Opportunity Information: Apply for HHS 2020 ACF OFA ZJ 1846
The Fatherhood - Family-focused, Interconnected, Resilient, and Essential (Fatherhood FIRE) opportunity is a competitive federal grant program offered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) through the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Office of Family Assistance (OFA). Its purpose is to fund projects that promote responsible fatherhood under authorities in Section 403(a)(2) of the Social Security Act. Funded programs are expected to support fathers and families through activities that fall within three broad, allowable service areas: promoting or sustaining healthy marriage and relationships, strengthening responsible parenting, and improving economic stability.
A central feature of Fatherhood FIRE is that it is targeted exclusively to adult fathers, meaning participants must be age 18 or older. The eligible fathers (including father figures) must have children who are age 24 or younger. The program is designed to serve both "community fathers" in the general population and fathers affected by incarceration, including those currently incarcerated who are preparing to return, as well as those who have already reentered their communities after incarceration. This framing signals that ACF is looking for fatherhood initiatives that are practical and responsive to real barriers families face, including the challenges of reentry, employment disruptions, and maintaining family connections.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to propose one specific program model for one specific service population rather than attempting to run multiple distinct models for multiple populations in a single application. Examples of a focused service population include rural community fathers, urban community fathers, or reentering fathers. This emphasis suggests that ACF values clarity and depth of implementation, with a well-defined target group and an approach tailored to that group’s circumstances, rather than a broad but less cohesive set of services.
ACF also indicates it is interested in supporting a range of project sizes and levels of reach, including high-impact initiatives, moderate-scope projects, and smaller-scope efforts. Regardless of scale, applicants must demonstrate organizational capacity to carry out the proposed project, which typically means showing they have the staffing, partnerships, leadership, systems, and experience to deliver services effectively and manage federal grant requirements.
From an administrative standpoint, this is a discretionary grant (Funding Opportunity Number: HHS 2020 ACF OFA ZJ 1846) in the Income Security and Social Services category (CFDA 93.086). The opportunity was created on June 1, 2020, with an original application closing date of July 1, 2020, and applications had to be submitted electronically by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on the due date. The maximum award amount listed is $1,500,000, and ACF anticipated making approximately 68 awards, indicating a relatively large cohort of funded projects nationwide.
Eligibility is broad and includes many common public and nonprofit entities. Eligible applicants include state, county, and city or township governments; special district governments; independent school districts; public and private institutions of higher education; federally recognized Native American tribal governments and certain tribal organizations; public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities; and nonprofits both with and without 501(c)(3) status (excluding institutions of higher education). The listing also includes an "Others" category with direction to review the full eligibility language in the official notice for any additional clarifications or conditions.
Overall, Fatherhood FIRE is structured to fund targeted, evidence-informed fatherhood programming that strengthens family relationships, supports parenting roles, and improves fathers’ economic footing, with explicit inclusion of fathers impacted by incarceration and reentry. The program’s focus on selecting a single model for a clearly defined population, combined with the requirement to demonstrate implementation capacity, points to a preference for applications that are specific, operationally realistic, and built to deliver consistent services to the fathers they intend to serve.Apply for HHS 2020 ACF OFA ZJ 1846
- The Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families - OFA in the income security and social services sector is offering a public funding opportunity titled "Fatherhood - Family-focused, Interconnected, Resilient, and Essential (Fatherhood FIRE)" and is now available to receive applicants.
- Interested and eligible applicants and submit their applications by referencing the CFDA number(s): 93.086.
- This funding opportunity was created on Jun 01, 2020.
- Applicants must submit their applications by Jul 01, 2020 Electronically submitted applications must be submitted no later than 1159 p.m., ET, on the listed application due date.. (Agency may still review applications by suitable applicants for the remaining/unused allocated funding in 2026.)
- Each selected applicant is eligible to receive up to $1,500,000.00 in funding.
- The number of recipients for this funding is limited to 68 candidate(s).
- Eligible applicants include: State governments, County governments, City or township governments, Special district governments, Independent school districts, Public and State controlled institutions of higher education, Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized), Public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities, Native American tribal organizations (other than Federally recognized tribal governments), Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education, Nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education, Private institutions of higher education, Others (see text field entitled Additional Information on Eligibility for clarification).
[Watch] Creating a grant proposal using the step-by-step wizard inside the applicant portal:
Fatherhood FIRE Grant FAQs
What is the Fatherhood - Family-focused, Interconnected, Resilient, and Essential (Fatherhood FIRE) opportunity?
Fatherhood FIRE is a competitive federal discretionary grant program offered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) through the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Office of Family Assistance (OFA). It funds projects that promote responsible fatherhood under Section 403(a)(2) of the Social Security Act.
Which federal office is administering this grant?
The grant is administered by HHS through ACF, specifically the Office of Family Assistance (OFA).
What is the main purpose of Fatherhood FIRE funding?
The purpose is to fund projects that promote responsible fatherhood and support fathers and families through allowable activities in three broad service areas: healthy marriage and relationships, responsible parenting, and economic stability.
What service areas are allowable under this program?
Funded programs are expected to provide activities that fall within three allowable service areas: (1) promoting or sustaining healthy marriage and relationships, (2) strengthening responsible parenting, and (3) improving economic stability.
Who is the program intended to serve?
The program is targeted exclusively to adult fathers (including father figures). Participants must be age 18 or older and must have children who are age 24 or younger.
Are father figures eligible participants?
Yes. The opportunity description explicitly includes eligible fathers "including father figures," as long as the age requirements are met.
What are the age requirements for participants and their children?
Participants must be adult fathers age 18 or older, and they must have children who are age 24 or younger.
Does Fatherhood FIRE serve fathers impacted by incarceration?
Yes. The program is designed to serve both community fathers and fathers affected by incarceration, including those currently incarcerated who are preparing to return as well as those who have already reentered their communities.
Does the program allow projects that serve both community fathers and reentering fathers?
The opportunity notes that ACF is interested in serving both groups, but it also strongly encourages applicants to propose one specific program model for one specific service population rather than multiple distinct models for multiple populations within one application.
What does ACF recommend regarding program design and target population?
Applicants are strongly encouraged to propose a single specific program model for a single specific service population, rather than attempting to run multiple distinct models for multiple populations in one application.
What are examples of a focused service population?
Examples provided include rural community fathers, urban community fathers, or reentering fathers.
Is ACF interested only in large, high-impact projects?
No. ACF indicates interest in a range of project sizes and levels of reach, including high-impact initiatives, moderate-scope projects, and smaller-scope efforts.
What does an applicant need to show regarding capacity?
Applicants must demonstrate organizational capacity to carry out the proposed project. The description notes this typically means showing staffing, partnerships, leadership, systems, and experience to deliver services effectively and manage federal grant requirements.
Is this a discretionary or formula grant?
This opportunity is described as a discretionary grant.
What is the Funding Opportunity Number (FON)?
The Funding Opportunity Number listed is HHS 2020 ACF OFA ZJ 1846.
What is the CFDA number and program category?
The opportunity is listed in the Income Security and Social Services category with CFDA 93.086.
When was this opportunity created and when did it close?
The listing states it was created on June 1, 2020. The original application closing date was July 1, 2020.
How were applications required to be submitted?
Applications had to be submitted electronically by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on the due date.
What is the maximum award amount?
The maximum award amount listed is $1,500,000.
How many awards did ACF anticipate making?
ACF anticipated making approximately 68 awards.
Who is eligible to apply for Fatherhood FIRE?
Eligibility is broad and includes state, county, and city or township governments; special district governments; independent school districts; public and private institutions of higher education; federally recognized Native American tribal governments and certain tribal organizations; public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities; and nonprofits both with and without 501(c)(3) status (excluding institutions of higher education). The listing also includes an "Others" category directing applicants to review the full eligibility language in the official notice for additional clarifications or conditions.
Can nonprofits without 501(c)(3) status apply?
Yes. The eligibility list includes nonprofits without 501(c)(3) status (excluding institutions of higher education).
Are institutions of higher education eligible?
Yes. Both public and private institutions of higher education are listed as eligible applicants.
Are tribal governments and tribal organizations eligible?
Yes. Federally recognized Native American tribal governments and certain tribal organizations are included in the eligibility list.
Are local governments eligible to apply?
Yes. State, county, and city or township governments are listed among eligible applicants, along with special district governments.
Are school districts eligible applicants?
Yes. Independent school districts are listed as eligible applicants.
Are public housing authorities eligible?
Yes. Public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities are listed as eligible applicants.
What does the "Others" eligibility category mean?
The listing includes an "Others" category with direction to review the full eligibility language in the official notice for any additional clarifications or conditions.
What kinds of fatherhood initiatives does ACF seem to prefer based on the description?
Based on the description, ACF appears to prefer targeted, evidence-informed programming that is specific about the service population and program model, operationally realistic to implement, and supported by demonstrated organizational capacity.
Does the opportunity emphasize addressing reentry and related barriers?
Yes. The description highlights inclusion of fathers affected by incarceration and reentry and notes challenges such as reentry, employment disruptions, and maintaining family connections as real barriers the initiatives should be responsive to.
Browse more opportunities from the same category: Income Security and Social Services
Next opportunity: SNAP Data and Technical Assistance (DATA) Grants
Previous opportunity: Managing American Corners Kosovo Grants
Applicant Portal:
Are you interested in learning about about how to apply for this government funding opportunity? You can create a free applicant account and receive instant access to our applicant portal that many business owners like you have benefited from.
Apply for HHS 2020 ACF OFA ZJ 1846
Applicants also applied for:
Applicants who have applied for this opportunity (HHS 2020 ACF OFA ZJ 1846) also looked into and applied for these:
| Funding Opportunity |
|---|
| Grants for Coordination of Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and Child Welfare Services to Tribal Families at Risk of Child Abuse or Neglect Apply for HHS 2020 ACF OFA FN 1830 Funding Number: HHS 2020 ACF OFA FN 1830 Agency: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families - OFA Category: Income Security and Social Services Funding Amount: $225,000 |
| Tribal Colleges and Universities Head Start Partnership Program Grants Apply for HHS 2020 ACF OHS YT 1851 Funding Number: HHS 2020 ACF OHS YT 1851 Agency: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families - OHS Category: Income Security and Social Services Funding Amount: $4,000,000 |
| Title V Competitive Sexual Risk Avoidance Education Apply for HHS 2020 ACF ACYF TS 1821 Funding Number: HHS 2020 ACF ACYF TS 1821 Agency: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children Families - ACYF/FYSB Category: Income Security and Social Services Funding Amount: $450,000 |
| Community Economic Development Projects Apply for HHS 2020 ACF OCS EE 1803 Funding Number: HHS 2020 ACF OCS EE 1803 Agency: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families - OCS Category: Income Security and Social Services Funding Amount: $800,000 |
| Standing Announcement for Residential (Therapeutic) Services for Unaccompanied Alien Children Apply for HHS 2021 ACF ORR ZU 1785 Funding Number: HHS 2021 ACF ORR ZU 1785 Agency: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families - ORR Category: Income Security and Social Services Funding Amount: $6,000,000 |
| Standing Announcement for Residential (Staff Secure) Services for Unaccompanied Alien Children Apply for HHS 2021 ACF ORR ZU 1786 Funding Number: HHS 2021 ACF ORR ZU 1786 Agency: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families - ORR Category: Income Security and Social Services Funding Amount: $12,000,000 |
| Standing Announcement for Residential (Secure) Services for Unaccompanied Alien Children Apply for HHS 2021 ACF ORR ZU 1784 Funding Number: HHS 2021 ACF ORR ZU 1784 Agency: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families - ORR Category: Income Security and Social Services Funding Amount: $8,000,000 |
| Head Start and/or Early Head Start Grantee -- The Cities of Meriden, Wallingford, Southington and Berlin, Connecticut Apply for HHS 2020 ACF OHS CH R01 1857 Funding Number: HHS 2020 ACF OHS CH R01 1857 Agency: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families - OHS Category: Income Security and Social Services Funding Amount: $1,320,368 |
| Head Start and/or Early Head Start Grantee -- Hood River, Wasco, and Jefferson Counties, Oregon and Skamania and Klickitat Counties, Washington Apply for HHS 2020 ACF OHS CH R10 1856 Funding Number: HHS 2020 ACF OHS CH R10 1856 Agency: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families - OHS Category: Income Security and Social Services Funding Amount: $5,538,160 |
| Standing Announcement for Residential (Long Term Foster Care) Services for Unaccompanied Alien Children Apply for HHS 2021 ACF ORR ZU 1787 Funding Number: HHS 2021 ACF ORR ZU 1787 Agency: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families - ORR Category: Income Security and Social Services Funding Amount: $10,000,000 |
| Lifespan Respite Care Program: Special Projects to Strengthen Program Development, Implementation and Sustainability Apply for HHS 2020 ACL AOA LRSP 0432 Funding Number: HHS 2020 ACL AOA LRSP 0432 Agency: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Community Living Category: Income Security and Social Services Funding Amount: $750,000 |
| American Indian and Alaska Native Early Head Start Expansion and Early Head Start-Child Care Partnership Grants Apply for HHS 2020 ACF OHS HI 1853 Funding Number: HHS 2020 ACF OHS HI 1853 Agency: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families - OHS Category: Income Security and Social Services Funding Amount: $3,567,886 |
| Migrant and Seasonal Early Head Start Expansion and Early Head Start-Child Care Partnership Grants Apply for HHS 2020 ACF OHS HM R12 1854 Funding Number: HHS 2020 ACF OHS HM R12 1854 Agency: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families - OHS Category: Income Security and Social Services Funding Amount: $4,500,000 |
| Early Head Start Expansion and Early Head Start-Child Care Partnership Grants Apply for HHS 2020 ACF OHS HP 1852 Funding Number: HHS 2020 ACF OHS HP 1852 Agency: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families - OHS Category: Income Security and Social Services Funding Amount: $21,096,468 |
| Migrant and Seasonal Head Start (MSHS) Expansion Apply for HHS 2020 ACF OHS CM R12 1847 Funding Number: HHS 2020 ACF OHS CM R12 1847 Agency: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families - OHS Category: Income Security and Social Services Funding Amount: $13,442,656 |
| Head Start and/or Early Head Start Expansion - Alabama, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, and South Carolina Apply for HHS 2020 ACF OHS CH 1818 Funding Number: HHS 2020 ACF OHS CH 1818 Agency: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families - OHS Category: Income Security and Social Services Funding Amount: $4,027,077 |
| American Indian/Alaska Native (AIAN) Head Start and/or Early Head Start Expansion Apply for HHS 2020 ACF OHS CI R11 1845 Funding Number: HHS 2020 ACF OHS CI R11 1845 Agency: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families - OHS Category: Income Security and Social Services Funding Amount: $14,450,824 |
| Preschool Development Grant Birth through Five (PDG B-5) Renewal Grant Apply for HHS 2020 ACF OCC TP 1855 Funding Number: HHS 2020 ACF OCC TP 1855 Agency: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families - OCC Category: Income Security and Social Services Funding Amount: $10,000,000 |
| Disaster Assistance for State Units on Aging (SUAs) and Tribal Organizations in Major Disasters Declared by the President Apply for HHS 2021 ACL AOA DASG 0002 Funding Number: HHS 2021 ACL AOA DASG 0002 Agency: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Community Living Category: Income Security and Social Services Funding Amount: $600,000 |
| Head Start/Early Head Start Grantee -- United States Virgin Islands Apply for HHS 2021 ACF OHS CH R02 1937 Funding Number: HHS 2021 ACF OHS CH R02 1937 Agency: Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families - OHS Category: Income Security and Social Services Funding Amount: $9,016,306 |
Grant application guides and resources
It is always free to apply for government grants. However the process may be very complex depending on the funding opportunity you are applying for. Let us help you!
Apply for Grants
Inside Our Applicants Portal
Access Applicants Portal
- Grants Repository - Access current and historic funding opportunities with ease. Thousands of funding opportunities are published every week. We can help you sort through the database and find the eligible ones to apply for.
- Applicant Video Guides - The grant application process can be challenging to follow. We can help you with intuitive video guides to speed up the process and eliminate errors in submissions.
- Grant Proposal Wizard - We have developed a network of private funding organizations and investors across the United States. We can reach out and submit your proposal to these contacts to maximize your chances of getting the funding you need.
Premium leads for funding administrators, grant writers, and loan issuers
Thousands of people visit our website for their funding needs every day. When a user creates a grant proposal and files for submission, we pass the information on to funding administrators, grant writers, and government loan issuers.
If you manage government grant programs, provide grant writing services, or issue personal or government loans, we can help you reach your audience.
Learn More
Request more information:
Would you like to learn more about this funding opportunity, similar opportunities to "HHS 2020 ACF OFA ZJ 1846", eligibility, application service, and/or application tips? Submit an inquiry below:
Don't forget to subscribe to our grant alerts mailing list to receive weekly alerts on new and updated grant funding opportunities like this one in your email.