Field-Initiated Approach to Addressing Racial Bias and Inequity in Child Welfare

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The purpose of this NOFO would be to fund grants that support the development, implementation, and evaluation of field-initiated approaches to addressing racial bias and inequity in child welfare to improve the safety, stability, and well-being of families in traditionally underserved communities.  This funding opportunity is intended to enable communities to design and lead targeted solutions to systemic issues of disproportionality experienced by racial and ethnic minorities at varying points across the child welfare continuum. During the project period, grant recipients will address identified barriers to the access of equitable services and treatment for underserved communities by proposing and implementing strategies that allow for inclusivity of those with lived experience, shared power in decision-making, and community led efforts towards strengthening and supporting families.  Applicants will be required to submit supporting data from their respective states or communities that demonstrate disproportionality, and any pre-analysis (if available) that supports a description of the problem or statement of need.   Upon award, grant recipients must be willing to complete a thorough exploration or assessment that at a minimum involves a review of current practices, policies, and service delivery to the target population. Ultimately, applicants must demonstrate readiness and a commitment to inclusive, co-designed solutions to address issues of racial bias and inequity and reflect what communities say they need to thrive.

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