Culturally Specific Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services

The Culturally Specific Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services program, administered by the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) within the Department of Health and Human Services, provides cooperative agreement funding to support survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. The program focuses on delivering trauma-informed, community-based interventions to address emergent needs resulting from public health emergencies and promoting strategic partnerships. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, Native American tribal organizations, and public or private institutions of higher education. While the primary goal is the delivery of culturally specific services, optional activities may include job training, employment services, legal advocacy, and the identification of safe, affordable housing. The funding opportunity, identified as HHS-2026-ACF-OFVPS-EV-0036, offers a first-year award ceiling of 200,000 dollars within a four-year project period. Applications are due by September 8, 2026, via Grants.gov and are evaluated based on a weighted scoring system prioritizing impact and approach, resources and capabilities, budget justification, and alignment with ACF strategic priorities. Recipients must adhere to strict confidentiality protocols regarding victim data, utilize evidence-based practices, and comply with 2 CFR Part 200 and the HHS Grants Policy Statement. Key requirements for applicants include maintaining an active Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and providing a sustainability plan to ensure the continuity of services after federal funding concludes.