Health and Human Services: HHS-2008-ACF-OCSE-FI-0005

8/14/2019 Health and Human Services: HHS-2008-ACF-OCSE-FI-0005

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Department of Health & Human ServicesAdministration for Children and Families

Program Office: Office of Child Support Enforcement

Funding OpportunityTitle: Special Improvement Project (SIP)

Announcement Type: Initial

Funding Opportunity

Number:

HHS-2008-ACF-OCSE-FI-0005

CFDA Number: 93.601

Due Date for

Applications:

03/ 04/ 2008

Executive Summary:

The Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Office of ChildSupport Enforcement (OCSE), invites eligible applicants to submitcompetitive grant applications for special improvement projects, whichfurther the national child support mission, vision, and goals.Applications will be screened and evaluated as indicated in thisprogram announcement. Awards will be contingent upon the outcomeof the competition and the availability of funds. For Fiscal Year (FY)2008, approximately $800,000 is available for all priority areas. A non-

Federal match is not required.

Program Purpose and Objectives. To fund a number of specialimprovement projects, which further the national child support missionto ensure that all children receive financial and medical support fromtheir parents and which strengthen the ability of the nation's childsupport programs to collect support on behalf of children and families.

OCSE is looking for innovative projects that promote some of the basicthemes of the national strategic plan in that child support should be areliable 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 andreliably. OCSE invites applications for partnerships with entities suchas courts and/or tribunals and faith-based and communityorganizations, which have the ability to address the needs of harder-to-serve populations, such as low-income noncustodial parents andculturally diverse populations.

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Applicants should understand that OCSE will not award grants forspecial improvement projects that: (a) duplicate automated dataprocessing and information retrieval system requirements orenhancements and associated tasks that are specified in the SocialSecurity Act; or (b) cover costs for routine activities that would

normally be reimbursed under the Child Support Program [i.e., addingstaff positions to perform routine Child Support Enforcement (CSE)tasks], or by other Federal funding sources. Proposals and theiraccompanying budgets will be reviewed from this perspective. Forguidance regarding the Department of Health and Human Service'sEqual Treatment for Faith-Based Organizations, see 45 C.F.R. § 87.1for rules that apply to discretionary grant programs.

Given that the purpose of these projects is to improve CSE programs,it is critical that applicants who are not Title IV-D of the Social SecurityAct (IV-D) agencies have the cooperation of IV-D agencies to operate

these projects. In such instances, the Federal OCSE will provide theState CSE agency the opportunity to comment on the merits of localCSE agency applications before final award. Preference will be given toapplicants representing CSE agencies and applicant organizations thathave letters of commitment or cooperative agreements with CSEagencies. All applications developed jointly by more than oneagency/organization must identify a single lead organization as theofficial applicant. The lead organization will be the recipient of thegrant award. Participating agencies and organizations can be includedas co-participants, subgrantees or subcontractors with their written

authorization.

I. FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIP TION

Legislative Authority

Legislative Authority: Section 452(j) of the Social Security Act, 42

United States Code (U.S.C.) 652(j), provides Federal funds forinformation dissemination and technical assistance to States, trainingof Federal and State staff to improve child support programs, andresearch, demonstration, and special projects of regional or nationalsignificance relating to the operation of State child supportenforcement programs.

Funding Opportunity Description

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Applicants are encouraged to review the grant-related materialsposted on the OCSE website athttp://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cse/grants/. The site includesabstracts of recent grants, tips on writing applications, how tocomplete the 424-A form, information on grant writing training,

developing logic models and information about how to submitapplications electronically.

Additionally, please note that the "Objectives and Need for Assistance"criterion directs applicants to identify other successful demonstrationsthat may have implications for their proposed project. Applicants areencouraged to view materials such as Action Transmittals, InformationMemoranda, Dear Colleague Letters, recent publications and annualreports posted on the OCSE website to help formulate their proposals:http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cse/.

Throughout the priorities, OCSE notes that faith-based andcommunity organizations may apply for these grants or serve aspartners to State CSE agencies that are awarded grants under thisannouncement. Organizations and their faith-based communitypartners shall not use direct Federal grants or contracts under theOCSE SIP grants to support inherently religious activities such asreligious instruction, worship or proselytization. Therefore, anorganization must take steps to separate, in time or location, theirinherently religious activities from the OCSE-funded services. Some of the ways organizations may accomplish this include, but are notlimited to, promoting only the Federally funded program in materials,web sites, services or commercials purchased with any portion of theFederal funds. Further, participation in such activity by individualsreceiving services must be voluntary.

A faith-based organization receiving U.S. Department of Health andHuman Services (HHS) funds retains its independence from Federal,State and local governments, and may continue to carry out itsmission, including the definition, practice and expression of itsreligious beliefs. For example, a faith-based organization may usespace in its facilities to provide secular programs or services funded

with Federal funds without removing religious art, icons, scriptures orother religious symbols. In addition, a faith-based organization thatreceives Federal funds retains its authority over its internalgovernance, and it may retain religious terms in its organization'sname, select its board members on a religious basis, and includereligious preferences in its organization's mission statements and othergoverning documents in accordance with all OCSE program

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

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requirements, statutes and other applicable requirement governing theconduct of HHS-funded activities.

Collaborative efforts that focus on a particular ethnicity must beinclusive in nature; that is, outreach and eligibility for services cannot

be limited to a particular ethnic or cultural group.In FY08, OCSE is seeking applications in support of three priorityareas:

Priority Area 1:

Child Support and Paternity Establishment Outreach toTargeted Demographic Groups: Unw ed Teen and "20-

Something" P arents

Priority Area 2:

In itiating Child Support and Court Collaboration to AchieveOperating Efficiencies for Both Entities and Improve Client

Outcomes

Priority Area 3:

Projects in Support of OCSE PAID Initiative (Project to Avoid

Increasing Delinquencies)

Priority Area 1:

Child Support and Paternity Establishment Outreach to TargetedDemographic Groups-Unwed Teen and "20-Something" Parents

Description

According to data from the Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy, themajority of births resulting from unplanned pregnancies are tounmarried women under the age of 24.

OCSE is looking for projects that will demonstrate the effectiveness of designing materials targeted specifically for unwed teens and "20-something" parents. Projects should conduct focus groups of unwed

parents (male and female) who are approximately 24 years of age andyounger to assist in designing and marketing paternity and relatedchild support materials covering the entire child support processincluding paternity establishment, parental responsibilities andenforcement. These materials must be culturally and linguisticallysensitive and incorporate methods of communication used by thetargeted population, such as DVDs, pod casts, video streaming, email,

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text messaging, etc. Over the years, OCSE has funded projects thatfocused efforts on curriculum development and face-to-faceeducational venues, but we are looking for other types of creativecommunication approaches under this solicitation.

Projects should design/conduct a pilot testing strategy before finalizingthese products. Applicants also need to address how they willdistribute these materials cost-effectively to reach the targeteddemographic population and how they will assess, to the extentpossible, the effect of these materials on child support enforcementprogram outcomes.

OCSE encourages collaboration with prenatal service providers, faith-based and community organizations and others that have experiencewith this age group. OCSE also encourages collaborative efforts witheducational institutions, non-profits and other entities that can assist

in professional and cost-effective ways to produce the media selectedto support this effort.

II . AWARD INFORMATION

Funding Instrument Type: Grant

Anticipated Total Priority Area

Funding:

$200,000

Anticipated Number of Aw ards: 2

Ceiling on Amount of I ndividualAwards:

$100,000 per budget period

Floor on Amount of IndividualAwards:

None

Average Projected Award Amount: $100,000 per budget period

Length of Project Periods: 36-month project with three 12-monthbudget periods

OCSE is providing $100,000 for the first 12-month budget period,$25,000 for the second 12-month budget period; and $25,000 for thethird 12-month budget period to provide sufficient time for these

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projects to finalize activities and evaluation reports. Anticipatedfunding for the 36-month project period is a maximum of $150,000,based on the availability of Federal funds and successful grantperformance. An application that exceeds the upper value of the dollarrange specified will be considered non-responsive.

Aw ards under this announcement are subject to the availabilityof funds.

II I. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

1. Eligible Applicants:

• Unrestricted (i.e., open to any type of entity subject to

exceptions specified below.)

Eligibility is open to all types of domestic applicants other thanindividuals.

Faith-based and community organizations are eligible to apply underthis announcement.

Foreign entities are not eligible under this announcement.

2. Cost Sharing or Matching: None

3. Other:

Disqualification Factors

Applications with requests that exceed the ceiling on the amount of individual awards referenced in Section II. Award Information will bedeemed non-responsive and will not be considered for funding underthis announcement.

Any application that fails to satisfy the deadline requirementsreferenced in Section IV.3., Submission Dates and Times, will be

deemed non-responsive and will not be considered for funding underthis announcement.

IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION

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1. Address to Request Application Package:

Jean RobinsonAdministration for Children and FamiliesOffice of Child Support Enforcement

Division of State, Tribal and Local Assistance370 L'Enfant Promenade, S.W., 4th Floor-WestWashington, DC 20447Phone: 202-401-5330Email: [email protected]

2. Content and Form of Application Submission:

The applicant should clearly indicate in the project abstract of theapplication the specific priority area for which it is applying. Applicantsmay submit different applications covering different priority areas or

they may submit different applications for different projects under onepriority area; however, they may not submit one application for

the same project covering multiple priority areas. The length of the application, excluding the required application forms, certifications,and resumes, should be no more than 20 pages, double-spaced formatpreferred. A page is a single-side of an 8 1/2" x 11" sheet of plainwhite paper. (Applicants are requested not to send pamphlets, maps,brochures or other printed material along with their application asthese are difficult to photocopy. These materials, if submitted, will notbe included in the review process.) The project description should

include all the information requirements described in the

specific evaluation criteria outlined in this programannouncement under Par t V .

D-U-N-S Requirement

All applicants must have a D&B Data Universal Numbering System (D-U-N-S) number. On June 27, 2003, the Office of Management andBudget (OMB) published in the Federal Register a new Federal policyapplicable to all Federal grant applicants. The policy requires Federalgrant applicants to provide a D-U-N-S number when applying forFederal grants or cooperative agreements on or after October 1,

2003. The D-U-N-S number will be required whether an applicant issubmitting a paper application or using the government-wideelectronic portal, Grants.gov. A D-U-N-S number will be required forevery application for a new award or renewal/continuation of anaward, including applications or plans under formula, entitlement, andblock grant programs, submitted on or after October 1, 2003.

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mailto:[email protected]

http://www.grants.gov/





Please ensure that your organization has a D-U-N-S number. You mayacquire a D-U-N-S number at no cost by calling the dedicated toll-freeD-U-N-S number request line at 1-866-705-5711 or you may requesta number on-line at http://www.dnb.com.

Proof of Non-Profit Status Non-profit organizations applying for funding are required to submitproof of their non-profit status.

Proof of non-profit status is any one of the following:

• A reference to the applicant organization's listing in the IRS'smost recent list of tax-exempt organizations described in the IRSCode.

• A copy of a currently valid IRS tax-exemption certificate.

• A statement from a State taxing body, State attorney general, orother appropriate State official certifying that the applicantorganization has non-profit status and that none of the netearnings accrue to any private shareholders or individuals.

• A certified copy of the organization's certificate of incorporationor similar document that clearly establishes non-profit status.

• Any of the items in the subparagraphs immediately above for aState or national parent organization and a statement signed by

the parent organization that the applicant organization is a localnon-profit affiliate.

When applying electronically, we strongly suggest that you attach yourproof of non-profit status with your electronic application.

Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with theirapplications the survey titled "Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunityfor Applicants" found under the "Survey" heading at:http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html.

Forms, Assurances, and Certifications

The project description should include all the information requirementsdescribed in the specific evaluation criteria outlined in this programannouncement under Section V. Application Review Information. Inaddition to the project description, the applicant needs to complete allof the Standard Forms required as part of the application process forawards under this announcement.

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Applicants seeking financial assistance under this announcement mustfile the appropriate Standard Forms (SFs) as described in thissection. All applicants must submit an SF-424, Application for FederalAssistance. For non-construction programs, applicants must alsosubmit an SF-424A, Budget Information and an SF-424B,

Assurances. For construction programs, applicants must also submitSF-424C, Budget Information and SF-424D, Assurances. Whenrequired for programs that involve human subjects, the Protection of Human Subjects Assurance Identification/IRB Certification/Declarationof Exemption form must be submitted. All forms may be reproducedfor use in submitting applications. Applicants must sign and return theappropriate standard forms with their application. The Protection of Human Subjects Assurance Identification/IRB Certification/Declarationof Exemption (Common Rule) form may be found at:http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html.

Applicants must furnish, prior to award, an executed copy of theCertification Regarding Lobbying. Applicants must sign and return thecertification with their application. The Certification RegardingLobbying may be found at:http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html. (If any fundshave been paid or will be paid to any person for influencing orattempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, aMember of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or anemployee of a Member of Congress in connection with thiscommitment providing for the United States to insure or guarantee a

loan, the applicant shall complete and submit Standard Form (SF)-LLL,"Disclosure Form to Report Lobbying," in accordance with itsinstructions.)

The Pro-Children Act of 1994, 20 U.S.C. 7183, imposes restrictions onsmoking in facilities where federally funded children's services areprovided. HHS grants are subject to these requirements only if theymeet the Act's specified coverage. The Act specifies that smoking isprohibited in any indoor facility (owned, leased, or contracted for)used for the routine or regular provision of kindergarten, elementary,or secondary education or library services to children under the age of

18. In addition, smoking is prohibited in any indoor facility or portionof a facility (owned, leased, or contracted for) used for the routine orregular provision of federally funded health care, day care, or earlychildhood development, including Head Start services to children underthe age of 18. The statutory prohibition also applies if such facilitiesare constructed, operated, or maintained with Federal funds. Thestatute does not apply to children's services provided in privateresidences, facilities funded solely by Medicare or Medicaid funds,

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portions of facilities used for inpatient drug or alcohol treatment, orfacilities where WIC coupons are redeemed. Failure to comply with theprovisions of the law may result in the imposition of a civil monetarypenalty of up to $1,000 per violation and/or the imposition of anadministrative compliance order on the responsible entity. Additional

information may be found in the HHS Grants Policy Statement at:http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html.

Information on the Certification Regarding Program Fraud CivilRemedies Act (PFCRA) may be found in the HHS Grants PolicyStatement at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html.

Applicants must make the appropriate certification of their compliancewith all Federal statutes relating to nondiscrimination. By signing andsubmitting the application, applicants are providing the necessarycertification. Where return of a form is required, complete the

standard forms and the associated certifications and assurances basedon the instructions found on the forms. The forms and certificationsmay be found at:http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html.

Information on the Privacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C. 552a) and theFreedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C 552) or FOIA may be found in theHHS Grants Policy Statement at:http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html.

Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with their

applications the survey titled "Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunityfor Applicants" found under the "Survey" heading at:http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html.

Please see Section V.1 for instructions on preparing the full projectdescription.

Please reference Section IV.3 for details about acknowledgement of received applications.

Electronic Submission

Applicants to ACF may submit their applications in either electronic orpaper format. To submit an application electronically, please use thehttp://www.Grants.gov site.

When using www.Grants.gov, applicants will be able to download acopy of the application package, complete it off-line, and then uploadand submit the application via the www.Grants.gov site. ACF will notaccept grant applications via facsimile or email.

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Acceptable electronic formats for the application attachments(narratives, charts, etc.) must use the following standard technologies,i.e., Microsoft (Word and Excel), Word Perfect, Adobe PDF, Jpeg, andGif.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Before submitting an electronic application,applicants must complete the organization registration process as wellas obtain and register "electronic signature credentials" for theAuthorized Organization Representative (AOR). Since this process maytake more than five business days, it is important to start this processearly, well in advance of the application deadline. Be sure tocomplete all ww w.Grants.gov registration processes listed on

the Organization Registration Checklist, which can be found athttp://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/registration_checklist.html.

Please note the following if planning to submit an application

electronically via www.Grants.gov:

• Electronic submission is voluntary, but strongly encouraged.

• Applicants may access the electronic application for this programat http://www.Grants.gov. There applicants can search for thedownloadable application package by utilizing thewww.Grants.gov FIND function.

• It is strongly recommended that applicants do not w aituntil the application deadline date to begin the application

process through w ww.Grants.gov. Applicants areencouraged to submit their applications well before the closingdate and time so that if difficulties are encountered there will stillbe sufficient time to submit a hard copy via express mail. It is

to an applicant's advantage to submit 24 hours ahead of the closing date and time in order to address anydifficulties that may be encountered.

• To use www.Grants.gov, you, the applicant must have a D-U-N-S number and register in the Central Contractor Registry(CCR). Applicants should allow a minimum of five days to

complete the CCR registration. REMINDER: CCR registrationexpires each year and thus must be updated annually.Applicants cannot upload an application towww.Grants.gov w ithout having a current CCR

registration AND electronic signature credentials for theAOR.

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• The electronic application is submitted by the AOR. To submitelectronically, the AOR must obtain and register electronicsignature credentials approved by the organization's E-BusinessPoint of Contact who maintains the organization's CCRregistration.

• Applicants may submit all documents electronically, including allinformation typically included on the SF-424 and all necessaryassurances and certifications.

• Though applying electronically, the application must still complywith any page limitation requirements described in this programannouncement.

• After the application is submitted electronically, the applicant willreceive an automatic acknowledgement from www.Grants.gov

that contains a www.Grants.gov tracking number. ACF willretrieve the electronically submitted application fromwww.Grants.gov.

• ACF may request that the applicant provide original signatureson forms at a later date.

• Applicants will not receive additional point value for submitting agrant application in electronic format, nor will ACF penalize anapplicant if they submit an application in hard copy.

• If any difficulties are encountered in using www.Grants.gov,please contact the Grants.gov Contact Center at: 1-800-518-4726, or by email at [email protected] to report the problemand obtain assistance.

• Checklists and registration brochures are maintained to assistapplicants in the registration process and may be found at:http://www.grants.gov/applicants/get_registered.jsp.

• When submitting electronically via www.Grants.gov, applicantsmust comply with all due dates AND times referenced in Section

IV.3. Submission Dates and Times.

• For applicants that must demonstrate proof of non-profit statusbefore the award date, ACF strongly suggests that proof of non-profit status be attached to the electronic application. Proof of non-profit status and any other required documentation may bescanned and attached as an "Other Attachment." Acceptable

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types of proof of non-profit status are stated earlier in thissection.

• The Grants.gov website complies with Section 508 of theRehabilitation Act of 1973. Grants.gov webpages are designed to

work with assistive technologies such as screen readers. If anapplicant uses assistive technology and is unable to access anymaterial on the site, email the www.Grants.gov contact center [email protected] for assistance.

Hard Copy Submission

Applicants that are submitting their application in paper format shouldsubmit one original and two copies of the complete application. Theoriginal and each of the two copies must include all required forms,certifications, assurances, and appendices, be signed by an authorized

representative, and be unbound. The original copy of the applicationmust have original signature(s).

3. Submission Dates and Times:

Due Date for Applications: 03/ 04/ 2008

Explanation of Due Dates

The due date for receipt of applications is referencedabove. Applications received after 4:30 p.m., eastern time, on thedue date will be classified as late and will not be considered in the

current competition.

Applicants are responsible for ensuring that applications are mailed orhand-delivered or submitted electronically well in advance of theapplication due date and time.

Mail

Applications that are submitted by mail must be received no later than4:30 p.m., eastern time, on the due date referenced above at theaddress listed in Section IV.6.

Hand Delivery

Applications hand carried by applicants, applicant couriers, otherrepresentatives of the applicant, or by overnight/express mail couriersmust be received on or before the due date referenced above, betweenthe hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., eastern time, at the address

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referenced in Section IV.6., between Monday and Friday (excludingFederal holidays).


Applications submitted electronically via Grants.gov must be submitted

no later than 4:30 p.m., eastern time, on the due date referencedabove.

ACF cannot accommodate transmission of applications by facsimile oremail.

Late Applications

Applications that do not meet the requirements above are consideredlate applications. ACF shall notify each late applicant that itsapplication will not be considered in the current competition.

ANY APPLI CATION RECEIVED AFTER 4:30 P .M., EASTERN TIME,ON THE DUE DATE WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED FOR

COMPETITION.

Extension of Deadlines

ACF may extend application deadlines when circumstances such asacts of God (floods, hurricanes, etc.) occur; when there arewidespread disruptions of mail service; or in other rare cases. Adetermination to extend or waive deadline requirements rests with theChief Grants Management Officer.

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

Checklist

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

What to Submit RequiredContent Required Form or Format When toSubmit

SF-424 See SectionIV.2

Seehttp://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html

Byapplicationdue date.

SF-424A See SectionIV.2

Seehttp://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resourc

Byapplication

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es.html due date.

Table of Contents See SectionV

Found in Section V Byapplicationdue date.

ProjectSummary/Abstract

SeeSectionsIV.2 and V

Found in Sections IV.2 and V Byapplicationdue date.

Project Description SeeSectionsIV.2 and V


Budget andBudgetJustification



Proof of Non-ProfitStatus


Found in Sections IV.2 and V By date of award.

CertificationRegardingLobbying

See SectionIV.2


By date of award.

CertificationRegardingEnvironmentalTobacco Smoke

See SectionIV.2


By date of award.

Additional Forms


What toSubmit

RequiredContent Required Form or Format

When toSubmit

Survey onEnsuringEqualOpportunityforApplicants

See form. Seehttp://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html


4. Intergovernmental Review of Federal P rograms:

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State Single Point of Contact (SPOC)

This program is covered under Executive Order (Exec. Order) 12372,"Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs," and 45 CFR Part100, "Intergovernmental Review of Department of Health and Human

Services Programs and Activities." Under the Exec. Order, States maydesign their own processes for reviewing and commenting on proposedFederal assistance under covered programs.

The official list of the jurisdictions that have elected to participate inExec. Order 12372, including addresses and contact persons, may befound on the following URL:http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html.

Applicants from participating jurisdictions should contact their SPOC,as soon as possible, to alert them of prospective applications andreceive instructions. Applicants must submit all required materials tothe SPOC and indicate the date of this submittal (or the date of contactif no submittal is required) on the Standard Form (SF) 424, item 19.

Under 45 CFR 100.8(a)(2), a SPOC has 60 days from the applicationdue date to comment on proposed new or competing continuationawards. SPOCs are encouraged to eliminate the submission of routineendorsements as official recommendations. Additionally, SPOCs arerequested to clearly differentiate between mere advisory commentsand official State process recommendations, which may trigger the"accommodate or explain" rule.

Comments submitted directly to ACF should be addressed to the U.S.Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Childrenand Families, Office of Grants Management, Division of DiscretionaryGrants, 370 L'Enfant Promenade SW., 6th Floor, Washington, DC20447.

Although some jurisdictions have chosen not to participate in thisprocess, entities that meet the eligibility requirements of the ProgramAnnouncement are still eligible to apply for a grant even if a State,Territory, or Commonwealth, etc., does not have a SPOC. Therefore,applicants from these jurisdictions, or for projects administered byFederally-recognized Indian Tribes, need take no action in regard toExec. Order 12372.

5. Funding Restrictions:

Costs of organized fund raising, including financial campaigns,endowment drives, solicitation of gifts and bequests, and similar

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http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html




expenses incurred solely to raise capital or obtain contributions, areunallowable.

Grant awards will not allow reimbursement of pre-award costs.

Construction and purchase of real property are not allowable activities

or expenditures under this grant award.

6. Other Submission Requirements:

Please see Sections IV.2 and IV.3 for deadline information and otherapplication requirements.

Submit applications to one of the following addresses:

Submission by Mail

Ben L. Sharp

Administration for Children and FamiliesOffice of Grants Management, Division of Discretionary GrantSIP Grants370 L'Enfant Promenade, S.W., 6th Floor-EastWashington, DC 20447

Hand Delivery

Ben L. SharpAdministration for Children and FamiliesACF Mailroom

Aerospace Building 2nd Floor (near loading dock)901 D Street, S.W.,Washington , DC 20447


Please see Section IV.2 for guidelines and requirements whensubmitting applications electronically via http://www.Grants.gov.

V. APP LICATION REVIEW INFORMATION

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

Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated toaverage 40 hours per response, including the time for reviewinginstructions, gathering and maintaining the data needed and reviewingthe collection information.

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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 requiredto respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a currently

valid OMB control number.1. Criteria:

Part I THE PROJECT DESCRIPTION OVERVIEW

PURPOSE

The project description provides the majority of information by whichan application is evaluated and ranked in competition with otherapplications for available assistance. The project description should beconcise and complete. It should address the activity for which Federal

funds are being requested. Supporting documents should be includedwhere they can present information clearly and succinctly. Inpreparing the project description, information that is responsive toeach of the requested evaluation criteria must be provided. Awardingoffices use this and other information in making their fundingrecommendations. It is important, therefore, that this information beincluded in the application in a manner that is clear and complete.

GENERAL EXPECTATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS

ACF is particularly interested in specific project descriptions that focus

on outcomes and convey strategies for achieving intendedperformance. Project descriptions are evaluated on the basis of substance and measurable outcomes, not length. Extensive exhibitsare not required. Cross-referencing should be used rather thanrepetition. Supporting information concerning activities that will not bedirectly funded by the grant or information that does not directlypertain to an integral part of the grant-funded activity should beplaced in an appendix.

Part II GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR PREPARING A FULL PROJECTDESCRIPTION

INTRODUCTION

Applicants that are required to submit a full project description shallprepare the project description statement in accordance with thefollowing instructions while being aware of the specified evaluationcriteria. The text options give a broad overview of what the project

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description should include while the evaluation criteria identify themeasures that will be used to evaluate applications.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

List the contents of the application including corresponding page

numbers.

PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT

Provide a summary of the project description (one page or less) withreference 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 assistancemust be demonstrated and the principal and subordinate objectives of the project must be clearly stated; supporting documentation, such asletters of support and testimonials from concerned interests other thanthe applicant, may be included. Any relevant data based on planningstudies 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 mayvolunteer 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 programannouncement.

RESULTS OR BENEFITS EXPECTED

Identify the results and benefits to be derived.

For example, increased use of an interstate CSE remedy (e.g., asincome withholding, tax refund offset) is projected to have quarterlyresults of a five percent increase in income withholding collections anda five percent increase in automated enforcement collections. Whenaccomplishments cannot be quantified by activity or function, list themin chronological order to show the schedule of accomplishments andtheir target dates. If any data are to be collected, maintained, and/ordisseminated, clearance may be required from OMB. This clearancepertains to any "collection of information that is conducted orsponsored 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 orcontribution.

19



APPROACH

Outline a plan of action that describes the scope and detail of how theproposed work will be accomplished. Account for all functions oractivities identified in the application. Cite factors that might accelerate

or decelerate the work and state your reason for taking the proposedapproach rather than others. Describe any unusual features of theproject such as design or technological innovations, reductions in costor time, or extraordinary social and community involvement.

Provide quantitative monthly or quarterly projections of theaccomplishments to be achieved for each function or activity in suchterms 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 OMB. This clearance pertains to any"collection of information that is conducted or sponsored by ACF."

Provide a list of organizations, cooperating entities, consultants, orother key individuals who will work on the project along with a shortdescription of the nature of their effort or contribution.

EVALUATION

Provide a narrative addressing how the conduct of the project and theresults of the project will be evaluated. In addressing the evaluationof results, state how you will determine the extent to which the projecthas achieved its stated objectives and the extent to which theaccomplishment of objectives can be attributed to the project. Discussthe criteria to be used to evaluate results, and explain themethodology that will be used to determine if the needs identified anddiscussed are being met and if the project results and benefits arebeing achieved. With respect to the conduct of the project, define theprocedures to be employed to determine whether the project is being

conducted in a manner consistent with the work plan presented anddiscuss the impact of the project's various activities that address theproject's effectiveness.

GEOGRAPHIC LOCATION

20



Describe the precise location of the project and boundaries of the areato be served by the proposed project. Maps or other graphic aids maybe attached.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The following are requests for additional information that must beincluded in the application:

ELIGIBILITY CERTIFICATIONApplicants must provide the following as certification of theireligibility under this program announcement. Please provide:

PROOF OF NON-PROFIT STATUSNon-profit organizations applying for funding are required tosubmit proof of their non-profit status.


• A reference to the applicant organization's listing in theIRS's most recent list of tax-exempt organizationsdescribed in the IRS Code.


• A statement from a State taxing body, State attorneygeneral, or other appropriate State official certifying thatthe applicant organization has non-profit status and that

none of the net earnings accrue to any privateshareholders or individuals.

• A certified copy of the organization's certificate of incorporation or similar document that clearly establishesnon-profit status.

• Any of the items in the subparagraphs immediately abovefor a State or national parent organization and a statementsigned by the parent organization that the applicantorganization is a local non-profit affiliate.

When applying electronically, we strongly suggest that youattach your proof of non-profit status with your electronicapplication.

BUDGET AND BUDGET JUSTIFICATION

21



Provide a budget with line-item detail and detailed calculations foreach budget object class identified on the Budget Information Form(SF-424A or SF-424C). Detailed calculations must include estimationmethods, quantities, unit costs, and other similar quantitative detailsufficient for the calculation to be duplicated. If matching is a

requirement, include a breakout by the funding sources identified inBlock 15 of the SF-424.

Provide a narrative budget justification that describes how thecategorical costs are derived. Discuss the necessity, reasonableness,and allocation of the proposed costs.

GENERALUse the following guidelines for preparing the budget and budget justification. Both Federal and non-Federal resources (whenrequired) shall be detailed and justified in the budget and budget

narrative justification. "Federal resources" refers only to theACF grant funds for which you are applying. "Non-Federalresources" are all other non-ACF Federal and non-Federalresources. It is suggested that budget amounts andcomputations be presented in a columnar format: first column,object class categories; second column, Federal budget; nextcolumn(s), non-Federal budget(s); and last column, totalbudget. The budget justification should be in a narrative form.

PERSONNELDescription: Costs of employee salaries and wages.

Justification: Identify the project director or principalinvestigator, if known at the time of application. For each staff person, provide: the title; time commitment to the project inmonths; time commitment to the project as a percentage or full-time equivalent; annual salary; grant salary; wage rates;etc. Do not include the costs of consultants, personnel costs of delegate agencies, or of specific project(s) and/or businesses tobe financed by the applicant.

FRINGE BENEFITS

Description: Costs of employee fringe benefits unless treated aspart of an approved indirect cost rate.

Justification: Provide a breakdown of the amounts andpercentages that comprise fringe benefit costs such as healthinsurance, FICA, retirement insurance, taxes, etc.

TRAVEL

22



Description: Costs of project-related travel by employees of theapplicant organization. (This item does not include costs of consultant travel).

Justification: For each trip show: the total number of

traveler(s); travel destination; duration of trip; per diem;mileage allowances, if privately owned vehicles will be used; andother transportation costs and subsistence allowances. If appropriate for this project, travel costs for key staff to attendACF-sponsored workshops should be detailed in the budget.

EQUIPMENTDescription: "Equipment" means an article of nonexpendable,tangible personal property having a useful life of more than oneyear and an acquisition cost that equals or exceeds the lesserof: (a) the capitalization level established by the organization

for the financial statement purposes, or (b) $5,000. (Note:Acquisition cost means the net invoice unit price of an item of equipment, including the cost of any modifications, attachments,accessories, or auxiliary apparatus necessary to make it usablefor the purpose for which it is acquired. Ancillary charges, suchas taxes, duty, protective in-transit insurance, freight, andinstallation, shall be included in or excluded from acquisition costin accordance with the organization's regular written accountingpractices.)

Justification: For each type of equipment requested provide: a

description of the equipment; the cost per unit; the number of units; the total cost; and a plan for use on the project; as well asuse and/or disposal of the equipment after the project ends. Anapplicant organization that uses its own definition for equipmentshould provide a copy of its policy, or section of its policy, thatincludes the equipment definition.

SUPPLIESDescription: Costs of all tangible personal property other thanthat included under the Equipment category.

Justification: Specify general categories of supplies and theircosts. Show computations and provide other information thatsupports the amount requested.

CONTRACTUALDescription: Costs of all contracts for services and goods exceptfor those that belong under other categories such as equipment,supplies, construction, etc. Include third-party evaluation

23



contracts, if applicable, and contracts with secondary recipientorganizations, including delegate agencies and specific project(s)and/or businesses to be financed by the applicant.

Justification: Demonstrate that all procurement transactions will

be conducted in a manner to provide, to the maximum extentpractical, open and free competition. Recipients andsubrecipients, other than States that are required to use 45 CFRPart 92 procedures, must justify any anticipated procurementaction that is expected to be awarded without competition andexceeds the simplified acquisition threshold fixed at 41 USC403(11), currently set at $100,000.

Recipients might be required to make available to ACF pre-awardreview and procurement documents, such as requests forproposals or invitations for bids, independent cost estimates,

etc.

Note: Whenever the applicant intends to delegate part of theproject to another agency, the applicant must provide a detailedbudget and budget narrative for each delegate agency, byagency title, along with the required supporting informationreferred to in these instructions.

INDIRECT CHARGESDescription: Total amount of indirect costs. This categoryshould be used only when the applicant currently has an indirect

cost rate approved by the Department of Health and HumanServices (HHS) or another cognizant Federal agency.

Justification: An applicant that will charge indirect costs to thegrant must enclose a copy of the current rate agreement. If theapplicant organization is in the process of initially developing orrenegotiating a rate, upon notification that an award will bemade, it should immediately develop a tentative indirect costrate proposal based on its most recently completed fiscal year, inaccordance with the cognizant agency's guidelines forestablishing indirect cost rates, and submit it to the cognizant

agency. Applicants awaiting approval of their indirect costproposals may also request indirect costs. When an indirect costrate is requested, those costs included in the indirect cost poolshould not be charged as direct costs to the grant. Also, if theapplicant is requesting a rate that is less than what is allowedunder the program, the authorized representative of theapplicant organization must submit a signed acknowledgementthat the applicant is accepting a lower rate than allowed.

24



PROGRAM INCOMEDescription: The estimated amount of income, if any, expectedto be generated from this project.

Justification: Describe the nature, source and anticipated use of

program income in the budget or refer to the pages in theapplication that contain this information.

NON-FEDERAL RESOURCESDescription: Amounts of non-Federal resources that will be usedto support the project as identified in Block 15 of the SF-424.

Justification: The firm commitment of these resources must bedocumented and submitted with the application so that theapplicant is given credit in the review process. A detailed budgetmust be prepared for each funding source.

TOTAL DIRECT CHARGES, TOTAL INDIRECT CHARGES, TOTALPROJECT COSTS

EVALUATION CRITERIA:

The corresponding score values indicate the relative importance thatACF places on each evaluation criterion; however, applicants need notdevelop their applications precisely according to the order presented.Application components may be organized such that a reviewer will beable to follow a seamless and logical flow of information (i.e., from abroad overview of the project to more detailed information about how

it will be conducted).

In considering how applicants will carry out the responsibilitiesaddressed under this announcement, competing applications forfinancial assistance will be reviewed and evaluated against thefollowing criteria:

OBJECTIVES AND NEED FOR ASSISTANCE - 30 points

The applicant should demonstrate a thorough understanding andanalysis of the problem(s) being addressed in the project, the need forassistance and the importance of addressing these problems inimproving the effectiveness of the child support program. Theapplicant should describe how the project will address this problem(s)through implementation of changes, enhancements and innovativeefforts and specifically how this project will improve program results.The applicant should address one or more of the strategies orapproaches described under the specific priority area for which theyare applying (refer to Section I).

25



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

APPROACH - 30 pointsA well thought-out and practical management and staffing plan ismandatory. The applicant should include a detailed management planthat includes timelines and discussion of major task activities. Themain concern in this criterion is that the applicant should demonstratea clear idea of the project's goals, objectives and tasks to beaccomplished. The plan to accomplish the goals and tasks should beset forth in a logical framework. The plan should identify what tasksare required of any contractors and specify their relevant qualificationsto 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 andmanagement staff) at the State and/or local levels must be identifiedby their role in the project along with their qualifications and areas of particular expertise. In addition, for any technical expertise obtainedthrough a contract or subgrant, the desired technical expertise andskills of proposed positions should be specified in detail. The applicantshould demonstrate that persons with the skills needed to operate theproject are on board or can be obtained within a reasonable time.

EVALUATION - 25 points

The applicant should describe how the success of this project can bemeasured and how the success of this project has broader applicationin contributing to CSE policies, practices, and/or providing solutionsthat could be adapted by other States/jurisdictions. The applicantshould include a process analysis plan of how the project was designedand implemented, how focus groups were selected, how materialswere developed and disseminated, how well they reached the targetaudience, etc.

The outcome evaluation plan should describe the results/products thatwill be achieved; as appropriate, identify the kinds of data to becollected and maintained to track outcomes; describe procedures forinformed consent of participants, where applicable; and discuss thecriteria to be used to evaluate the results of the project. The outcomeevaluation should include a comparison of before and after theproject's experience, as appropriate, to demonstrate the results

26



achieved. Possible outcome measures may include an increasedunderstanding of parental responsibilities, paternity establishment,and child support obligations, etc.

BUDGET AND BUDGET JUSTIFICATION - 10 points

The project costs need to be reasonable in relation to the identifiedtasks, including the evaluation component, and be reasonably cost-effective in relation to the size of the caseload served and the projectimpacts/results to 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 Temporary Assistancefor Needy Families (TANF) or Head Start] that will be committed to theproject. Consultant or contractor personnel costs should also bedelineated.

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

PREFERENCE - 5 points

Preference will be given to those grant applicants representing IV-D

agencies or applicant organizations who have documented State, localor Tribal IV-D agency commitment to the project, either through acooperative agreement or letter of commitment, which needs to besigned by the agency head and attached to the application.

2. Review and Selection Process:

No grant award will be made under this announcement on the basis of an incomplete application.

Initial ACF Screening: Each application will be screened to determine

whether it was received by the closing date and time and whether therequested amount exceeds the stated ceiling. Late applications orthose exceeding the funding limit will be returned to the applicantswith a notation that they were unacceptable and will not be reviewed.

Each application submitted under this program announcement willundergo a pre-review to determine that: (1) the application wasreceived by the closing date and submitted in accordance with the

27



instructions in this announcement and (2) the applicant is eligible forfunding. Applicants need to state specifically for which priority areathey are applying in the project abstract. Applications will be screenedfor priority area appropriateness. If applications are found to beinappropriate for the priority area in which they are submitted,

applicants will be contacted to provide a written request to redirect theapplication to a more appropriate priority area.

Applications that pass the initial ACF screening will be evaluated andrated by an independent review panel on the basis of specificevaluation criteria. The results of these reviews will assist the OCSECommissioner and program staff in considering competingapplications. Reviewers' scores will weigh heavily in funding decisionsbut will not be the only factors considered. Applications generally willbe 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, butare not limited to, the number of similar types of existing grants orprojects funded with OCSE funds in the last five years; comments of reviewers and government officials; staff evaluation andinput; previous program performance of applicants; compliance withgrant terms under previous HHS grants; audit reports; investigativereports; an applicant's progress in resolving any final auditdisallowance on previous OCSE or other Federal agency grants. OCSEwill consider the geographic distribution of funds among States andthe relative proportion of funding among rural and urban areas. The

evaluation criteria were designed to assess the quality of a proposedproject, and to determine the likelihood of its success. The evaluationcriteria are closely related and are considered as a whole in judgingthe overall quality of an application. Points are awarded only toapplications that are responsive to the evaluation criteria within thecontext of this program announcement.

Approved but Unfunded Applications

Applications that are approved but unfunded may be held over forfunding in the next funding cycle, pending the availability of funds, for

a period not to exceed one year.3. Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates:

Not Applicable

VI. AWARD ADMINI STRATION INFORMATION

28





with the Federal Government" at:http://www.whitehouse.gov/government/fbci/guidance/index.html.

HHS Grants Policy Statement

The HHS Grants Policy Statement (GPS) is the Department of Health

and Human Services new single policy guide for discretionary grantsand cooperative agreements. Unlike previous HHS policy documents,the GPS is intended to be shared with and used by grantees. Itbecame effective October 1, 2006 and is applicable to all OperatingDivisions (OPDIVS), such as the Administration for Children andFamilies (ACF), except the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The GPScovers basic grants processes, standard terms and conditions andpoints of contact as well as important OPDIV-specific requirements.Appendices include a glossary of terms and a list of standardabbreviations for ease of reference. The GPS may be accessed at

http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html.

3. Reporting Requirements:

Grantees will be required to submit program progress and financialreports (SF-269 found at:http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html) throughout theproject period. Program progress and financial reports are due 30 daysafter the reporting period. Final programmatic and financial reports aredue 90 days after the close of the project period.

Final reports may be submitted in hard copy to the Grants

Management Office Contact listed in Section VII of this announcement.

Program Progress Reports: QuarterlyFinancial Reports: Semi-Annually

VII . AGENCY CONTACTS

Program Office Contact:

Jean RobinsonAdministration for Children and FamiliesOffice of Child Support EnforcementDivision of State, Tribal and Local Assistance370 L'Enfant Promenade, S.W.,Washington , DC 20447

30

http://www.whitehouse.gov/government/fbci/guidance/index.html








Phone: 202-401-5330Email: [email protected]

Grants Management Office Contact:

Ben L. Sharp

Adminstration for Children and FamiliesOffice of Grants Management, Division of Discretionary GrantsSIP Grants370 L'Enfanct Promenade, S.W., 6th Floor-EastWashington , DC 20447Phone: 202-401-5513Email: [email protected]

VII I. OTHER INFORMATION

Priority Area 2:

Initiating Child Support and Court Collaboration to Improve OperatingEfficiencies of Both Entities and Client Outcomes

Description

This priority area is intended to fund collaborative initiatives betweenrelated courts and State, local and/or Tribal IV-D agencies with a goalof improving client outcomes and efficiencies for both entities.Initiatives must address one or more of the following strategies forpredominantly IV-D cases: improving service of process; avoidinginappropriate orders; using problem-solving techniques in the courtsfor child support cases; implementing electronic data exchange ortechnology in the courtroom for greater efficiency in meeting clientneeds; improving methods of identifying and securing health care

coverage for children; reengineering business processes affecting bothchild support and the courts; and partnering to educate parents aboutchild support within the court process and about their child supportresponsibilities.

Proposals must address improvements expected for both child supportand the court(s) and how client outcomes will be measured. Inparticular, applicants should address how the project will substantially

31







impact performance in terms of caseload size and programresults. Only court costs funded under the regular IV-D program areallowable under this grant.

Five bonus points will be given to projects that coordinate with the IV-

A agency, the workforce investment agency or a local faith-based orcommunity organization to provide employment services for non-custodial parents. Employment services should be funded by theseagencies/organizations' sources (not by IV-D funds). To receive bonuspoints, proposals must include signed letters from theseagencies/organizations of intent to partner with child support in thisendeavor.




Funding:

$300,000


Ceiling on Amount of I ndividualAwards:


Floor on Amount of Individual

Awards:

None



OCSE is providing $100,000 for the first 12-month budget period,$25,000 for the second 12-month budget period, and $25,000 for thethird 12-month budget period to provide sufficient time for theseprojects to finalize activities and evaluation reports. Anticipatedfunding for the 36-month project period is a maximum of $150,000,based on the availability of Federal funds and successful grantperformance. An application that exceeds the upper value of the dollarrange specified will be considered non-responsive.

32





370 L'Enfant Promenade, S.W., 4th Floor-WestWashington, DC 20447Phone: 202-401-5330Email: [email protected]


The applicant should clearly indicate in the project abstract of theapplication the specific priority area for which it is applying. Applicantsmay submit different applications covering different priority areas orthey may submit different applications for different projects under onepriority area; how ever, they may not submit one application for

the same project covering multiple priority areas. The length of the application, excluding the required application forms, certifications,and resumes, should be about 20 pages, double-spaced formatpreferred. 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 asthese are difficult to photocopy. These materials, if submitted, will notbe included in the review process.) The project description shouldinclude all the information requirements described in the

specific evaluation criteria outlined in this programannouncement under Sect ion V.

D-U-N-S Requirement

All applicants must have a D&B Data Universal Numbering System (D-

U-N-S) number. On June 27, 2003, the Office of Management andBudget (OMB) published in the Federal Register a new Federal policyapplicable to all Federal grant applicants. The policy requires Federalgrant applicants to provide a D-U-N-S number when applying forFederal grants or cooperative agreements on or after October 1,2003. The D-U-N-S number will be required whether an applicant issubmitting a paper application or using the government-wideelectronic portal, Grants.gov. A D-U-N-S number will be required forevery application for a new award or renewal/continuation of anaward, including applications or plans under formula, entitlement, andblock grant programs, submitted on or after October 1, 2003.


Proof of Non-Profit Status

34









Non-profit organizations applying for funding are required to submitproof of their non-profit status.






• Any of the items in the subparagraphs immediately above for aState or national parent organization and a statement signed bythe parent organization that the applicant organization is a localnon-profit affiliate.






35





Assurances. For construction programs, applicants must also submitSF-424C, Budget Information and SF-424D, Assurances. Whenrequired for programs that involve human subjects, the Protection of Human Subjects Assurance Identification/IRB Certification/Declarationof Exemption form must be submitted. All forms may be reproduced

for use in submitting applications. Applicants must sign and return theappropriate standard forms with their application. The Protection of Human Subjects Assurance Identification/IRB Certification/Declarationof Exemption (Common Rule) form may be found at:http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html.

Applicants must furnish, prior to award, an executed copy of theCertification Regarding Lobbying. Applicants must sign and return thecertification with their application. The Certification RegardingLobbying may be found at:http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html. (If any funds

have been paid or will be paid to any person for influencing orattempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, aMember of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or anemployee of a Member of Congress in connection with thiscommitment providing for the United States to insure or guarantee aloan, the applicant shall complete and submit Standard Form (SF)-LLL,"Disclosure Form to Report Lobbying," in accordance with itsinstructions.)

The Pro-Children Act of 1994, 20 U.S.C. 7183, imposes restrictions onsmoking in facilities where federally funded children's services areprovided. HHS grants are subject to these requirements only if theymeet the Act's specified coverage. The Act specifies that smoking isprohibited in any indoor facility (owned, leased, or contracted for)used for the routine or regular provision of kindergarten, elementary,or secondary education or library services to children under the age of 18. In addition, smoking is prohibited in any indoor facility or portionof a facility (owned, leased, or contracted for) used for the routine orregular provision of federally funded health care, day care, or earlychildhood development, including Head Start services to children underthe age of 18. The statutory prohibition also applies if such facilities

are constructed, operated, or maintained with Federal funds. Thestatute does not apply to children's services provided in privateresidences, facilities funded solely by Medicare or Medicaid funds,portions of facilities used for inpatient drug or alcohol treatment, orfacilities where WIC coupons are redeemed. Failure to comply with theprovisions of the law may result in the imposition of a civil monetarypenalty of up to $1,000 per violation and/or the imposition of anadministrative compliance order on the responsible entity. Additional

36








Information on the Certification Regarding Program Fraud CivilRemedies Act (PFCRA) may be found in the HHS Grants Policy

Statement at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html.Applicants must make the appropriate certification of their compliancewith all Federal statutes relating to nondiscrimination. By signing andsubmitting the application, applicants are providing the necessarycertification. Where return of a form is required, complete thestandard forms and the associated certifications and assurances basedon the instructions found on the forms. The forms and certificationsmay be found at:http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html.


Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with theirapplications the survey titled "Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity

for Applicants" found under the "Survey" heading at:http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html.





When using www.Grants.gov, applicants will be able to download a

copy of the application package, complete it off-line, and then uploadand submit the application via the www.Grants.gov site. ACF will notaccept grant applications via facsimile or email.


37















IMPORTANT NOTE: Before submitting an electronic application,applicants must complete the organization registration process as wellas obtain and register "electronic signature credentials" for theAuthorized Organization Representative (AOR). Since this process maytake more than five business days, it is important to start this process

early, well in advance of the application deadline. Be sure tocomplete all ww w.Grants.gov registration processes listed on


Please note the following if planning to submit an applicationelectronically via www.Grants.gov:


• Applicants may access the electronic application for this program

at http://www.Grants.gov. There applicants can search for thedownloadable application package by utilizing thewww.Grants.gov FIND function.


process through w ww.Grants.gov. Applicants areencouraged to submit their applications well before the closingdate and time so that if difficulties are encountered there will stillbe sufficient time to submit a hard copy via express mail. It isto an applicant's advantage to submit 24 hours ahead of

the closing date and time in order to address anydifficulties that may be encountered.

• To use www.Grants.gov, you, the applicant must have a D-U-N-S number and register in the Central Contractor Registry(CCR). Applicants should allow a minimum of five days tocomplete the CCR registration. REMINDER: CCR registration

expires each year and thus must be updated annually.Applicants cannot upload an application towww.Grants.gov w ithout having a current CCR



38








• Though applying electronically, the application must still comply

with any page limitation requirements described in this programannouncement.

• After the application is submitted electronically, the applicant willreceive an automatic acknowledgement from www.Grants.govthat contains a www.Grants.gov tracking number. ACF willretrieve the electronically submitted application fromwww.Grants.gov.




• Checklists and registration brochures are maintained to assist

applicants in the registration process and may be found at:http://www.grants.gov/applicants/get_registered.jsp.



• For applicants that must demonstrate proof of non-profit statusbefore the award date, ACF strongly suggests that proof of non-profit status be attached to the electronic application. Proof of non-profit status and any other required documentation may be

scanned and attached as an "Other Attachment." Acceptabletypes of proof of non-profit status are stated earlier in thissection.

• The Grants.gov website complies with Section 508 of theRehabilitation Act of 1973. Grants.gov webpages are designed towork with assistive technologies such as screen readers. If anapplicant uses assistive technology and is unable to access any

39







material on the site, email the www.Grants.gov contact center [email protected] for assistance.


Applicants that are submitting their application in paper format shouldsubmit one original and two copies of the complete application. Theoriginal and each of the two copies must include all required forms,certifications, assurances, and appendices, be signed by an authorizedrepresentative, and be unbound. The original copy of the applicationmust have original signature(s).




The due date for receipt of applications is referencedabove. Applications received after 4:30 p.m., eastern time, on thedue date will be classified as late and will not be considered in thecurrent competition.


Mail


Hand Delivery

Applications hand carried by applicants, applicant couriers, otherrepresentatives of the applicant, or by overnight/express mail couriersmust be received on or before the due date referenced above, betweenthe hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., eastern time, at the addressreferenced in Section IV.6., between Monday and Friday (excluding

Federal holidays).


Applications submitted electronically via Grants.gov must be submittedno later than 4:30 p.m., eastern time, on the due date referencedabove.

40






Late Applications

Applications that do not meet the requirements above are considered

late applications. ACF shall notify each late applicant that itsapplication will not be considered in the current competition.


COMPETITION.


ACF may extend application deadlines when circumstances such asacts of God (floods, hurricanes, etc.) occur; when there are

widespread disruptions of mail service; or in other rare cases. Adetermination to extend or waive deadline requirements rests with theChief Grants Management Officer.


Checklist

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

application package.

What to SubmitRequiredContent Required Form or Format

When toSubmit

SF-424 SeeSectionIV.2



SF-424A SeeSectionIV.2



Table of Contents SeeSection V



SeeSectionsIV.2 and


41













V

Project Description SeeSectionsIV.2 andV


Budget and BudgetJustification

SeeSectionsIV.2 andV





Certification

Regarding Lobbying

See

SectionIV.2

See


By date of

award.


SeeSectionIV.2


By date of award.

Additional Forms



What toSubmit


When toSubmit







42
















The official list of the jurisdictions that have elected to participate in

Exec. Order 12372, including addresses and contact persons, may befound on the following URL:http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html.



Comments submitted directly to ACF should be addressed to the U.S.Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Childrenand Families, Office of Grants Management, Division of DiscretionaryGrants, 370 L'Enfant Promenade SW., 6th Floor, Washington, DC

20447.Although some jurisdictions have chosen not to participate in thisprocess, entities that meet the eligibility requirements of the ProgramAnnouncement are still eligible to apply for a grant even if a State,Territory, or Commonwealth, etc., does not have a SPOC. Therefore,applicants from these jurisdictions, or for projects administered byFederally-recognized Indian Tribes, need take no action in regard toExec. Order 12372.


Costs of organized fund raising, including financial campaigns,endowment drives, solicitation of gifts and bequests, and similarexpenses incurred solely to raise capital or obtain contributions, areunallowable.


43





Please see Sections IV.2 and IV.3 for deadline information and otherapplication requirements.


Submission by Mail

Ben L. SharpAdministration for Children and FamiliesOffice of Grants Management/Division of Discretionary GrantsSIP Grants370 L'Enfant Promenade, S.W., 6th Floor-EastWashington , DC 20447

Hand Delivery

Ben L. Sharp

Administration for Children and FamiliesACF MailroomAerospace Building, 2nd Floor (near loading dock)901 D Street, S.W.,Washington , DC 20447


Please see Section IV.2 for guidelines and requirements whensubmitting applications electronically via http://www.Grants.gov.





An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not requiredto respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a currentlyvalid OMB control number.

1. Criteria:

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PURPOSE

The project description provides the majority of information by whichan application is evaluated and ranked in competition with other

applications for available assistance. The project description should beconcise and complete. It should address the activity for which Federalfunds are being requested. Supporting documents should be includedwhere they can present information clearly and succinctly. Inpreparing the project description, information that is responsive toeach of the requested evaluation criteria must be provided. Awardingoffices use this and other information in making their fundingrecommendations. It is important, therefore, that this information beincluded in the application in a manner that is clear and complete.


ACF is particularly interested in specific project descriptions that focuson outcomes and convey strategies for achieving intendedperformance. Project descriptions are evaluated on the basis of substance and measurable outcomes, not length. Extensive exhibitsare not required. Cross-referencing should be used rather thanrepetition. Supporting information concerning activities that will not bedirectly funded by the grant or information that does not directlypertain to an integral part of the grant-funded activity should beplaced in an appendix.


INTRODUCTION

Applicants that are required to submit a full project description shallprepare the project description statement in accordance with thefollowing instructions while being aware of the specified evaluationcriteria. The text options give a broad overview of what the projectdescription should include while the evaluation criteria identify themeasures that will be used to evaluate applications.

LETTER OF INTENT

Applicants are strongly encouraged to notify ACF of their intention tosubmit an application under this announcement. Please submit theletter of intent by the deadline date listed in Section IV.3 SubmissionDates and Times.

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The letter of intent should include the following information: numberand title of this announcement; the name and address of the applicantorganization; and/or Fiscal Agent (if known); and the name, phonenumber, fax number and email address of a contact person.

Letter of intent information will be used to determine the number of expert reviewers needed to evaluate applications. The letter of intentis optional. Failure to submit a letter of intent will not impacteligibility to submit an application and will not disqualify an applicationfrom competitive review.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

List the contents of the application including corresponding pagenumbers.




Clearly identify the physical, economic, social, financial, institutional,and/or other problem(s) requiring a solution. The need for assistancemust be demonstrated and the principal and subordinate objectives of the project must be clearly stated; supporting documentation, such asletters of support and testimonials from concerned interests other than

the applicant, may be included. Any relevant data based on planningstudies 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 mayvolunteer 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 programannouncement.



For example, increased use of an interstate CSE remedy (e.g., incomewithholding, tax refund offset) is projected to have quarterly results of a five percent increase in income withholding collections and a fivepercent increase in automated enforcement collections. Whenaccomplishments cannot be quantified by activity or function, list themin chronological order to show the schedule of accomplishments and

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their target dates. If any data are to be collected, maintained, and/ordisseminated, clearance may be required from OMB. This clearancepertains to any "collection of information that is conducted orsponsored 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 orcontribution.

APPROACH

Outline a plan of action that describes the scope and detail of how theproposed work will be accomplished. Account for all functions oractivities identified in the application. Cite factors that might accelerateor decelerate the work and state your reason for taking the proposedapproach rather than others. Describe any unusual features of theproject such as design or technological innovations, reductions in cost

or time, or extraordinary social and community involvement.





EVALUATION

Provide a narrative addressing how the conduct of the project and theresults of the project will be evaluated. In addressing the evaluation

of results, state how you will determine the extent to which the projecthas achieved its stated objectives and the extent to which theaccomplishment of objectives can be attributed to the project. Discussthe criteria to be used to evaluate results, and explain themethodology that will be used to determine if the needs identified anddiscussed are being met and if the project results and benefits arebeing achieved. With respect to the conduct of the project, define theprocedures to be employed to determine whether the project is being

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conducted in a manner consistent with the work plan presented anddiscuss the impact of the project's various activities that address theproject's effectiveness.

GEOGRAPHIC LOCATION



The following are requests for additional information that must beincluded in the application:

ELIGIBILITY CERTIFICATIONApplicants must provide the following as certification of their

eligibility under this program announcement. Please provide:





• A statement from a State taxing body, State attorneygeneral, or other appropriate State official certifying thatthe applicant organization has non-profit status and thatnone of the net earnings accrue to any privateshareholders or individuals.

• A certified copy of the organization's certificate of incorporation or similar document that clearly establishes

non-profit status.

• Any of the items in the subparagraphs immediately abovefor a State or national parent organization and a statementsigned by the parent organization that the applicantorganization is a local non-profit affiliate.

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When applying electronically, we strongly suggest that youattach your proof of non-profit status with your electronicapplication.

STAFF AND POSITION DATA

Provide a biographical sketch and job description for each keyperson appointed. Job descriptions for each vacant key positionshould be included as well. As new key staff is appointed,biographical sketches will also be required.

PLAN FOR PROJECT CONTINUANCE BEYOND GRANT SUPPORTProvide a plan for securing resources and continuing projectactivities after Federal assistance has ended.

LETTERS OF SUPPORTProvide statements from community, public, and commercialleaders that support the project proposed for funding. Allsubmissions should be included in the application package or bythe application deadline.


Provide a budget with line-item detail and detailed calculations foreach budget object class identified on the Budget Information Form(SF-424A or SF-424C). Detailed calculations must include estimationmethods, quantities, unit costs, and other similar quantitative detailsufficient for the calculation to be duplicated. If matching is arequirement, include a breakout by the funding sources identified in

Block 15 of the SF-424.


GENERALUse the following guidelines for preparing the budget and budget justification. Both Federal and non-Federal resources (whenrequired) shall be detailed and justified in the budget and budgetnarrative justification. "Federal resources" refers only to the

ACF grant funds for which you are applying. "Non-Federalresources" are all other non-ACF Federal and non-Federalresources. It is suggested that budget amounts andcomputations be presented in a columnar format: first column,object class categories; second column, Federal budget; nextcolumn(s), non-Federal budget(s); and last column, totalbudget. The budget justification should be in a narrative form.

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Justification: For each type of equipment requested provide: adescription of the equipment; the cost per unit; the number of units; the total cost; and a plan for use on the project; as well asuse and/or disposal of the equipment after the project ends. Anapplicant organization that uses its own definition for equipment

should provide a copy of its policy, or section of its policy, thatincludes the equipment definition.



CONTRACTUALDescription: Costs of all contracts for services and goods exceptfor those that belong under other categories such as equipment,supplies, construction, etc. Include third-party evaluationcontracts, if applicable, and contracts with secondary recipientorganizations, including delegate agencies and specific project(s)and/or businesses to be financed by the applicant.

Justification: Demonstrate that all procurement transactions willbe conducted in a manner to provide, to the maximum extentpractical, open and free competition. Recipients and

subrecipients, other than States that are required to use 45 CFRPart 92 procedures, must justify any anticipated procurementaction that is expected to be awarded without competition andexceeds the simplified acquisition threshold fixed at 41 USC403(11), currently set at $100,000.

Recipients might be required to make available to ACF pre-awardreview and procurement documents, such as requests forproposals or invitations for bids, independent cost estimates,etc.


OTHER

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Enter the total of all other costs. Such costs, where applicableand appropriate, may include but are not limited to: insurance;food; medical and dental costs (noncontractual); professionalservices costs; space and equipment rentals; printing andpublication; computer use; training costs, such as tuition and

stipends; staff development costs; and administrative costs.

Justification: Provide computations, a narrative description anda justification for each cost under this category.

INDIRECT CHARGESDescription: Total amount of indirect costs. This categoryshould be used only when the applicant currently has an indirectcost rate approved by the Department of Health and HumanServices (HHS) or another cognizant Federal agency.

Justification: An applicant that will charge indirect costs to thegrant must enclose a copy of the current rate agreement. If theapplicant organization is in the process of initially developing orrenegotiating a rate, upon notification that an award will bemade, it should immediately develop a tentative indirect costrate proposal based on its most recently completed fiscal year, inaccordance with the cognizant agency's guidelines forestablishing indirect cost rates, and submit it to the cognizantagency. Applicants awaiting approval of their indirect costproposals may also request indirect costs. When an indirect costrate is requested, those costs included in the indirect cost pool

should not be charged as direct costs to the grant. Also, if theapplicant is requesting a rate that is less than what is allowedunder the program, the authorized representative of theapplicant organization must submit a signed acknowledgementthat the applicant is accepting a lower rate than allowed.


Justification: Describe the nature, source and anticipated use of

program income in the budget or refer to the pages in theapplication that contain this information.

NON-FEDERAL RESOURCESDescription: Amounts of non-Federal resources that will be usedto support the project as identified in Block 15 of the SF-424.

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The corresponding score values indicate the relative importance thatACF places on each evaluation criterion; however, applicants need notdevelop their applications precisely according to the order presented.Application components may be organized such that a reviewer will beable to follow a seamless and logical flow of information (i.e., from abroad overview of the project to more detailed information about howit will be conducted).

In considering how applicants will carry out the responsibilitiesaddressed under this announcement, competing applications forfinancial assistance will be reviewed and evaluated against thefollowing criteria:


The application should demonstrate a thorough understanding andanalysis of the problem(s) being addressed in the project, the need forassistance and the importance of addressing these problems in

improving the effectiveness of the child support program. Theapplicant should describe how the project will address this problem(s)through implementation of changes, enhancements and innovativeefforts and specifically, how this project will improve program results.The applicant should address one or more of the strategies orapproaches described under the specific priority area for which theyare applying (refer to Section I).

The applicant should identify the key goals and objectives of theproject; describe the conceptual framework of its approach to resolvethe identified problem(s), and provide a rationale for taking this

approach as opposed to others.

APPROACH - 30 points

A well thought-out and practical management and staffing plan ismandatory. The applicant should include a detailed management planthat includes timelines and discussion of major task activities. Themain concern in this criterion is that the applicant should demonstrate

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a clear idea of the project's goals, objectives and tasks to beaccomplished. The plan to accomplish the goals and tasks should beset forth in a logical framework. The plan should identify what tasksare required of any contractors and specify their relevant qualificationsto 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.



The applicant should describe how the success of this project can bemeasured and how the success of this project has broader applicationin contributing to CSE policies, practices and/or providing solutionsthat could be adapted by other States/jurisdictions. The applicantshould include an outcome evaluation and a process evaluation plan.

The outcome evaluation should describe the specific results/productsthat will be achieved; as appropriate, identify the kinds of data to be

collected and maintained to track outcomes; describe procedures forinformed consent of participants, where applicable, and discuss thecriteria to be used to evaluate the results of the project. The outcomeevaluation should include a comparison of before/and after theproject's experience, as appropriate, to demonstrate the resultsachieved.

The applicant should also include a process evaluation plan describingthe evaluation methodology to be used to determine how the projectwill be implemented as proposed to accomplish the projectgoals/objectives. The process evaluation should assess how well the

implementation design worked and describe areas such as theselection of participants, the referral process, the coordination of partnership services, the implementation of new/revised processes,etc.

BUDGET AND BUDGET JUSTIFICATION - 10 points

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The project costs need to be reasonable in relation to the identifiedtasks, including the evaluation component and reasonably cost-effective in relation to the size of the caseload served and the projectimpacts/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) thatwill be committed to the project. Consultant or contractor personnelcosts should also be delineated.

In accordance with the general rule stated above under the headingTRAVEL, applicants should include funds in their budget for one trip toan OCSE conference or training session in Washington, D.C.,budgeting for two and a half days for up to two people. If OCSErequests 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.

LETTERS OF SUPPORT - 5 points

Preference will be given to those grant applicants representing IV-Dagencies or applicant organizations who have documented State, localor Tribal IV-D agency commitment to the project, either through acooperative agreement or letter of commitment, which needs to besigned by the agency head and attached to the application.

Bonus Points - 5 points

OCSE will award 5 bonus points to projects that include partnershipswith the IV-A agency, the workforce investment agency, or local faith-based or community organizations to provide employment services fornoncustodial parents. Employment services should be funded by theseagencies/organizations' sources (not by IV-D funds). To receive bonuspoints, proposals must include signed letters from theseagencies/organizations of intent to partner with child support in thisendeavor.



Initial ACF Screening: Each application will be screened to determinewhether it was received by the closing date and time and whether therequested amount exceeds the stated ceiling. Late applications orthose exceeding the funding limit will be returned to the applicantswith a notation that they were unacceptable and will not be reviewed.

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Each application submitted under this program announcement willundergo a pre-review to determine that: (1) the application wasreceived by the closing date and submitted in accordance with theinstructions in this announcement and (2) the applicant is eligible forfunding. Applicants need to state specifically for which priority area

they are applying in the project abstract. Applications will be screenedfor priority area appropriateness. If applications are found to beinappropriate for the priority area in which they are submitted,applicants will be contacted to provide a written request to redirect theapplication to a more appropriate priority area.

Applications that pass the initial ACF screening will be evaluated andrated by an independent review panel on the basis of specificevaluation criteria. The results of these reviews will assist the OCSECommissioner and program staff in considering competingapplications. Reviewers' scores will weigh heavily in funding decisions

but will not be the only factors considered. Applications generally willbe considered in order of the average scores assigned by reviewers.However, highly ranked applications are not guaranteed fundingbecause other factors are taken into consideration. These include, butare not limited to, the number of similar types of existing grants orprojects funded with OCSE funds in the last five years; comments of reviewers and government officials; staff evaluation andinput; previous program performance of applicants; compliance withgrant terms under previous HHS grants; audit reports; investigativereports; an applicant's progress in resolving any final audit

disallowance on previous OCSE or other Federal agency grants. OCSEwill consider the geographic distribution of funds among States andthe relative proportion of funding among rural and urban areas. Theevaluation criteria were designed to assess the quality of a proposedproject, and to determine the likelihood of its success. The evaluationcriteria are closely related and are considered as a whole in judgingthe overall quality of an application. Points are awarded only toapplications that are responsive to the evaluation criteria within thecontext of this program announcement.


Applications that are approved but unfunded may be held over forfunding in the next funding cycle, pending the availability of funds, fora period not to exceed one year.

3. Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates:

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Not Applicable


1. Award Notices:

The successful applicants will be notified through the issuance of aNotice of Award (NoA) document that sets forth the amount of fundsgranted, the terms and conditions of the grant, the effective date of the grant, the budget period for which initial support will be given, thenon-Federal share to be provided (if applicable), and the total projectperiod for which support is contemplated. The NoA will be signed bythe Grants Officer and transmitted via postal mail.

Following the finalization of funding decisions, organizations whoseapplications will not be funded will be notified by letter, signed by theProgram Office head.

2. Admin istrative and National Policy Requirements:

Grantees are subject to the requirements in 45 CFR Part 74 (non-governmental) or 45 CFR Part 92 (governmental).

Direct Federal grants, sub-award funds, or contracts under this ACFprogram shall not be used to support inherently religious activities

such as religious instruction, worship, or proselytization. Therefore,organizations must take steps to separate, in time or location, theirinherently religious activities from the services funded under thisprogram. Regulations pertaining to the Equal Treatment for Faith-Based Organizations, which includes the prohibition against Federalfunding of inherently religious activities, can be found at the HHS website at: http://www.hhs.gov/fbci/waisgate21.pdf .

A faith-based organization receiving HHS funds retains itsindependence from Federal, State, and local governments, and maycontinue to carry out its mission, including the definition, practice, and

expression of its religious beliefs. For example, a faith-basedorganization may use space in its facilities to provide secular programsor services funded with Federal funds without removing religious art,icons, scriptures, or other religious symbols. In addition, a faith-basedorganization that receives Federal funds retains its authority over itsinternal governance, and it may retain religious terms in itsorganization's name, select its board members on a religious basis,and include religious references in its organization's mission

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http://www.hhs.gov/fbci/waisgate21.pdf




statements and other governing documents in accordance with allprogram requirements, statutes, and other applicable requirementsgoverning the conduct of HHS funded activities.

Faith-based and community organizations may reference the

"Guidance to Faith-Based and Community Organizations on Partneringwith the Federal Government" at:http://www.whitehouse.gov/government/fbci/guidance/index.html.


The HHS Grants Policy Statement (GPS) is the Department of Healthand Human Services new single policy guide for discretionary grantsand cooperative agreements. Unlike previous HHS policy documents,the GPS is intended to be shared with and used by grantees. Itbecame effective October 1, 2006 and is applicable to all OperatingDivisions (OPDIVS), such as the Administration for Children andFamilies (ACF), except the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The GPScovers basic grants processes, standard terms and conditions andpoints of contact as well as important OPDIV-specific requirements.Appendices include a glossary of terms and a list of standardabbreviations for ease of reference. The GPS may be accessed athttp://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html.


Grantees will be required to submit program progress and financialreports (SF-269 found at:

http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html) throughout theproject period. Program progress and financial reports are due 30 daysafter the reporting period. Final programmatic and financial reports aredue 90 days after the close of the project period.

Final reports may be submitted in hard copy to the GrantsManagement Office Contact listed in Section VII of this announcement.




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Jean RobinsonAdministration for Children and FamiliesOffice of Child Support EnforcementDivision of State, Tribal and Local Assistance370 L'Enfant, Promenade, S.W., 4th Floor-West

Washington , DC 20447Phone: 202-401-5330Email: [email protected]


Ben L. SharpAdministration for Children and FamiliesOffice of Grants Management, Division of Discretionary GrantsSIP Grants370 L'Enfant Promenade, S.W., 6th Floor-East



Priority Area 3:

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

Description

On February 27, 2007, OCSE issued a Dear Colleague Letter (DCL-07-06) announcing a national initiative called PAID (Project to AvoidIncreasing Delinquencies). This initiative focuses on goal number four

of the National Child Support Enforcement Strategic Plan: "All childrenin IV-D cases receive financial support from parents as ordered."Under this national initiative, OCSE is placing special emphasis onactivities that result in increasing collections of current support andreducing arrears. Examples of these activities include efforts that:

Address administrative and root causes of nonpayment of support(e.g., establishing appropriate orders, early intervention upon

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nonpayment, under/unemployment of obligors, or incarceration andreentry issues)

Increase use of data findings to formulate program and policydecisions (e.g., designing and incorporating case stratification

strategies, implementing new case management techniques oradopting arrears compromise policies).

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




Funding:

$300,000


Ceiling on Amount of I ndividual

Awards:


Floor on Amount of IndividualAwards:

None



OCSE is providing $100,000 for the first 12-month budget period,$50,000 for the second 12-month budget period and $50,000 for thethird 12-month budget period to provide sufficient time for theseprojects to finalize activities and evaluation reports. Anticipatedfunding for the 36-month project period is a maximum of $200,000,based on the availability of Federal funds and successful granteeperformance. An application that exceeds the upper value of the dollarrange specified will be considered non-responsive.

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http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cse/pol/2007-dcl.html

http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cse/pol/2007-dcl.html



Aw ards under this announcement are subject to the availabilityof funds.

II I. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

1. Eligible Applicants:

• Unrestricted (i.e., open to any type of entity subject toexceptions specified below.)

Eligibility is open to all types of domestic applicants other thanindividuals.

Faith-based and community organizations are eligible to apply under

this announcement.

Foreign entities are not eligible under this announcement.

2. Cost Sharing or Matching: None

3. Other:

Disqualification Factors

Applications with requests that exceed the ceiling on the amount of individual awards referenced in Section II. Award Information will be

deemed non-responsive and will not be considered for funding underthis announcement.

Any application that fails to satisfy the deadline requirementsreferenced in Section IV.3., Submission Dates and Times, will bedeemed non-responsive and will not be considered for funding underthis announcement.

IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION 1. Address to Request Application Package:

Jean RobinsonAdministration for Children and FamiliesOffice of Child Support EnforcementDivision of State, Tribal and Local Assistance370 L'Enfant Promenade, S.W., 4th Floor-West

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The applicant should clearly indicate in the project abstract of theapplication the specific priority area for which it is applying. Applicantsmay submit different applications covering different priority areas orthey may submit different applications for different projects under onepriority area; how ever, they may not submit one application forthe same project covering multiple priority areas. The length of the application, excluding the required application forms, certifications,and resumes, should be about 20 pages, double-spaced formatpreferred. A page is a single-side of an 8 1/2" x 11" sheet of plainwhite paper. (Applicants are requested not to send pamphlets, maps,

brochures or other printed material along with their application asthese are difficult to photocopy. These materials, if submitted, will notbe included in the review process.) The project description shouldinclude all the information requirements described in thespecific evaluation criteria outlined in this program

announcement under Sect ion V.

D-U-N-S Requirement

All applicants must have a D&B Data Universal Numbering System (D-U-N-S) number. On June 27, 2003, the Office of Management and

Budget (OMB) published in the Federal Register a new Federal policyapplicable to all Federal grant applicants. The policy requires Federalgrant applicants to provide a D-U-N-S number when applying forFederal grants or cooperative agreements on or after October 1,2003. The D-U-N-S number will be required whether an applicant issubmitting a paper application or using the government-wideelectronic portal, Grants.gov. A D-U-N-S number will be required forevery application for a new award or renewal/continuation of anaward, including applications or plans under formula, entitlement, andblock grant programs, submitted on or after October 1, 2003.


Proof of Non-Profit Status

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Non-profit organizations applying for funding are required to submitproof of their non-profit status.






• Any of the items in the subparagraphs immediately above for aState or national parent organization and a statement signed bythe parent organization that the applicant organization is a localnon-profit affiliate.






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Assurances. For construction programs, applicants must also submitSF-424C, Budget Information and SF-424D, Assurances. Whenrequired for programs that involve human subjects, the Protection of Human Subjects Assurance Identification/IRB Certification/Declarationof Exemption form must be submitted. All forms may be reproduced

for use in submitting applications. Applicants must sign and return theappropriate standard forms with their application. The Protection of Human Subjects Assurance Identification/IRB Certification/Declarationof Exemption (Common Rule) form may be found at:http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html.

Applicants must furnish, prior to award, an executed copy of theCertification Regarding Lobbying. Applicants must sign and return thecertification with their application. The Certification RegardingLobbying may be found at:http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html. (If any funds

have been paid or will be paid to any person for influencing orattempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, aMember of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or anemployee of a Member of Congress in connection with thiscommitment providing for the United States to insure or guarantee aloan, the applicant shall complete and submit Standard Form (SF)-LLL,"Disclosure Form to Report Lobbying," in accordance with itsinstructions.)

The Pro-Children Act of 1994, 20 U.S.C. 7183, imposes restrictions onsmoking in facilities where federally funded children's services areprovided. HHS grants are subject to these requirements only if theymeet the Act's specified coverage. The Act specifies that smoking isprohibited in any indoor facility (owned, leased, or contracted for)used for the routine or regular provision of kindergarten, elementary,or secondary education or library services to children under the age of 18. In addition, smoking is prohibited in any indoor facility or portionof a facility (owned, leased, or contracted for) used for the routine orregular provision of federally funded health care, day care, or earlychildhood development, including Head Start services to children underthe age of 18. The statutory prohibition also applies if such facilities

are constructed, operated, or maintained with Federal funds. Thestatute does not apply to children's services provided in privateresidences, facilities funded solely by Medicare or Medicaid funds,portions of facilities used for inpatient drug or alcohol treatment, orfacilities where WIC coupons are redeemed. Failure to comply with theprovisions of the law may result in the imposition of a civil monetarypenalty of up to $1,000 per violation and/or the imposition of anadministrative compliance order on the responsible entity. Additional

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Information on the Certification Regarding Program Fraud CivilRemedies Act (PFCRA) may be found in the HHS Grants Policy

Statement at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html.Applicants must make the appropriate certification of their compliancewith all Federal statutes relating to nondiscrimination. By signing andsubmitting the application, applicants are providing the necessarycertification. Where return of a form is required, complete thestandard forms and the associated certifications and assurances basedon the instructions found on the forms. The forms and certificationsmay be found at:http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html.








When using www.Grants.gov, applicants will be able to download a

copy of the application package, complete it off-line, and then uploadand submit the application via the www.Grants.gov site. ACF will notaccept grant applications via facsimile or email.


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IMPORTANT NOTE: Before submitting an electronic application,applicants must complete the organization registration process as wellas obtain and register "electronic signature credentials" for theAuthorized Organization Representative (AOR). Since this process maytake more than five business days, it is important to start this process

early, well in advance of the application deadline. Be sure tocomplete all ww w.Grants.gov registration processes listed on


Please note the following if planning to submit an applicationelectronically via www.Grants.gov:


• Applicants may access the electronic application for this program

at http://www.Grants.gov. There applicants can search for thedownloadable application package by utilizing thewww.Grants.gov FIND function.


process through w ww.Grants.gov. Applicants areencouraged to submit their applications well before the closingdate and time so that if difficulties are encountered there will stillbe sufficient time to submit a hard copy via express mail. It isto an applicant's advantage to submit 24 hours ahead of

the closing date and time in order to address anydifficulties that may be encountered.

• To use www.Grants.gov, you, the applicant must have a D-U-N-S number and register in the Central Contractor Registry(CCR). Applicants should allow a minimum of five days tocomplete the CCR registration. REMINDER: CCR registration

expires each year and thus must be updated annually.Applicants cannot upload an application towww.Grants.gov w ithout having a current CCR



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• Though applying electronically, the application must still comply

with any page limitation requirements described in this programannouncement.

• After the application is submitted electronically, the applicant willreceive an automatic acknowledgement from www.Grants.govthat contains a www.Grants.gov tracking number. ACF willretrieve the electronically submitted application fromwww.Grants.gov.




• Checklists and registration brochures are maintained to assist

applicants in the registration process and may be found at:http://www.grants.gov/applicants/get_registered.jsp.



• For applicants that must demonstrate proof of non-profit statusbefore the award date, ACF strongly suggests that proof of non-profit status be attached to the electronic application. Proof of non-profit status and any other required documentation may be

scanned and attached as an "Other Attachment." Acceptabletypes of proof of non-profit status are stated earlier in thissection.

• The Grants.gov website complies with Section 508 of theRehabilitation Act of 1973. Grants.gov webpages are designed towork with assistive technologies such as screen readers. If anapplicant uses assistive technology and is unable to access any

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material on the site, email the www.Grants.gov contact center [email protected] for assistance.


Applicants that are submitting their application in paper format shouldsubmit one original and two copies of the complete application. Theoriginal and each of the two copies must include all required forms,certifications, assurances, and appendices, be signed by an authorizedrepresentative, and be unbound. The original copy of the applicationmust have original signature(s).




The due date for receipt of applications is referencedabove. Applications received after 4:30 p.m., eastern time, on thedue date will be classified as late and will not be considered in thecurrent competition.


Mail


Hand Delivery

Applications hand carried by applicants, applicant couriers, otherrepresentatives of the applicant, or by overnight/express mail couriersmust be received on or before the due date referenced above, betweenthe hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., eastern time, at the addressreferenced in Section IV.6., between Monday and Friday (excluding

Federal holidays).


Applications submitted electronically via Grants.gov must be submittedno later than 4:30 p.m., eastern time, on the due date referencedabove.

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Late Applications

Applications that do not meet the requirements above are considered

late applications. ACF shall notify each late applicant that itsapplication will not be considered in the current competition.


COMPETITION.


ACF may extend application deadlines when circumstances such asacts of God (floods, hurricanes, etc.) occur; when there are

widespread disruptions of mail service; or in other rare cases. Adetermination to extend or waive deadline requirements rests with theChief Grants Management Officer.


Checklist

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

application package.

What to SubmitRequiredContent Required Form or Format

When toSubmit

SF-424 SeeSectionIV.2



SF-424A SeeSectionIV.2



Table of Contents SeeSection V



SeeSectionsIV.2 and


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V

Project Description SeeSectionsIV.2 andV


Budget and BudgetJustification






Certification

Regarding Lobbying

See

SectionIV.2

See


By date of

award.


SeeSectionIV.2


By date of award.

Additional Forms



What toSubmit


When toSubmit







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The official list of the jurisdictions that have elected to participate in

Exec. Order 12372, including addresses and contact persons, may befound on the following URL:http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html.



Comments submitted directly to ACF should be addressed to the U.S.Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Childrenand Families, Office of Grants Management, Division of DiscretionaryGrants, 370 L'Enfant Promenade SW., 6th Floor, Washington, DC

20447.Although some jurisdictions have chosen not to participate in thisprocess, entities that meet the eligibility requirements of the ProgramAnnouncement are still eligible to apply for a grant even if a State,Territory, or Commonwealth, etc., does not have a SPOC. Therefore,applicants from these jurisdictions, or for projects administered byFederally-recognized Indian Tribes, need take no action in regard toExec. Order 12372.


Costs of organized fund raising, including financial campaigns,endowment drives, solicitation of gifts and bequests, and similarexpenses incurred solely to raise capital or obtain contributions, areunallowable.

Grant awards will not allow reimbursement of pre-award costs.

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Construction and purchase of real property are not allowable activitiesor expenditures under this grant award.


Please see Sections IV.2 and IV.3 for deadline information and other

application requirements.


Submission by Mail

Ben L. SharpAdministration for Children and FamiliesOffice of Grants Managemen/Division of Discretionary GrantsSIP Grants370 L'Enfant Promenade, S.W., 6th Floor-East

Washington, DC 20447

Hand Delivery

Ben L. SharpAdministration for Children and FamiliesACF MailroomAerospace Building 2nd Floor (near loading dock)901 D Street, S.W.Washington , DC 20447

Electronic Submission Please see Section IV.2 for guidelines and requirements whensubmitting applications electronically via http://www.Grants.gov.





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An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not requiredto respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a currentlyvalid OMB control number.

1. Criteria:


PURPOSE

The project description provides the majority of information by whichan application is evaluated and ranked in competition with otherapplications for available assistance. The project description should beconcise and complete. It should address the activity for which Federalfunds are being requested. Supporting documents should be includedwhere they can present information clearly and succinctly. Inpreparing the project description, information that is responsive to

each of the requested evaluation criteria must be provided. Awardingoffices use this and other information in making their fundingrecommendations. It is important, therefore, that this information beincluded in the application in a manner that is clear and complete.


ACF is particularly interested in specific project descriptions that focuson outcomes and convey strategies for achieving intendedperformance. Project descriptions are evaluated on the basis of substance and measurable outcomes, not length. Extensive exhibits

are not required. Cross-referencing should be used rather thanrepetition. Supporting information concerning activities that will not bedirectly funded by the grant or information that does not directlypertain to an integral part of the grant-funded activity should beplaced in an appendix.


INTRODUCTION

Applicants that are required to submit a full project description shallprepare the project description statement in accordance with thefollowing instructions while being aware of the specified evaluationcriteria. The text options give a broad overview of what the projectdescription should include while the evaluation criteria identify themeasures that will be used to evaluate applications.

LETTER OF INTENT

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Applicants are strongly encouraged to notify ACF of their intention tosubmit an application under this announcement. Please submit theletter of intent by the deadline date listed in Section IV.3 SubmissionDates and Times.

The letter of intent should include the following information: numberand title of this announcement; the name and address of the applicantorganization; and/or Fiscal Agent (if known); and the name, phonenumber, fax number and email address of a contact person.

Letter of intent information will be used to determine the number of expert reviewers needed to evaluate applications. The letter of intentis optional. Failure to submit a letter of intent will not impacteligibility to submit an application and will not disqualify an applicationfrom competitive review.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

List the contents of the application including corresponding pagenumbers.




Clearly identify the physical, economic, social, financial, institutional,

and/or other problem(s) requiring a solution. The need for assistancemust be demonstrated and the principal and subordinate objectives of the project must be clearly stated; supporting documentation, such asletters of support and testimonials from concerned interests other thanthe applicant, may be included. Any relevant data based on planningstudies 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 mayvolunteer 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 programannouncement.



For example, increased use of an interstate CSE remedy (e.g., incomewithholding, tax refund offset) is projected to have quarterly results of

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a five percent increase in income withholding collections and a fivepercent increase in automated enforcement collections. Whenaccomplishments cannot be quantified by activity or function, list themin chronological order to show the schedule of accomplishments andtheir target dates. If any data are to be collected, maintained, and/or

disseminated, clearance may be required from OMB. This clearancepertains to any "collection of information that is conducted orsponsored 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 orcontribution.

APPROACH

Outline a plan of action that describes the scope and detail of how theproposed work will be accomplished. Account for all functions or

activities identified in the application. Cite factors that might accelerateor decelerate the work and state your reason for taking the proposedapproach rather than others. Describe any unusual features of theproject such as design or technological innovations, reductions in costor time, or extraordinary social and community involvement.





EVALUATION

Provide a narrative addressing how the conduct of the project and theresults of the project will be evaluated. In addressing the evaluationof results, state how you will determine the extent to which the projecthas achieved its stated objectives and the extent to which theaccomplishment of objectives can be attributed to the project. Discussthe criteria to be used to evaluate results, and explain the

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methodology that will be used to determine if the needs identified anddiscussed are being met and if the project results and benefits arebeing achieved. With respect to the conduct of the project, define theprocedures to be employed to determine whether the project is beingconducted in a manner consistent with the work plan presented and

discuss the impact of the project's various activities that address theproject's effectiveness.

GEOGRAPHIC LOCATION



The following are requests for additional information that must be

included in the application:

ELIGIBILITY CERTIFICATIONApplicants must provide the following as certification of theireligibility under this program announcement. Please provide:





• A statement from a State taxing body, State attorneygeneral, or other appropriate State official certifying thatthe applicant organization has non-profit status and thatnone of the net earnings accrue to any private

shareholders or individuals.

• A certified copy of the organization's certificate of incorporation or similar document that clearly establishesnon-profit status.

• Any of the items in the subparagraphs immediately abovefor a State or national parent organization and a statement

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signed by the parent organization that the applicantorganization is a local non-profit affiliate.

When applying electronically, we strongly suggest that youattach your proof of non-profit status with your electronic

application.

STAFF AND POSITION DATAProvide a biographical sketch and job description for each keyperson appointed. Job descriptions for each vacant key positionshould be included as well. As new key staff is appointed,biographical sketches will also be required.

THIRD-PARTY AGREEMENTSProvide written and signed agreements between grantees andsubgrantees, or subcontractors, or other cooperating entities.

These agreements must detail the scope of work to beperformed, work schedules, remuneration, and other terms andconditions that structure or define the relationship.

LETTERS OF SUPPORTProvide statements from community, public, and commercialleaders that support the project proposed for funding. Allsubmissions should be included in the application package or bythe application deadline.


Provide a budget with line-item detail and detailed calculations foreach budget object class identified on the Budget Information Form(SF-424A or SF-424C). Detailed calculations must include estimationmethods, quantities, unit costs, and other similar quantitative detailsufficient for the calculation to be duplicated. If matching is arequirement, include a breakout by the funding sources identified inBlock 15 of the SF-424.


GENERALUse the following guidelines for preparing the budget and budget justification. Both Federal and non-Federal resources (whenrequired) shall be detailed and justified in the budget and budgetnarrative justification. "Federal resources" refers only to theACF grant funds for which you are applying. "Non-Federal

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resources" are all other non-ACF Federal and non-Federalresources. It is suggested that budget amounts andcomputations be presented in a columnar format: first column,object class categories; second column, Federal budget; nextcolumn(s), non-Federal budget(s); and last column, total

budget. The budget justification should be in a narrative form.

PERSONNELDescription: Costs of employee salaries and wages.

Justification: Identify the project director or principalinvestigator, if known at the time of application. For each staff person, provide: the title; time commitment to the project inmonths; time commitment to the project as a percentage or full-time equivalent; annual salary; grant salary; wage rates;etc. Do not include the costs of consultants, personnel costs of

delegate agencies, or of specific project(s) and/or businesses tobe financed by the applicant.

FRINGE BENEFITSDescription: Costs of employee fringe benefits unless treated aspart of an approved indirect cost rate.

Justification: Provide a breakdown of the amounts andpercentages that comprise fringe benefit costs such as healthinsurance, FICA, retirement insurance, taxes, etc.

TRAVEL

Description: Costs of project-related travel by employees of theapplicant organization. (This item does not include costs of consultant travel).

Justification: For each trip show: the total number of traveler(s); travel destination; duration of trip; per diem;mileage allowances, if privately owned vehicles will be used; andother transportation costs and subsistence allowances. If appropriate for this project, travel costs for key staff to attendACF-sponsored workshops should be detailed in the budget.

EQUIPMENTDescription: "Equipment" means an article of nonexpendable,tangible personal property having a useful life of more than oneyear and an acquisition cost that equals or exceeds the lesserof: (a) the capitalization level established by the organizationfor the financial statement purposes, or (b) $5,000. (Note:Acquisition cost means the net invoice unit price of an item of

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equipment, including the cost of any modifications, attachments,accessories, or auxiliary apparatus necessary to make it usablefor the purpose for which it is acquired. Ancillary charges, suchas taxes, duty, protective in-transit insurance, freight, andinstallation, shall be included in or excluded from acquisition cost

in accordance with the organization's regular written accountingpractices.)

Justification: For each type of equipment requested provide: adescription of the equipment; the cost per unit; the number of units; the total cost; and a plan for use on the project; as well asuse and/or disposal of the equipment after the project ends. Anapplicant organization that uses its own definition for equipmentshould provide a copy of its policy, or section of its policy, thatincludes the equipment definition.



CONTRACTUALDescription: Costs of all contracts for services and goods exceptfor those that belong under other categories such as equipment,

supplies, construction, etc. Include third-party evaluationcontracts, if applicable, and contracts with secondary recipientorganizations, including delegate agencies and specific project(s)and/or businesses to be financed by the applicant.

Justification: Demonstrate that all procurement transactions willbe conducted in a manner to provide, to the maximum extentpractical, open and free competition. Recipients andsubrecipients, other than States that are required to use 45 CFRPart 92 procedures, must justify any anticipated procurementaction that is expected to be awarded without competition and

exceeds the simplified acquisition threshold fixed at 41 USC403(11), currently set at $100,000.

Recipients might be required to make available to ACF pre-awardreview and procurement documents, such as requests forproposals or invitations for bids, independent cost estimates,etc.

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OTHEREnter the total of all other costs. Such costs, where applicableand appropriate, may include but are not limited to: insurance;food; medical and dental costs (noncontractual); professionalservices costs; space and equipment rentals; printing andpublication; computer use; training costs, such as tuition andstipends; staff development costs; and administrative costs.

Justification: Provide computations, a narrative description anda justification for each cost under this category.

INDIRECT CHARGESDescription: Total amount of indirect costs. This categoryshould be used only when the applicant currently has an indirectcost rate approved by the Department of Health and HumanServices (HHS) or another cognizant Federal agency.

Justification: An applicant that will charge indirect costs to thegrant must enclose a copy of the current rate agreement. If theapplicant organization is in the process of initially developing orrenegotiating a rate, upon notification that an award will be

made, it should immediately develop a tentative indirect costrate proposal based on its most recently completed fiscal year, inaccordance with the cognizant agency's guidelines forestablishing indirect cost rates, and submit it to the cognizantagency. Applicants awaiting approval of their indirect costproposals may also request indirect costs. When an indirect costrate is requested, those costs included in the indirect cost poolshould not be charged as direct costs to the grant. Also, if theapplicant is requesting a rate that is less than what is allowedunder the program, the authorized representative of theapplicant organization must submit a signed acknowledgement

that the applicant is accepting a lower rate than allowed.


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Justification: Describe the nature, source and anticipated use of program income in the budget or refer to the pages in theapplication that contain this information.

NON-FEDERAL RESOURCES

Description: Amounts of non-Federal resources that will be usedto support the project as identified in Block 15 of the SF-424.




The corresponding score values indicate the relative importance thatACF places on each evaluation criterion; however, applicants need notdevelop their applications precisely according to the order presented.Application components may be organized such that a reviewer will beable to follow a seamless and logical flow of information (i.e., from abroad overview of the project to more detailed information about howit will be conducted).

In considering how applicants will carry out the responsibilitiesaddressed under this announcement, competing applications for

financial assistance will be reviewed and evaluated against thefollowing criteria:


The application should demonstrate a thorough understanding andanalysis of the problem(s) being addressed in the project, the need forassistance and the importance of addressing these problems inimproving the effectiveness of the child support program. Theapplicant 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 orapproaches described under the specific priority area for which theyare applying (refer to Section I).

The applicant should identify the key goals and objectives of theproject; describe the conceptual framework of its approach to resolve

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the identified problem(s), and provide a rationale for taking thisapproach as opposed to others.

APPROACH - 30 points

A well thought-out and practical management and staffing plan is

mandatory. The applicant should include a detailed management planthat includes timelines and discussion of major task activities. Themain concern in this criterion is that the applicant should demonstratea clear idea of the project's goals, objectives, and tasks to beaccomplished. The plan to accomplish the goals and tasks should beset forth in a logical framework. The plan should identify what tasksare required of any contractors and specify their relevant qualificationsto perform these tasks. The plan should also identify what tasks will beprovided by partner agencies/organizations and attach letters of commitment to the project from these entities.



The applicant should describe how the success of this project can bemeasured and how the success of this project has broader applicationin contributing to CSE policies, practices, and/or providing solutionsthat could be adapted by other States/jurisdictions. The applicantshould include an outcome evaluation and a process evaluation plan.

The outcome evaluation should describe the specific results/productsthat will be achieved; as appropriate, identify the kinds of data to becollected and maintained to track outcomes; describe procedures forinformed consent of participants, where applicable, and discuss thecriteria to be used to evaluate the results of the project. The outcomeevaluation should include a comparison of before/and after theproject's experience, as appropriate, to demonstrate the resultsachieved.

The applicant should also include a process evaluation plan describingthe evaluation methodology to be used to determine how the projectwill be implemented as proposed to accomplish the project

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goals/objectives. The process evaluation should assess how well theimplementation design worked and describe areas such as theselection of participants, the referral process, the coordination of partnership services, the implantation of new/revised processes, etc.

BUDGET AND BUDGET JUSTIFICATION - 10 pointsThe project costs need to be reasonable in relation to the identifiedtasks, including the evaluation component and reasonably cost-effective in relation to the size of the caseload served and the projectimpacts/results to 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) thatwill be committed to the project. Consultant or contractor personnelcosts should also be delineated.

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

LETTERS OF SUPPORT - 5 points

Preference will be given to those grant applicants representing IV-D

agencies or applicant organizations who have documented State, localor Tribal IV-D agency commitment to the project, either through acooperative agreement or letter of commitment, which needs to besigned by the agency head and attached to the application.



Initial ACF Screening: Each application will be screened to determine

whether it was received by the closing date and time and whether therequested amount exceeds the stated ceiling. Late applications orthose exceeding the funding limit will be returned to the applicantswith a notation that they were unacceptable and will not be reviewed.

Each application submitted under this program announcement willundergo a pre-review to determine that: (1) the application wasreceived by the closing date and submitted in accordance with the

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instructions in this announcement and (2) the applicant is eligible forfunding. Applicants need to state specifically for which priority areathey are applying in the project abstract. Applications will be screenedfor priority area appropriateness. If applications are found to beinappropriate for the priority area in which they are submitted,

applicants will be contacted to provide a written request to redirect theapplication to a more appropriate priority area.

Applications that pass the initial ACF screening will be evaluated andrated by an independent review panel on the basis of specificevaluation criteria. The results of these reviews will assist the OCSECommissioner and program staff in considering competingapplications. Reviewers' scores will weigh heavily in funding decisionsbut will not be the only factors considered. Applications generally willbe 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, butare not limited to, the number of similar types of existing grants orprojects funded with OCSE funds in the last five years; comments of reviewers and government officials; staff evaluation andinput; previous program performance of applicants; compliance withgrant terms under previous HHS grants; audit reports; investigativereports; an applicant's progress in resolving any final auditdisallowance on previous OCSE or other Federal agency grants. OCSEwill consider the geographic distribution of funds among States andthe relative proportion of funding among rural and urban areas. The

evaluation criteria were designed to assess the quality of a proposedproject, and to determine the likelihood of its success. The evaluationcriteria are closely related and are considered as a whole in judgingthe overall quality of an application. Points are awarded only toapplications that are responsive to the evaluation criteria within thecontext of this program announcement.


Applications that are approved but unfunded may be held over forfunding in the next funding cycle, pending the availability of funds, for

a period not to exceed one year.3. Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates:

Not Applicable


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1. Award Notices:

The successful applicants will be notified through the issuance of aNotice of Award (NoA) document that sets forth the amount of fundsgranted, the terms and conditions of the grant, the effective date of

the grant, the budget period for which initial support will be given, thenon-Federal share to be provided (if applicable), and the total projectperiod for which support is contemplated. The NoA will be signed bythe Grants Officer and transmitted via postal mail.

Following the finalization of funding decisions, organizations whoseapplications will not be funded will be notified by letter, signed by theProgram Office head.

2. Admin istrative and National Policy Requirements:

Grantees are subject to the requirements in 45 CFR Part 74 (non-

governmental) or 45 CFR Part 92 (governmental).

Direct Federal grants, sub-award funds, or contracts under this ACFprogram shall not be used to support inherently religious activitiessuch as religious instruction, worship, or proselytization. Therefore,organizations must take steps to separate, in time or location, theirinherently religious activities from the services funded under thisprogram. Regulations pertaining to the Equal Treatment for Faith-Based Organizations, which includes the prohibition against Federalfunding of inherently religious activities, can be found at the HHS website at: http://www.hhs.gov/fbci/waisgate21.pdf .

A faith-based organization receiving HHS funds retains itsindependence from Federal, State, and local governments, and maycontinue to carry out its mission, including the definition, practice, andexpression of its religious beliefs. For example, a faith-basedorganization may use space in its facilities to provide secular programsor services funded with Federal funds without removing religious art,icons, scriptures, or other religious symbols. In addition, a faith-basedorganization that receives Federal funds retains its authority over itsinternal governance, and it may retain religious terms in itsorganization's name, select its board members on a religious basis,and include religious references in its organization's missionstatements and other governing documents in accordance with allprogram requirements, statutes, and other applicable requirementsgoverning the conduct of HHS funded activities.

Faith-based and community organizations may reference the"Guidance to Faith-Based and Community Organizations on Partnering

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with the Federal Government" at:http://www.whitehouse.gov/government/fbci/guidance/index.html.


The HHS Grants Policy Statement (GPS) is the Department of Health

and Human Services new single policy guide for discretionary grantsand cooperative agreements. Unlike previous HHS policy documents,the GPS is intended to be shared with and used by grantees. Itbecame effective October 1, 2006 and is applicable to all OperatingDivisions (OPDIVS), such as the Administration for Children andFamilies (ACF), except the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The GPScovers basic grants processes, standard terms and conditions andpoints of contact as well as important OPDIV-specific requirements.Appendices include a glossary of terms and a list of standardabbreviations for ease of reference. The GPS may be accessed at

http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html.


Grantees will be required to submit program progress and financialreports (SF-269 found at:http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html) throughout theproject period. Program progress and financial reports are due 30 daysafter the reporting period. Final programmatic and financial reports aredue 90 days after the close of the project period.

Final reports may be submitted in hard copy to the Grants

Management Office Contact listed in Section VII of this announcement.




Jean RobinsonAdministration for Children and FamiliesOffice of Child Support EnforcementDivision of State, Tribal and Local Assistance370 L'Enfant Promenade, S.W., 4th Floor-WestWashington , DC 20447

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Phone: 202-401-5330Email: [email protected]


Ben L. Sharp

Administration for Children and FamiliesOffice of Grants Management/Division of Discretionary GrantsSIP Grants370 L'Enfant Promenade, S.W., 6th Floor-EastWashington, DC 20447Phone: 202-401-5513Email: [email protected]


Date: 12/12/2007 Margot Bean

Commissioner

Office of Child Support Enforcement





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