CHF | 2026-2027 Comunity Grants RFP

The 2026-2027 Community Grants RFP includes up to $1.74M in total available funding per year for up to seven grants for the period from April 1, 2027 through June 30, 2029. This funding must be used for the specific program purposes outlined in this RFP. Funding awards are subject to the availability of funds and grant terms. The Comprehensive Year-Round & Summer Learning Strategy supports children and youth by providing comprehensive expanded learning opportunities in community-based settings outside of regular school hours throughout the school year and summer. As part of DCYF's Ready to Learn & Succeed in School Result Area, programs provide academic support, skill building, physical activity, enrichment and grade-level transition supports that promote learning, positive youth development and school success. This strategy is funded through DCYF's Out-of-School Time (OST) Service Area, which supports comprehensive afterschool programming in school- and community-based settings. OST programs provide children and youth from low-income and working families with meaningful learning opportunities that foster curiosity, build social-emotional skills and reinforce learning beyond the school day. Programs are expected to be rooted in youth development principles, provide culturally responsive services and create opportunities for physical activity, healthy living and positive relationships with caring adults and peers. This RFP includes two separate grants opportunities under the Comprehensive Year-Round & Summer Learning Strategy, one summer-only award at Ella Hill Hutch Community Center and up to three District 5–Year-Round awards. Proposers may apply for one or both grants but must submit a separate proposal for each one. The Resource Navigation & Service Connection Strategy supports children, youth, TAY/A and families by connecting them to services that meet their needs and by helping them navigate complex systems. As part of DCYF's Supported by Nurturing Families & Communities Result Area, programs build trusted relationships with participants, assess their needs and provide individualized navigation and support to help them access services. Programs leverage established networks of community organizations and service providers to connect participants to a range of supports and track their progress toward meeting identified needs. This strategy is funded through DCYF's Outreach & Access Service Area, which connects children, youth, TAY/A and families to programs, resources and opportunities that support their well-being. Through trusted relationships, culturally responsive engagement and community-based outreach, funded programs reduce barriers to accessing services, increase awareness of available resources and help participants navigate and connect to the services they need. Programs funded under this Service Area are expected to build trust within the communities they serve, develop strong relationships with community partners and provide accessible, responsive and culturally relevant services.