budget periods of the project.  A budget period is normally one year.

• Line 16, Column a: enter "Section 1115"
• Line 16, Column b: enter Section 1115 grant amount (29%) for second budget period
• Line 16, Column c: enter Section 1115 grant amount (29%) for third budget period
• Line 16, Columns e and f: leave blank for three-year projects

Section F

NOTE: Leave this section blank  

Applicants may also refer to OCSE Web site for assistance in completing the 424-A: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cse/grants/resources/application_tools/

d)      In accordance with the general rule stated above under the heading TRAVEL, applicants should include funds in their budget for one trip to an ACF/OCSE conference or training session in Washington, DC, budgeting for two and a half days for up to two people.  If OCSE requests other visits, it will reimburse the grantee for them.

D-U-N-S Requirement

Forms, Assurances, and Certifications

3. Submission Dates and Times:

Due Date for Applications: 04/14/2008

Explanation of Due Dates

Receipt acknowledgement for application packages will not be provided to applicants who submit their package via mail, courier services, or by hand delivery.   Applicants will receive an electronic acknowledgement for applications that are submitted via http://www.Grants.gov.

Checklist

You may use the checklist below as a guide when preparing your application package.

4. Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs:

5. Funding Restrictions:

Sub-Contracting or Delegating Projects: OCSE will not fund projects 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-contracts for specific services or activities necessary to conduct the project.

Applicants should understand that OCSE will not award grants for demonstration projects that:

(a)     Duplicate automated data processing and information retrieval system requirements/enhancements and associated tasks that are specified in the Social Security Act; or

(b)     Cover costs for routine activities that would normally be reimbursed under the Child Support Enforcement (CSE) Program, e.g., adding staff positions to perform routine CSE tasks, or by other Federal funding sources.  Proposals and their accompanying budgets will be reviewed from this perspective.

6. Other Submission Requirements:

Submission by Mail

Hand Delivery

V. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

The Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (P.L. 104-13)

Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 40 hours per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, gathering and maintaining the data needed and reviewing the collection information.

The project description is approved under OMB control number 0970-0139, which expires 4/30/2010.

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.

1. Criteria:

Part I   THE PROJECT DESCRIPTION OVERVIEW

PURPOSE

GENERAL EXPECTATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS

Part II   GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR PREPARING A FULL PROJECT DESCRIPTION

INTRODUCTION

EVALUATION CRITERIA:

OBJECTIVES AND NEED FOR ASSISTANCE - 20 points

APPROACH - 20 points

A well thought-out and practical management and staffing plan is mandatory. The applicant should include a detailed management plan that includes timelines and discussion of major task activities. The main concern in this criterion is that the applicant should demonstrate a clear idea of the project's goals, objectives and tasks to be accomplished.  The plan to accomplish the goals and tasks should be set forth in a logical framework.  The plan should identify what tasks are required of any contractors and specify their relevant qualifications to perform these tasks. The plan should also identify what tasks will be provided by partner agencies/organizations and attach letters of commitment to the project from these entities.

Staff to be committed to the project (including supervisory and management staff) at the State and/or local levels must be identified by their role in the project along with their qualifications and areas of particular expertise.  In addition, for any technical expertise obtained through a contract or subgrant, the desired technical expertise and skills of proposed positions should be specified in detail.  The applicant should demonstrate that persons with the skills needed to operate the project are on board or can be obtained within a reasonable time.

RESULTS OR BENEFITS EXPECTED - 20 points

The applicant should identify the results and benefits expected to be derived from the project, the extent to which the expected results are consistent with the goals and objectives of the project, their contributions to policy and practice in promoting the objectives of the Title IV-D program listed in Section 451 of the Act, and the National Child Support Enforcement Strategic goal of children receiving the financial support from parents as ordered. 

EVALUATION - 20 points

BUDGET AND BUDGET JUSTIFICATION - 10 points

The project costs need to be reasonable in relation to the identified tasks, including the evaluation component and reasonably cost-effective in relation to the size of the caseload served and the project impacts/results can be achieved.  A detailed budget (e.g., the staff required, equipment and facilities that would be leased or purchased) should be provided identifying all agency and other resources (e.g., State, community, or other programs such as TANF or Head Start) that will be committed to the project.  Consultant or contractor personnel costs should also be delineated. 

In accordance with the general rule stated above under the heading TRAVEL, applicants should include funds in their budget for one trip to an OCSE conference or training session in Washington, D.C., budgeting for two and a half days for up to two people.  If OCSE requests other such visits, it will reimburse the grantee for them. Grant funds cannot be used for capital improvements or the purchase of land or buildings.  

STAFF AND POSITION DATA - 10 points

The applicant identifies the educational and professional background of the project director and key project staff and the experience of the organization to demonstrate the applicant's ability to administer and implement the project effectively and efficiently.

Bonus Points - 5 points

OCSE will award 5 bonus points if the applicant chooses projects to support arrears stratification/management.

2. Review and Selection Process:

Each application submitted under this program announcement will undergo a pre-review to determine that (1) the application was received by the closing date and submitted in accordance with the instructions in this announcement and (2) the applicant is eligible for funding.  The applicant must clearly indicate in the project abstract the specific priority area for which it is applying.

Applications that pass the initial ACF screening will be evaluated and rated by an independent review panel on the basis of specific evaluation criteria.  The results of these reviews will assist the OCSE Commissioner and program staff in considering competing applications.  Reviewers' 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 reviewers.  However, highly ranked applications are not guaranteed funding because other factors are taken into consideration.  These include, but are not limited to, the number of similar types of existing grants or projects funded with OCSE funds in the last five years; comments of reviewers and government officials; staff evaluation and input; previous program performance of applicants; compliance with grant terms under previous HHS grants; audit reports; investigative reports; and an applicant's progress in resolving any final audit disallowance on previous OCSE or other Federal agency grants.  OCSE may consider the geographic distribution of funds among States and the relative proportion of funding among rural and urban areas.  The evaluation criteria are designed to assess the quality of a proposed project and to determine the likelihood of its success. The evaluation criteria are closely related and are considered as a whole in judging the overall quality of an application.  Points are awarded only to applications that are responsive to the evaluation criteria within the context of this program announcement.

3. Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates:

VI. AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION

1. Award Notices:

2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements:

3. Reporting Requirements:

VII. AGENCY CONTACTS

Program Office Contact:

Karen Anthony
Administration for Children and Families
Office of Child Support Enforcement
Division of State, Tribal and Local Assistance
370 L'Enfant Promenade, S.W., 4th Floor-West
Washington, DC 20447
Phone:  202-690-6275
Fax: 202-401-5681
Email: karen.anthony@acf.hhs.gov

Grants Management Office Contact:

Ben L. Sharp
Administration for Children and Families
Office of Grants Management, Division of Discretionary Grants
Section 1115 Applications
370 L'Enfant Promenade, S.W., 6th Floor-East
Washington , DC 20447
Phone:  202-401-5513
Email: ACFOGME-Grants@acf.hhs.gov

VIII. OTHER INFORMATION

Priority Area 3:

Improved Child Support Results through Intensified Collaboration with Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (Title IV-A agency)

Description

In FY 2004, OCSE awarded three Section 1115 grants (District of Columbia, Florida and Massachusetts) for improving collaboration between child support and TANF.  There were some consistent findings: cross training increased knowledge of each other's programs, sharpened the focus on reaching common goals, and improved customer service to clients, but did not always result in an increased number of orders established.  Findings summarized from two of these grants can be found on the OCSE webpage:  http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cse/grants/abstracts/fy2004_1115_abstracts.html

The grant shall focus on specific breakdowns in the process that result in so few orders being established and develop and implement solutions to the breakdowns. Under this priority area, eligible State agencies will improve child support results by building on their existing collaborative practices, incorporating lessons learned from previous grant findings and information provided by OCSE in the form of Dear Colleague Letters, to intensively target child support services for TANF families.  Strategies can include, but are not limited to, further strengthening partnerships at the management and caseworker level, assigning liaisons, incorporating new technologies to communicate, involving both parents (when possible) in developing post-TANF transition plans, reviewing  and modifying orders, and compromising arrears where appropriate, etc.

Funding through this grant can be used only for the child support portion of the collaboration.  Proposals in this priority area must include a letter of intent to participate in the grant from the TANF agency. The evaluation should provide outcome measures from the demonstration on the child support agency, and, to the extent possible, the partner agency.  The report should also include a process analysis of the intervention incorporated by the two agencies involved in the demonstration.

II. AWARD INFORMATION

Explanation of Other:

Maximum Section 1115 Amount for Each Award under Priorty Three:   Ocse will award a 36-month project period with three 12-month budget periods.  OCSE is providing a maximum of $110,000 for the first 12-month budget period, a maximum of $60,000 for the second 12-month budget period and $50,000 for the third 12-month budget period.

Awards under this announcement are subject to the availability of funds.

III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

1. Eligible Applicants:

• Others (See below)

Eligible applicants for these Section 1115 demonstration project grants are State (including the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands) Title IV-D or the umbrella agencies of the IV-D program.

Foreign entities are not eligible under this announcement.

2. Cost Sharing or Matching: Yes

Failure to provide the required cost sharing/matching amount will result in a disallowance of unmatched Federal funds.

All grant awards are subject to the availability of appropriated funds.  The Section 1115 funds awarded to each project will represent 29 percent of the total project costs.  Grantees must provide at least five percent of the total approved cost of the project. For the purposes of the demonstration project, the total expenditures will be treated as State expenditures under Title IV-D that will be reimbursed by the regular Federal match of 66 percent of expenditures for Title IV-D administrative activities.  The total approved cost of the project is the sum of the ACF grant award under Section 1115, regular Title IV-D Federal Financial Participation (FFP), and the State share.  Applicants must prepare a formal budget on the required forms, as listed in Section IV.3, below.  The proposed State five percent match must be identified on the budget forms.  Matching funds may be provided in cash (preferred) or through in-kind public (not private) sources.   

For example, to meet the match requirements in Priority Three, a project with a total approved project cost of $379,310, requesting $110,000 in ACF funds, must provide a non-Federal share of at least $18,965 (five percent of the total approved budget cost of $379,310).

3. Other:

Disqualification Factors

IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION

1. Address to Request Application Package:

2. Content and Form of Application Submission:

The project description should include all the information requirements described in the specific evaluation criteria outlined in this program announcement under Part V. The applicant must clearly indicate in the project abstract the specific priority area for which he/she is applying.  This information is necessary in order that the application be judged according to the priority area description and in competition with other applications.  Applicants may submit different applications covering different priority areas or they may submit different applications for different projects under one priority area; however, they may not submit one application for the same project covering multiple priority areas. 

The length of the application, excluding the application forms, certifications, and resumes, should be no more than 20 pages double-spaced, using a 12-point font.  A page is a single-side of an 8 1/2" x 11" sheet of plain white paper.  (Applicants are requested not to send pamphlets, maps, brochures or other printed material along with their application as these are difficult to photocopy.  These materials, if submitted, will not be included in the review process.)  Each page of the application will be counted (excluding required forms, certifications and resumes) to determine the total length. If submitting electronically, the downloaded copy must meet the standards listed above. To facilitate the review of applications, applicants should address each requirement in the priority area description under the appropriate Section of the program narrative statement. The reviewers will determine the strengths and weaknesses of each application using each element of the evaluation criteria listed below, provide written comments, and assign numerical scores to each application. 

Each application must be submitted in accordance with the guidance provided below. 

a)      The application must be signed by an individual authorized to act for the applicant agency and to assume responsibility for the obligations imposed by terms and conditions of the grant award. 

b)      If more than one State's agency is involved in submitting a single application, one State agency must be identified as the applicant organization that will have legal responsibility for the grant.

c)      Guidance in completing the 424-A is listed below.

Section A--Budget Summary

• Line 1, Column a: enter "Section 1115
• Line 1, Column b: enter "93.564"
• Line 1, Column c: leave blank
• Line 1, Column d: leave blank
• Line 1, Column e: 1115 funds (29%) for first budget period.  A budget period is normally one year.
• Line 1, Column f: State share (5%) and Federal title IV-D (66%) amounts combined for first budget period
• Line 1, Column g:  e and f combined
• Lines 2-4: leave blank

Section B--Budget Categories

NOTE: Use first budget period amounts only

• Line 6, Column 1: Section 1115 grant amount (29%)
• Line 6, Column 2: State share amount (5%)
• Line 6, Column 3: Federal title IV-D amount (66%)
• Line 6, Column 4: leave this column blank
• Line 7: This is normally left blank.  If completed, keep this amount separate from totals in the line 5 above

Section C--Non-Federal Resources

• Line 8, Column a: enter "Section 1115"
• Line 8, Column b: enter State share amount (5%) for first budget period
• Line 8, Column c: leave blank
• Line 8, Column d: enter Federal title IV-D amount (66%) for first budget period
• Line 8, Column e: b and d combined

Section D--Forecasted Cash Needs

• Line 13: enter Section 1115 grant amount (29%) for first budget period
• Line 14: combine Federal title IV-D amount (66%) and State share amount (5%) for the first budget period

Section E--Budget Estimates of Federal Funds Needed for Balance of Project

NOTE:  Section E is for future funding.  Provide an estimate for subsequent budget periods of the project.  A budget period is normally one year.

• Line 16, Column a: enter "Section 1115"
• Line 16, Column b: enter Section 1115 grant amount (29%) for second budget period
• Line 16, Column c: enter Section 1115 grant amount (29%) for third budget period
• Line 16, Columns e and f: leave blank for three-year projects

Section F

NOTE: Leave this section blank  

Applicants may also refer to OCSE Web site for assistance in completing the 424-A: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cse/grants/resources/application_tools/

d)      In accordance with the general rule stated above under the heading TRAVEL, applicants should include funds in their budget for one trip to an ACF/OCSE conference or training session in Washington, DC, budgeting for two and a half days for up to two people.  If OCSE requests other visits, it will reimburse the grantee for them.

D-U-N-S Requirement

Forms, Assurances, and Certifications

3. Submission Dates and Times:

Due Date for Applications: 04/14/2008

Explanation of Due Dates

Receipt acknowledgement for application packages will not be provided to applicants who submit their package via mail, courier services, or by hand delivery.   Applicants will receive an electronic acknowledgement for applications that are submitted via http://www.Grants.gov.

Checklist

You may use the checklist below as a guide when preparing your application package.

4. Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs:

5. Funding Restrictions:

Sub-Contracting or Delegating Projects: OCSE will not fund projects 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-contracts for specific services or activities necessary to conduct the project.

Applicants should understand that OCSE will not award grants for demonstration projects that:

(a)     Duplicate automated data processing and information retrieval system requirements/enhancements and associated tasks that are specified in the Social Security Act; or

(b)     Cover costs for routine activities that would normally be reimbursed under the Child Support Enforcement (CSE) Program, e.g., adding staff positions to perform routine CSE tasks, or by other Federal funding sources.  Proposals and their accompanying budgets will be reviewed from this perspective.

6. Other Submission Requirements:

Submission by Mail

Hand Delivery

V. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

The Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (P.L. 104-13)

Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 40 hours per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, gathering and maintaining the data needed and reviewing the collection information.

The project description is approved under OMB control number 0970-0139, which expires 4/30/2010.

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.

1. Criteria:

Part I   THE PROJECT DESCRIPTION OVERVIEW

PURPOSE

GENERAL EXPECTATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS

Part II   GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR PREPARING A FULL PROJECT DESCRIPTION

INTRODUCTION

EVALUATION CRITERIA:

OBJECTIVES AND NEED FOR ASSISTANCE - 15 points

The applicant should demonstrate a thorough understanding and analysis of the problem(s) being addressed in the project, the need for assistance and the importance of addressing these problems in improving the effectiveness of the child support program.  The applicant should describe how the project will address this problem(s) through implementation of changes, enhancements and innovative efforts and specifically, how this project will improve program results.  The applicant should address one or more of the strategies or approaches described under the specific priority area for which they are applying (refer to Section I).   

The applicant should identify the key goals and objectives of the project; describe the conceptual framework of its approach to resolve the identified problem(s), and provide a rationale for taking this approach as opposed to others.

APPROACH - 20 points

A well thought-out and practical management and staffing plan is mandatory. The applicant should include a detailed management plan that includes timelines and discussion of major task activities. The main concern in this criterion is that the applicant should demonstrate a clear idea of the project's goals, objectives and tasks to be accomplished.  The plan to accomplish the goals and tasks should be set forth in a logical framework.  The plan should identify what tasks are required of any contractors and specify their relevant qualifications to perform these tasks. The plan should also identify what tasks will be provided by partner agencies/organizations and attach letters of commitment to the project from these entities.

Staff to be committed to the project (including supervisory and management staff) at the State and/or local levels must be identified by their role in the project along with their qualifications and areas of particular expertise.  In addition, for any technical expertise obtained through a contract or subgrant, the desired technical expertise and skills of proposed positions should be specified in detail.  The applicant should demonstrate that persons with the skills needed to operate the project are on board or can be obtained within a reasonable time.

RESULTS OR BENEFITS EXPECTED - 15 points

The applicant should identify the results and benefits expected to be derived from the project, the extent to which the expected results are consistent with the goals and objectives of the project, their contributions to policy and practice in promoting the objectives of the Title IV-D program listed in Section 451 of the Act, and the OCSE National Strategic goal of children receiving the financial support from parents as ordered. 

EVALUATION - 20 points

The applicant should describe how the success of this project can be measured and how the success of this project has broader application in contributing to CSE policies, practices and/or providing solutions that could be adapted by other States/jurisdictions. The applicant should include plans for both a process and an outcome evaluation. 

The applicant should include a process evaluation plan describing the evaluation methodology to be used to determine how the project will be implemented as proposed to accomplish the project goals/objectives. The process evaluation should assess how well the implementation design worked and describe areas such as the selection of participants, the referral process, the coordination of partnership services, the implementation of new/revised processes, etc.  It should also describe the specific results/products that will be achieved; as appropriate, identify the kinds of data to be collected and maintained to track outcomes; describe procedures for informed consent of participants, where applicable, and discuss the criteria to be used to evaluate the results of the project.

The outcome evaluation should involve variables related to overall OCSE goals, such as the number of child support orders established, the amount of child support collections, etc.  The outcome evaluation may include a comparison of before/and after the project's experience, as appropriate, or may give trends, during the life of the project, in terms of overall OCSE goals.  OCSE is interested in results that suggest, or point to, results/impacts that might be later tested more rigorously in a subsequent project. 

Independent evaluations are the normal and preferred evaluation arrangements for all projects. An evaluation is deemed independent if it is conducted by an entity independent of the executive branch of State government (not including State universities; State universities may be considered independent for the purpose of conducting evaluations).

Entities that provide services for the grantee under contract are not deemed to be sufficiently independent of the project and must not perform the evaluation. 

BUDGET AND BUDGET JUSTIFICATION - 10 points

The project costs need to be reasonable in relation to the identified tasks, including the evaluation component and reasonably cost-effective in relation to the size of the caseload served and the project impacts/results can be achieved.  A detailed budget (e.g., the staff required, equipment and facilities that would be leased or purchased) should be provided identifying all agency and other resources (e.g., State, community, or other programs such as TANF or Head Start) that will be committed to the project.  Consultant or contractor personnel costs should also be delineated. 

In accordance with the general rule stated above under the heading TRAVEL, applicants should include funds in their budget for one trip to an OCSE conference or training session in Washington, D.C., budgeting for two and a half days for up to two people.  If OCSE requests other such visits, it will reimburse the grantee for them. Grant funds cannot be used for capital improvements or the purchase of land or buildings.  

ORGANIZATIONAL PROFILES - 10 points

The applicant identifies the educational and professional background of the project director and key project staff from both child support and TANF and the experience of the organization to demonstrate the applicant's ability to administer and implement the project effectively and efficiently. 

LETTERS OF SUPPORT - 10 points

The application should include a signed letter from the IV-A Director, stating the intent to partner with IV-D agency.

2. Review and Selection Process:

Each application submitted under this program announcement will undergo a pre-review to determine that (1) the application was received by the closing date and submitted in accordance with the instructions in this announcement and (2) the applicant is eligible for funding.  The applicant must clearly indicate in the project abstract the specific priority area for which it is applying.

Applications that pass the initial ACF screening will be evaluated and rated by an independent review panel on the basis of specific evaluation criteria.  The results of these reviews will assist the OCSE Commissioner and program staff in considering competing applications.  Reviewers' 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 reviewers.  However, highly ranked applications are not guaranteed funding because other factors are taken into consideration.  These include, but are not limited to, the number of similar types of existing grants or projects funded with OCSE funds in the last five years; comments of reviewers and government officials; staff evaluation and input; previous program performance of applicants; compliance with grant terms under previous HHS grants; audit reports; investigative reports; and an applicant's progress in resolving any final audit disallowance on previous OCSE or other Federal agency grants.  OCSE may consider the geographic distribution of funds among States and the relative proportion of funding among rural and urban areas.  The evaluation criteria are designed to assess the quality of a proposed project and to determine the likelihood of its success. The evaluation criteria are closely related and are considered as a whole in judging the overall quality of an application.  Points are awarded only to applications that are responsive to the evaluation criteria within the context of this program announcement.

Federal reviewers will be used for the review process. 

3. Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates:

VI. AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION

1. Award Notices:

2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements:

3. Reporting Requirements:

VII. AGENCY CONTACTS

Program Office Contact:

Karen Anthony
Administration for Children and Families
Office of Child Support Enforcement
Division of State, Tribal and Local Assistance
370 L'Enfant, Promenade, S.W., 4th Floor-West
Washington, DC 20447
Phone:  202-690-6275
Fax: 202-401-5681
Email: karen.anthony@acf.hhs.gov

Grants Management Office Contact:

Ben L. Sharp
Administration for Children and Families
Office of Grants Management, Division of Discretionary Grants
Section 1115 Applications
370 L'Enfant Promenade, S.W., 6th Floor-East
Washington, DC 20447
Phone:  202-401-5513
Email: ACFOGME-Grants@acf.hhs.gov

VIII. OTHER INFORMATION

While local evaluation of individual projects is a valued requirement for these projects, there is also the possibility that individual projects may be asked to gather and compile data in a manner that facilitates cross-site evaluation.  It is anticipated that cross-site evaluations for some projects may be undertaken in this and subsequent years, using funds in addition to those referenced in this announcement.  Applicants must agree to become part of, and fully cooperate with, cross-site evaluators, should OCSE undertake such an evaluation.  Grantees should be prepared to meet with other grantees, Federal officials, and the evaluator, as appropriate.  If a cross-site evaluation is conducted, OCSE will bear the cost of it.

Priority Area 4:

Child Support Outreach to Faith-Based and Community Organizations

Description

Many people receiving support services from faith-based and community programs have a child support matter that needs attention.  It is often difficult for those who work in faith-based and community organizations to understand or navigate the child support system to assist their clients. 

Under this priority, OCSE invites eligible State agencies to propose outreach projects that provide predominantly IV-D child support case management services and deliver child support information to faith-based and community programs and their clients.  Projects must designate staff to serve as a liaison between faith-based and community program(s), to ensure child support matters in IV-D cases are addressed and resolved; and to assist parents in navigating the child support system.  Projects should also provide child support outreach in terms of training and disseminating materials to service providers, but this may not be the sole activity.  Services provided must be tracked for outcomes and, if possible, impacts on IV-D collections and other performance measures. 

Applications must include letters of support from faith-based and community program(s) with the intent to partner with the child support agency in this endeavor.  Refer to the Funding Opportunity Description in Section I of this announcement for guidance.

OCSE will award 5 bonus points for rural communities.

II. AWARD INFORMATION

Explanation of Other:

Maximum Section 1115 Amount for Each Award under Priority Four:    OCSE will award a 36-month project period with three 12-month budget periods. OCSE is providing a maximum of $30,000 for the first 12-month budget period, a maximum of $30,000 for the second 12-month budget period and $30,000 for the third 12-month budget period.

Awards under this announcement are subject to the availability of funds.

III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

1. Eligible Applicants:

• Others (See below)

Eligible applicants for these Section 1115 demonstration project grants are State (including the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands) Title IV-D or the umbrella agencies of the IV-D program.

Foreign entities are not eligible under this announcement.

2. Cost Sharing or Matching: Yes

Failure to provide the required cost sharing/matching amount will result in a disallowance of unmatched Federal funds.

All grant awards are subject to the availability of appropriated funds.  The Section 1115 funds awarded to each project will represent 29 percent of the total project costs.  Grantees must provide at least five percent of the total approved cost of the project. For the purposes of the demonstration project, the total expenditures will be treated as State expenditures under Title IV-D that will be reimbursed by the regular Federal match of 66 percent of expenditures for Title IV-D administrative activities.  . The total approved cost of the project is the sum of the ACF grant award under Section 1115, regular Title IV-D Federal Financial Participation (FFP), and the State share.  Applicants must prepare a formal budget on the required forms, as listed in Section IV.3, below.  The proposed State five percent match must be identified on the budget forms.  Matching funds may be provided in cash (preferred) or through in-kind public (not private) sources.  

For example, to meet the match requirements in Priority Four, a project with a total approved project cost of $103,448, requesting $30,000 in ACF funds, must provide a non-Federal share of at least $5,172 (five percent of the total approved budget cost of $103,448).

3. Other:

Disqualification Factors

IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION

1. Address to Request Application Package:

2. Content and Form of Application Submission:

The project description should include all the information requirements described in the specific evaluation criteria outlined in this program announcement under Part V. The applicant must clearly indicate in the project abstract the specific priority area for which he/she is applying.  This information is necessary in order that the application be judged according to the priority area description and in competition with other applications.  Applicants may submit different applications covering different priority areas or they may submit different applications for different projects under one priority area; however, they may not submit one application for the same project covering multiple priority areas. 

The length of the application, excluding the application forms, certifications, and resumes, should be no more than 20 pages double-spaced, using a 12-point font.  A page is a single-side of an 8 1/2" x 11" sheet of plain white paper.  (Applicants are requested not to send pamphlets, maps, brochures or other printed material along with their application as these are difficult to photocopy.  These materials, if submitted, will not be included in the review process.)  Each page of the application will be counted (excluding required forms, certifications and resumes) to determine the total length. If submitting electronically, the downloaded copy must meet the standards listed above. To facilitate the review of applications, applicants should address each requirement in the priority area description under the appropriate Section of the program narrative statement. The reviewers will determine the strengths and weaknesses of each application using each element of the evaluation criteria listed below, provide written comments, and assign numerical scores to each application. 

Each application must be submitted in accordance with the guidance provided below. 

a)      The application must be signed by an individual authorized to act for the applicant agency and to assume responsibility for the obligations imposed by terms and conditions of the grant award. 

b)      If more than one State's agency is involved in submitting a single application, one State agency must be identified as the applicant organization that will have legal responsibility for the grant.

c)      Guidance in completing the 424-A is listed below.

Section A--Budget Summary

• Line 1, Column a: enter "Section 1115
• Line 1, Column b: enter "93.564"
• Line 1, Column c: leave blank
• Line 1, Column d: leave blank
• Line 1, Column e: 1115 funds (29%) for first budget period.  A budget period is normally one year.
• Line 1, Column f: State share (5%) and Federal title IV-D (66%) amounts combined for first budget period
• Line 1, Column g:  e and f combined
• Lines 2-4: leave blank

Section B--Budget Categories

NOTE: Use first budget period amounts only

• Line 6, Column 1: Section 1115 grant amount (29%)
• Line 6, Column 2: State share amount (5%)
• Line 6, Column 3: Federal title IV-D amount (66%)
• Line 6, Column 4: leave this column blank
• Line 7: This is normally left blank.  If completed, keep this amount separate from totals in the line 5 above

Section C--Non-Federal Resources

• Line 8, Column a: enter "Section 1115"
• Line 8, Column b: enter State share amount (5%) for first budget period
• Line 8, Column c: leave blank
• Line 8, Column d: enter Federal title IV-D amount (66%) for first budget period
• Line 8, Column e: b and d combined

Section D--Forecasted Cash Needs

• Line 13: enter Section 1115 grant amount (29%) for first budget period
• Line 14: combine Federal title IV-D amount (66%) and State share amount (5%) for the first budget period

Section E--Budget Estimates of Federal Funds Needed for Balance of Project

NOTE:  Section E is for future funding.  Provide an estimate for subsequent budget periods of the project.  A budget period is normally one year.

• Line 16, Column a: enter "Section 1115"
• Line 16, Column b: enter Section 1115 grant amount (29%) for second budget period
• Line 16, Column c: enter Section 1115 grant amount (29%) for third budget period
• Line 16, Columns e and f: leave blank for three-year projects

Section F

NOTE: Leave this section blank  

Applicants may also refer to OCSE Web site for assistance in completing the 424-A: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cse/grants/resources/application_tools/

d)      In accordance with the general rule stated above under the heading TRAVEL, applicants should include funds in their budget for one trip to an ACF/OCSE conference or training session in Washington, DC, budgeting for two and a half days for up to two people.  If OCSE requests other visits, it will reimburse the grantee for them.

D-U-N-S Requirement

Forms, Assurances, and Certifications

3. Submission Dates and Times:

Due Date for Applications: 04/14/2008

Explanation of Due Dates

Receipt acknowledgement for application packages will not be provided to applicants who submit their package via mail, courier services, or by hand delivery.   Applicants will receive an electronic acknowledgement for applications that are submitted via http://www.Grants.gov.

Checklist

You may use the checklist below as a guide when preparing your application package.

4. Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs:

5. Funding Restrictions:

Applicants should understand that OCSE will not award grants for demonstration projects that:

(a)     Duplicate automated data processing and information retrieval system requirements/enhancements and associated tasks that are specified in the Social Security Act; or

(b)     Cover costs for routine activities that would normally be reimbursed under the Child Support Enforcement (CSE) Program, e.g., adding staff positions to perform routine CSE tasks, or by other Federal funding sources.  Proposals and their accompanying budgets will be reviewed from this perspective.

Number of Projects in Application

Applicants may submit different applications covering different priority areas or they may submit different applications for different projects under one priority area; however, they may not submit one application for the same project covering multiple priority areas.

6. Other Submission Requirements:

Submission by Mail

Hand Delivery

V. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

The Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (P.L. 104-13)

Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 40 hours per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, gathering and maintaining the data needed and reviewing the collection information.

The project description is approved under OMB control number 0970-0139, which expires 4/30/2010.

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.

1. Criteria:

Part I   THE PROJECT DESCRIPTION OVERVIEW

PURPOSE

GENERAL EXPECTATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS

Part II   GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR PREPARING A FULL PROJECT DESCRIPTION

INTRODUCTION

EVALUATION CRITERIA:

OBJECTIVES AND NEED FOR ASSISTANCE - 15 points

The applicant should demonstrate a thorough understanding and analysis of the problem(s) being addressed in the project, the need for assistance and the importance of addressing these problems in improving the effectiveness of the child support program.  The applicant should describe how the project will address this problem(s) through implementation of changes, enhancements and innovative efforts and specifically, how this project will improve program results.  The applicant should address one or more of the strategies or approaches described under the specific priority area for which they are applying (refer to Section I).   

The applicant should identify the key goals and objectives of the project; describe the conceptual framework of its approach to resolve the identified problem(s), and provide a rationale for taking this approach as opposed to others.

APPROACH - 15 points

A well thought-out and practical management and staffing plan is mandatory. The applicant should include a detailed management plan that includes timelines and discussion of major task activities. The main concern in this criterion is that the applicant should demonstrate a clear idea of the project's goals, objectives and tasks to be accomplished.  The plan to accomplish the goals and tasks should be set forth in a logical framework.  The plan should identify what tasks are required of any contractors and specify their relevant qualifications to perform these tasks. The plan should also identify what tasks will be provided by partner agencies/organizations and attach letters of commitment to the project from these entities.

Staff to be committed to the project (including supervisory and management staff) at the State and/or local levels must be identified by their role in the project along with their qualifications and areas of particular expertise.  In addition, for any technical expertise obtained through a contract or subgrant, the desired technical expertise and skills of proposed positions should be specified in detail.  The applicant should demonstrate that persons with the skills needed to operate the project are on board or can be obtained within a reasonable time.

RESULTS OR BENEFITS EXPECTED - 15 points

The applicant should identify the results and benefits expected to be derived from the project, the extent to which the expected results are consistent with the goals and objectives of the project, their contributions to policy and practice in promoting the objectives of the Title IV-D program listed in Section 451 of the Act, and the OCSE National Strategic goal of children receiving the financial support from parents as ordered. 

LETTERS OF SUPPORT - 15 points

The applicant must provide letter(s) of commitment signed by authorized person(s) from the faith-based and community organization(s) it plans to partner with in this endeavor.

BUDGET AND BUDGET JUSTIFICATION - 10 points

The applicant should propose reasonable project costs and allocate sufficient funds appropriately across activities to accomplish the objectives in a cost effective way, relative to the size of the caseload served and the project's impact/results to be achieved.

The applicant should describe the relationships between the proposed project and other Federally assisted work planned, anticipated or underway by the applicant.  The description of activities to be conducted under the grant must provide, for each person, detail of the level of person-hours of each position and their annual salary and the cost to this grant, and a delineation of the costs for the same categories listed in item six (Object Class Categories) of SF-424A.   Applicants may refer to OCSE Web site for guidance in completing the 424-A: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cse/grants/resources/application_tools/

In accordance with the general rule stated above under the heading TRAVEL, applicants should include funds in their budget for one trip to an OCSE conference or training session in Washington, DC, budgeting for two and half days for up to two people. If OCSE requests other travel, it will reimburse the grantee.

ORGANIZATIONAL PROFILES - 10 points

The applicant identifies the educational and professional background of the project director and key project staff and the experience of the organization to demonstrate the applicant's ability to administer and implement the project effectively and efficiently.

EVALUATION - 20 points

The applicant should describe how the success of this project can be measured and how the success of this project has broader application in contributing to CSE policies, practices and/or providing solutions that could be adapted by other States/jurisdictions. The applicant should include plans for both a process and an outcome evaluation. 

The applicant should include a process evaluation plan describing the evaluation methodology to be used to determine how the project will be implemented as proposed to accomplish the project goals/objectives. The process evaluation should assess how well the implementation design worked and describe areas such as the selection of participants, the referral process, the coordination of partnership services, the implementation of new/revised processes, etc.  It should also describe the specific results/products that will be achieved; as appropriate, identify the kinds of data to be collected and maintained to track outcomes; describe procedures for informed consent of participants, where applicable, and discuss the criteria to be used to evaluate the results of the project.

The outcome evaluation should involve variables related to overall OCSE goals, such as the number of child support orders established, the amount of child support collections, etc.  The outcome evaluation may include a comparison of before/and after the project's experience, as appropriate, or may give trends, during the life of the project, in terms of overall OCSE goals.  OCSE is interested in results that suggest, or point to, results/impacts that might be later tested more rigorously in a subsequent project. 

Independent evaluations are the normal and preferred evaluation arrangements for all projects. An evaluation is deemed independent if it is conducted by an entity independent of the executive branch of State government (not including State universities; State universities may be considered independent for the purpose of conducting evaluations).

Entities that provide services for the grantee under contract are not deemed to be sufficiently independent of the project and must not perform the evaluation. 

Bonus Points - 5 points

OCSE will award 5 bonus points for projects in rural community sites.

2. Review and Selection Process:

Each application submitted under this program announcement will undergo a pre-review to determine that (1) the application was received by the closing date and submitted in accordance with the instructions in this announcement and (2) the applicant is eligible for funding.  The applicant must clearly indicate in the project abstract the specific priority area for which it is applying.

Applications that pass the initial ACF screening will be evaluated and rated by an independent review panel on the basis of specific evaluation criteria.  The results of these reviews will assist the OCSE Commissioner and program staff in considering competing applications.  Reviewers' 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 reviewers.  However, highly ranked applications are not guaranteed funding because other factors are taken into consideration.  These include, but are not limited to, the number of similar types of existing grants or projects funded with OCSE funds in the last five years; comments of reviewers and government officials; staff evaluation and input; previous program performance of applicants; compliance with grant terms under previous HHS grants; audit reports; investigative reports; and an applicant's progress in resolving any final audit disallowance on previous OCSE or other Federal agency grants.  OCSE may consider the geographic distribution of funds among States and the relative proportion of funding among rural and urban areas.  The evaluation criteria are designed to assess the quality of a proposed project and to determine the likelihood of its success. The evaluation criteria are closely related and are considered as a whole in judging the overall quality of an application.  Points are awarded only to applications that are responsive to the evaluation criteria within the context of this program announcement.

Federal reviewers will be used for the review process. 

3. Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates:

VI. AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION

1. Award Notices:

2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements:

3. Reporting Requirements:

VII. AGENCY CONTACTS

Program Office Contact:

Karen Anthony
Administration for Children and Families
Office of Child Support Enforcement
Division of State, Tribal and Local Assistance
370 L'Enfant Promenade, S.W., 4th Floor-West
Washington , DC 20447
Phone:  202-690-6275
Email: karen.anthony@acf.hhs.gov

Grants Management Office Contact:

Ben L. Sharp
Administration for Children and Families
Office of Grants Management, Division of Discretionary Grants
Section 1115 Applications
370 L'Enfant Promenade, S.W., 6th Floor-East
Washington, DC 20447
Phone:  202-401-5513
Email: ACFOGME-Grants@acf.hhs.gov

VIII. OTHER INFORMATION

Posted on January 29, 2008