Yesterday, August 4, the Office of Head Start (OHS) held a webinar, Accessing One-time Funds for Healthy Eating in Head Start Programs Webinar, to support the application process for one-time supplemental nutrition and healthy funding for Head Start programs (including Early Head Start programs) that was announced in Program Instruction (PI) ACF-OHS-PI-25-02 on July 29. Following a review of the PI, OHS staff responded to questions from participants. Here, we recap the highlights from the Q&A that we think might be useful to ensure you have what you need to get started on your application as the deadline fast approaches.
Note that while OHS announced they will post the webinar recording, as of the publishing of this blog post, it is not yet available.
1. Programs should complete applications as soon as possible. The priority deadline for applications is August 22, and while applications may be accepted after this deadline, earlier submission is best. OHS is planning to announce all awards funded through this opportunity by September 30. OHS further explained that programs could work with their Regional Office to request a carryover or no cost extension, as needed, if their funding year ends September 30 or shortly thereafter.
2. Applications should clearly describe the categories of funding requested and additional funding streams. This includes which of the four allowable areas will be addressed – food service upgrades; materials, supplies, and equipment; nutrition education resources, and/or non-recurring personnel costs. Funding may be used in more than one area. Programs should also describe how additional funding streams (e.g., USDA) are being leveraged, as well as how other funding sources are not being supplanted.
3. Timelines should be clear, and each proposed activity should have key milestones and completion dates. When asked about the timeline for using the funding, OHS responded that there is no specific requirement (e.g., funding does not need to be used within 6 or 12 months). In the application, programs must describe the timelines that are needed to complete each proposed activity.
4. There isn’t a specific limit on the number of pages for the application. The response from OHS to a question about application length indicates there isn’t a set page limit. Programs were discouraged from submitting applications that are on the longer side (e.g., 30 pages). It was stressed that it is most important that applications address the funding requirements. We recommend trying to stay within 10 pages, if possible, given this guidance and the short turnaround time that OHS has for review and approval.
5. Programs should apply for what is needed, and a 20% non-federal match (or waiver request) is required. OHS noted there is not a maximum limit on funding that can be requested. It was not shared how much total funding is available or how funding decisions will be made.
6. Applications will be submitted in HSES. Within HSES, programs were advised to navigate to the financials tab for their grant. This is where you should see “Supplement – Nutrition” and can submit an application.
7. OHS advised programs to refer to additional resources for more information about potential uses of funding. The PI was referenced, as were webinars on health and nutrition that were offered this past spring. You can find a collection of resources on HeadStart.gov, Nourishing Futures with Healthy Eating and Nutrition.
The turnaround time for this funding is quick. If you missed our blog post last week, check out Get Ready to Apply for One-Time Nutrition and Healthy Eating Funding for tips for how you can prepare.
Foundations for Families offers a variety of consulting services to Head Start programs. If your program plans to apply for this one-time supplemental funding and needs assistance gathering data, determining needs, drafting an application, or designing a funding strategy, we may be able to help. Please reach out and we would be glad to discuss your program’s needs.
Thank you.
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