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Executive Summary: ORR plans to fund applications that provide or facilitate the provision of services that will result in refugee families earning income at a self-sufficiency level through farming and related businesses. Applications should include improving outreach and collaboration so that refugee farmers have greater access to community resources. These resources should assist refugee farmers and agricultural related entrepreneurs to overcome the challenges that limit them in being able to increase their levels of income and standards of living. In general, these community resources should fall under the areas of marketing, financing, land acquisition, and technical assistance and include activities such as improved market opportunities, business management skills, financing, ability to acquire land, growing practices and understanding various regulatory requirements and procedures. Applications should give consideration to language and cultural differences that impact on refugees' ability to understand and access appropriate services Also, as a component of outreach, proposed projects should help bridge the gap between refugees and mainstream agencies so that the latter have a better understanding of refugee attitudes and characteristics, including language limitations. Many refugees start their agriculture experience in this country by growing vegetables in urban gardens and may eventually sell enough produce to meet the USDA definition of a farmer (someone who earns the equivalent of at least $1,000 of annual gross income by selling agricultural products). The main focus of the RAPP is to support sustainable income earning activities in rural areas. However, besides projects to assist refugees already engaged in farming in rural areas, applicants may also propose projects to assist refugees wanting to start farming operations in these areas after having an urban garden and urban based projects that include urban gardens. I. FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION This program is authorized by section 412(c)(1)(A) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) (8 United States Code (U.S.C.) 1522(c)(1)(A), as amended, which authorizes the ORR Director "to make grants to, and enter into contracts with public or private nonprofit agencies for projects specifically designed--(i) to assist refugees in obtaining the skills which are necessary for economic self-sufficiency, including projects for job training, employment services, day care, professional refresher training and other recertification services; (ii) to provide training in English where necessary (regardless of whether the refugees are employed or receiving cash and other assistance); and (iii) to provide where specific needs have been shown and recognized by the Director, health (including mental health) services, social services, educational and other services." Background: Farming and rural entrepreneurship provide an opportunity for refugees living in, or adjacent to, rural areas to earn a sustainable income and obtain economic self-sufficiency. Refugees, however, may initially lack the necessary knowledge and resources to achieve sustainable income in agriculture. The Refugee Agricultural Partnership Program (RAPP) assists refugee families in earning a reasonable income through farming and related businesses by providing, or facilitating the provision of, appropriate services to refugees already engaged in agriculture and to newly arriving refugees who may wish to pursue agriculture as a livelihood. The program seeks to provide culturally and linguistically appropriate services to help refugees adjust to American agriculture and to link them to mainstream agriculture assistance agencies. Many refugees come from agrarian societies and have the skills and aptitudes for farming. Moreover, refugee family members are willing to work together in rural businesses. They share a willingness to do intensive hands-on labor and to work on small tracts of land. These smaller tracts are conducive to the growing of organic, specialty and niche crops. The demand for specialty vegetables is mainly attributable to the significant number of foreign born persons living in this country. Greater consumer and institutional interest in better nutrition and healthier foods drive the increased demand for organic and niche crops. The promotion and interest in buying fresh local products also creates a greater demand for these crops in some regions. Because of their skills and attitudes, in communities where there is substantial agricultural activity, refugee families can be a valuable resource for community revitalization. Evidence also suggests that by engaging in farming and growing their familiar foods for consumption or sale, refugees receive physical and mental well-being benefits, and therefore better integrate into this society. In Fiscal Year (FY) 2004 and FY 2005, under the Refugee Rural Initiative (RRI), the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) conducted demonstration projects to determine the issues and challenges for refugees in rural areas and the potential role of refugee serving agencies, particularly for the purpose of accessing and coordinating applicable resources. The results from these projects demonstrate that local organizations can play a coordinative role in identifying and solving challenges where the solution can lead to increased opportunities for refugee self-sufficiency through farming and rural entrepreneurship. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services ( HHS) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) have a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for promoting collaboration between ORR and various offices and programs within USDA. A purpose of the MOU is to increase cooperation among these organizations to improve the quality and access to services for refugees and other low-income farmers and rural entrepreneurs. Program Scope: It is expected that under this announcement applicants will demonstrate a broad understanding of these challenges, establish priorities and propose activities that will positively affect opportunities for refugee farmers in their community. In general, challenges fall into six elements: marketing, land acquisition, obtaining financing, technical assistance and training, lack of collaborative relationships, and language and culture.
Applicants may also identify other challenges in developing their applications. The ability to establish collaborative partnerships with other organizations is important for projects funded under this announcement. These organizations should have specific interests and responsibilities to identify and solve needs and challenges, plan and provide program services and resources, and cooperate in providing feedback and monitoring. Potential partners encompass community-based organizations, including ethnic ones; lending institutions; the university cooperative extension service; USDA offices; and various other groups, such as organic certification agencies, health departments, faith-based organizations, market associations and various local or regional groups that have an interest in sustainable agriculture. Partner agencies might offer or facilitate training or technical assistance in crop production, use of fertilizers and insecticides, acquiring land, marketing, business management, record keeping and accessing credit. Applicants may also focus on accessing resources that improve opportunities for adjustment to rural areas, such as rural housing. In collaboration with partner organizations, applicants should design projects to fit the needs of the community served. Thus, consideration should be given to local factors, such as refugee population numbers, access to population centers, market options, environmental considerations, cultural attitudes on the part of the mainstream and refugee populations, presence and effectiveness of resource agencies, and State and local regulatory and procedural incentives or disincentives. Applicants should design their projects to achieve long-term goals for refugees, such as increased income levels, a better understanding of American agriculture, and increased access to mainstream services and resources. Activities: In FY 2006, ORR built on the FY 2004 and FY 2005 experience by giving priority to the achievement of specific outcomes that lead to higher and measurable levels of farm and entrepreneurship income for refugees. Acknowledgement was also given to the positive effect farming can have on refugees' integration into their communities. It is expected applications under this announcement will further refine and expand these approaches and/or establish new goals and activities consistent with the opportunities and challenges in their particular communities. Allowable activities under this program might include the following:
5. Linkage of refugees to new program ideas and technologies that offer potential for contributing to sustainable income. Client Eligibility: Client eligibility for the Refugee Rural Partnership Program includes: (1) refugees; (2) asylees; (3) Cuban and Haitian entrants; (4) certain Amerasians and (5) and victims of severe forms of trafficking. Note: Detailed information on eligibility is available at 45 CFR 400.43 and in ORR State Letters 00-17, 01-13, 02-01, and 04-12. Please visit ORR's website at www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/orr to access these State letters. Refugees who are not yet citizens may participate regardless of their date of arrival in the U.S. Grantees must maintain documentation of the eligibility of all participants in their programs. II. AWARD INFORMATION
Awards under this announcement are subject to the availability of funds. III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION 1. Eligible Applicants:
Faith-based and community organizations that meet the statutory eligibility requirements 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
IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION 1. Address to Request Application Package: Larry LaverentzDivision of Community Resettlement Office of Refugee Resettlement Administration for Children and Families 8th Floor West 370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW. Washington, DC 20447 Phone: 202-401-4861 Email: larry.laverentz@acf.hhs.gov URL: www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/orr 2. Content and Form of Application Submission: Application Format In developing a proposal, the project narrative should follow the order of: 1. Objectives and Need for Assistance, 2. Approach, 3. Results or Benefits Expected, 4. Organizational Profile and 5. Budget and Budget Justification. Each application narrative should not exceed 20 pages in a 1 1/2 spaced, 12-point font with a minimum of one-inch margins. Attachments and appendices should not exceed 25 pages and should be used only to provide supporting documentation such as administration charts, position descriptions, resumes and letters of intent or partnership agreements. A table of contents, project abstract, budget and budget justification should be included but will not count in the page limit. Forms, assurances and certificates are not included in the 25 page limit. Any material submitted beyond the 20 and 25 page limits will not be reviewed by the review panel. Submit an application in either electronic or paper format. If submitted in paper format, the submission should include the signed original and two additional copies. Use clips on the copies to facilitate making copies. Faxed applications are not acceptable. Applications should be submitted on white 8.5 x 11 inch paper only. Do not use colored, oversized or folded materials. 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 policy applicable to all Federal grant applicants. The policy requires Federal grant applicants to provide a D-U-N-S number when applying for Federal grants or cooperative agreements on or after October 1, 2003. The D-U-N-S number will be required whether an applicant is submitting a paper application or using the government-wide electronic portal, Grants.gov. A D-U-N-S number will be required for every application for a new award or renewal/continuation of an award, including applications or plans under formula, entitlement, and block grant programs, submitted on or after October 1, 2003. Please ensure that your organization has a D-U-N-S number. You may acquire a D-U-N-S number at no cost by calling the dedicated toll-free D-U-N-S number request line at 1-866-705-5711 or you may request a number on-line at http://www.dnb.com. Proof of Non-Profit Status Non-profit organizations applying for funding are required to submit proof of their non-profit status. Proof of non-profit status is any one of the following:
When applying electronically, we strongly suggest that you attach your proof of non-profit status with your electronic application. Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with their applications 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. Forms, Assurances, and Certifications The project description should include all the information requirements described in the specific evaluation criteria outlined in this program announcement under Section V. Application Review Information. In addition to the project description, the applicant needs to complete all of the Standard Forms required as part of the application process for awards under this announcement. Applicants seeking financial assistance under this announcement must file the appropriate Standard Forms (SFs) as described in this section. All applicants must submit an SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance. For non-construction programs, applicants must also submit an SF-424A, Budget Information and an SF-424B, Assurances. For construction programs, applicants must also submit SF-424C, Budget Information and SF-424D, Assurances. For research programs that involve human subjects, the Protection of Human Subjects Assurance Identification/IRB Certification/Declaration of Exemption form must be submitted. All forms may be reproduced for use in submitting applications. Applicants must sign and return the standard forms with their application. Applicants must furnish, prior to award, an executed copy of the Certification Regarding Lobbying. Applicants must sign and return the certification with their application. The Certification Regarding Lobbying 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 or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with this commitment 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 its instructions.) Applicants must also understand that they will be held accountable for the smoking prohibition included within Public Law (P.L.) 103-227, Title XII Environmental Tobacco Smoke (also known as the PRO-KIDS Act of 1994). A copy of the Federal Register notice that implements the smoking prohibition is included with this form. By signing and submitting the application, applicants are providing the necessary certification and are not required to return it. Applicants must make the appropriate certification of their compliance with all Federal statutes relating to nondiscrimination. By signing and submitting the application, applicants are providing the necessary certification and are not required to return it. Complete the standard forms and the associated certifications and assurances based on the instructions on the forms. The forms and certifications may be found 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 Opportunity for 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 project description. Please reference Section IV.3 for details about acknowledgement of received applications. Electronic Submission Applicants to ACF may submit their applications in either electronic or paper format. To submit an application electronically, please use the http://www.Grants.gov site. When using www.Grants.gov, applicants will be able to download a copy of the application package, complete it off-line, and then upload and submit the application via the www.Grants.gov site. ACF will not accept grant applications via facsimile or email. 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, and Gif. IMPORTANT NOTE: Before submitting an electronic application, applicants must complete the organization registration process as well as obtain and register "electronic signature credentials" for the Authorized Organization Representative (AOR). Since this process may take more than five business days, it is important to start this process early, well in advance of the application deadline. Be sure to complete all www.Grants.gov registration processes listed on the Organization Registration Checklist, which can be found at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/registration_checklist.html. Please note the following if planning to submit an application electronically via www.Grants.gov:
Hard Copy Submission Applicants that are submitting their application in paper format should submit one original and two copies of the complete application. The original 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 application must have original signature(s). Non-Federal Reviewers Since ACF will be using non-Federal reviewers in the review process, applicants have the option of omitting from the application copies (not the original) specific salary rates or amounts for individuals specified in the application budget as well as Social Security Numbers, if otherwise required for individuals. The copies may include summary salary information. If applicants are submitting their application electronically, ACF will omit the same specific salary rate information from copies made for use during the review and selection process. 3. Submission Dates and Times: Due Date for Applications: 05/07/2007 Explanation of Due Dates The due date for receipt of applications is referenced above. Applications received after 4:30 p.m., eastern time, on the due date will be classified as late and will not be considered in the current competition. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that applications are mailed or hand-delivered or submitted electronically well in advance of the application due date and time. Applications that are submitted by mail must be received no later than 4:30 p.m., eastern time, on the due date referenced above at the address listed in Section IV.6. Hand Delivery Applications hand carried by applicants, applicant couriers, other representatives of the applicant, or by overnight/express mail couriers must be received on or before the due date referenced above, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., eastern time, at the address referenced in Section IV.6., between Monday and Friday (excluding Federal holidays). Electronic Submission Applications submitted electronically via Grants.gov must be submitted no later than 4:30 p.m., eastern time, on the due date referenced above. ACF cannot accommodate transmission of applications by facsimile or email. Late Applications Applications that do not meet the requirements above are considered late applications. ACF shall notify each late applicant that its application will not be considered in the current competition. ANY APPLICATION 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 as acts of God (floods, hurricanes, etc.) occur; when there are widespread disruptions of mail service; or in other rare cases. A determination to extend or waive deadline requirements rests with the Chief Grants Management Officer. Receipt acknowledgement for application packages will not be provided to applicants who submit their package via mail, courier services, or by hand delivery. Applicants will receive an electronic acknowledgement for applications that are submitted via http://www.Grants.gov. Checklist You may use the checklist below as a guide when preparing your application package.
Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with their applications 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.
4. Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs: State Single Point of Contact (SPOC) This program is covered under Executive Order (Exec. Order) 12372, "Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs," and 45 CFR Part 100, "Intergovernmental Review of Department of Health and Human Services Programs and Activities." Under the Exec. Order, States may design their own processes for reviewing and commenting on proposed Federal assistance under covered programs. As of August 1, 2006, the following jurisdictions have elected to participate in the Exec. Order process: Arkansas, California, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, Wisconsin, American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands. As these jurisdictions have elected to participate in the Executive Order process, they have established SPOCs. Applicants from participating jurisdictions should contact their SPOC, as soon as possible, to alert them of prospective applications and receive instructions. Applicants must submit all required materials, if any, to the SPOC and indicate the date of this submittal (or the date of contact if no submittal is required) on the Standard Form 424, item 16a. Under 45 CFR 100.8(a)(2), a SPOC has 60 days from the application deadline to comment on proposed new or competing continuation awards. SPOCs are encouraged to eliminate the submission of routine endorsements as official recommendations. Additionally, SPOCs are requested to clearly differentiate between mere advisory comments and those official State process recommendations, which may trigger the "accommodate or explain" rule. Comments submitted directly to ACF should be addressed to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Office of Grants Management, Division of Discretionary Grants, 370 L'Enfant Promenade SW., 6th Floor, Washington, DC 20447. Although the remaining jurisdictions have chosen not to participate in this process, entities that meet the eligibility requirements of the Program Announcement 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 by Federally-recognized Indian Tribes, need take no action in regard to Exec. Order 12372. The official list, including addresses, of the jurisdictions that have elected to participate in Exec. Order 12372 can be found on the following URL: http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html. 5. Funding Restrictions: Fundraising is not an allowable cost under this program. 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 other application requirements. Submit applications to one of the following addresses: Submission by Mail Daphne Weeden, Director Hand Delivery Daphne Weeden, Director Electronic Submission Please see Section IV.2 for guidelines and requirements when submitting applications electronically via http://www.Grants.gov. V. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION The Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (P.L. 104-13) Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 40 hours per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, gathering and maintaining the data needed and reviewing the collection information.The project description is approved under OMB control number 0970-0139, which expires 4/30/2007. An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. 1. Criteria: Part I THE PROJECT DESCRIPTION OVERVIEW PURPOSE The project description provides the majority of information by which an application is evaluated and ranked in competition with other applications for available assistance. The project description should be concise and complete. It should address the activity for which Federal funds are being requested. Supporting documents should be included where they can present information clearly and succinctly. In preparing the project description, information that is responsive to each of the requested evaluation criteria must be provided. Awarding offices use this and other information in making their funding recommendations. It is important, therefore, that this information be included in the application 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 intended performance. 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 than repetition. Supporting information concerning activities that will not be directly funded by the grant or information that does not directly pertain to an integral part of the grant-funded activity should be placed in an appendix. Pages should be numbered and a table of contents should be included for easy reference. Part II GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR PREPARING A FULL PROJECT DESCRIPTION INTRODUCTION Applicants that are required to submit a full project description shall prepare the project description statement in accordance with the following instructions while being aware of the specified evaluation criteria. The text options give a broad overview of what the project description should include while the evaluation criteria identify the measures that will be used to evaluate applications. PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT Provide a summary of the project description (one page or less) with reference to the funding request. OBJECTIVES AND NEED FOR ASSISTANCE Clearly identify the physical, economic, social, financial, institutional, and/or other problem(s) requiring a solution. The need for assistance must be demonstrated and the principal and subordinate objectives of the project must be clearly stated; supporting documentation, such as letters of support and testimonials from concerned interests other than the applicant, may be included. Any relevant data based on planning studies should be included or referred to in the endnotes/footnotes. Incorporate demographic data and participant/beneficiary information, as needed. In developing the project description, the applicant may volunteer or be requested to provide information on the total range of projects currently being conducted and supported (or to be initiated), some of which may be outside the scope of the program announcement. RESULTS OR BENEFITS EXPECTED Identify the results and benefits to be derived. ORR is particularly interested in:
APPROACH Outline a plan of action that describes the scope and detail of how the proposed work will be accomplished. Account for all functions or activities identified in the application. Cite factors that might accelerate or decelerate the work and state your reason for taking the proposed approach rather than others. Describe any unusual features of the project such as design or technological innovations, reductions in cost or time, or extraordinary social and community involvement. Provide quantitative monthly or quarterly projections of the accomplishments to be achieved for each function or activity in such terms as the number of people to be served and the number of activities accomplished. When accomplishments cannot be quantified by activity or function, list them in chronological order to show the schedule of accomplishments and their target dates. If any data is to be collected, maintained, and/or disseminated, clearance may be required from the OMB. This clearance pertains to any "collection of information that is conducted or sponsored by ACF." Provide a list of organizations, cooperating entities, consultants, or other key individuals who will work on the project along with a short description of the nature of their effort or contribution. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION The following are requests for additional information that must be included in the application:
BUDGET AND BUDGET JUSTIFICATION Provide a budget with line-item detail and detailed calculations for each budget object class identified on the Budget Information Form (SF-424A or SF-424C). Detailed calculations must include estimation methods, quantities, unit costs, and other similar quantitative detail sufficient for the calculation to be duplicated. If matching is a requirement, include a breakout by the funding sources identified in Block 15 of the SF-424. Provide a narrative budget justification that describes how the categorical costs are derived. Discuss the necessity, reasonableness, and allocation of the proposed costs.
TOTAL DIRECT CHARGES, TOTAL INDIRECT CHARGES, TOTAL PROJECT COSTS EVALUATION CRITERIA: The corresponding score values indicate the relative importance that ACF places on each evaluation criterion; however, applicants need not develop their applications precisely according to the order presented. Application components may be organized such that a reviewer will be able to follow a seamless and logical flow of information (i.e., from a broad overview of the project to more detailed information about how it will be conducted). In considering how applicants will carry out the responsibilities addressed under this announcement, competing applications for financial assistance will be reviewed and evaluated against the following criteria: OBJECTIVES AND NEED FOR ASSISTANCE - 25 points The applicant has a good understanding of the needs or challenges faced by refugees that limit their opportunities for long-term self-sufficiency in agriculture and/or rural entrepreneurship in the community and provides information on the refugee community and number engaged in agriculture including urban gardens and agricultural related businesses. Demonstrates a knowledge of the type(s) of agriculture common to the area, to include crops grown and acreage sizes, on the part of refugees, as well as other farmers. Describes the challenges and opportunities associated with these six elements: marketing, land acquisition, obtaining financing, technical assistance and training, establishing collaboration/partnerships, and language and culture. Demonstrates an understanding of other organizations with responsibility and resources and why refugees have or have not had difficulty accessing services. Copies of reports, surveys or letters can be included that describe any aspect of the challenges and opportunities that affect refugees in agriculture. APPROACH - 25 points The plan or strategies to be employed are consistent and logical in terms of dealing with the challenges and taking advantage of the opportunities/positives described within the six elements in "Objectives and Need for Assistance." The management plan identifies the major activities by projected start-up dates and summarizes the respective roles and responsibilities of partner or resource agencies, as well as the mechanism(s) for collaboration. Priority activities are indicated. The strategy for minimizing the issue of cultural and language barriers, including collaboration with ethnic or other community-based organizations that have language and cultural understanding, are clearly described. Unusual activities or new technologies that are believed to hold promise for sustainable income for refugees are explained. Factors that might accelerate or decelerate the success of the project are described. RESULTS OR BENEFITS EXPECTED - 20 points The projected results relate to the plan and activities under the Approach. Goals and/or expected results may be both quantitative and qualitative or strategic oriented and for the short run (one year), as well as the long run (three years). Process results are clearly related to the long-term objectives of the project. Organizational and institutional development goals are described. ORGANIZATIONAL PROFILES - 15 points Knowledge and experience related to refugee services, agriculture, microenterprise, and project management and coordination are described. Similar information is provided for organizations proposed for subgrants under this project. Any specific experience and/or training relevant to the Approach and other elements of the project proposal are described. Supporting documentation, to include letters of support and/or signed agreements that define the functions of organizations involved in supporting the objectives of this project, are included. BUDGET AND BUDGET JUSTIFICATION - 15 points A line-item budget and a justification for each line item are provided. Major budget items, in particular, should be relatable back to the Approach. The projected functions and budget line items of any subgrant are specified. The level of funding requested is consistent with the level of proposed activities under Approach and outcomes under Results or Benefits Expected. 2. Review and Selection Process: No grant award will be made under this announcement on the basis of an incomplete application. Each application will be screened to determine whether it was received by the closing date and time (Section IV.3.) and whether the requested amount exceeds the ceiling or upper range value, whichever is appropriate (Section II.) Please reference Section IV.2 for information on non-Federal reviewers in the review process. Approved but Unfunded Applications Applications that are approved but unfunded may be held over for funding in the next funding cycle, pending the availability of funds, for a period not to exceed one year. 3. Anticipated Announcement and Award Dates: Notification of successful applicants-September 30, 2007. VI. AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION 1. Award Notices: The successful applicants will be notified through the issuance of a Financial Assistance Award document, which sets forth the amount of funds granted, the terms and conditions of the grant, the effective date of the grant, the budget period for which initial support will be given, the non-Federal share to be provided (if applicable), and the total project period for which support is contemplated. The Financial Assistance Award will be signed by the Grants Officer and transmitted via postal mail. Following the finalization of funding decisions, organizations whose applications will not be funded will be notified by letter, signed by the Program Office head. 2. Administrative 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 ACF program 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, their inherently religious activities from the services funded under this program. Regulations pertaining to the Equal Treatment for Faith-Based Organizations, which includes the prohibition against Federal funding of inherently religious activities, can be found at the HHS web site at: http://www.hhs.gov/fbci/waisgate21.pdf. A faith-based organization receiving HHS funds retains its independence from Federal, State, and local governments, and may continue to carry out its mission, including the definition, practice, and expression of its religious beliefs. For example, a faith-based organization may use space in its facilities to provide secular programs or services funded with Federal funds without removing religious art, icons, scriptures, or other religious symbols. In addition, a faith-based organization that receives Federal funds retains its authority over its internal governance, and it may retain religious terms in its organization's name, select its board members on a religious basis, and include religious references in its organization's mission statements and other governing documents in accordance with all program requirements, statutes, and other applicable requirements governing the conduct of HHS funded activities. Faith-based and community organizations may reference the "Guidance to Faith-Based and Community Organizations on Partnering 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 grants and cooperative agreements. Unlike previous HHS policy documents, the GPS is intended to be shared with and used by grantees. It became effective October 1, 2006 and is applicable to all Operating Divisions (OPDIVS), such as the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), except the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The GPS covers basic grants processes, standard terms and conditions and points of contact as well as important OPDIV-specific requirements. Appendices include a glossary of terms and a list of standard abbreviations 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 financial reports (SF-269 found at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html) throughout the project period. Program progress and financial reports are due 30 days after the reporting period. Final programmatic and financial reports are due 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: Larry Laverentz Grants Management Office Contact: Daphne Weeden, Director VIII. OTHER INFORMATION
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