Group Respite

The Group Respite grant program, administered by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD), is designed to provide short-term group supports for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) who are not currently receiving Home and Community-Based Waiver (HCBS) services. This initiative aims to support individuals in remaining in community-based settings—such as their own or family homes—while reducing reliance on long-term care solutions. Funded with $790,200 in state funds, the program reflects Illinois’s ongoing commitment to increasing access to developmental disabilities services and easing caregiver burdens. Respite services under this program may be provided in both planned and emergency contexts, with an emphasis on creating opportunities for social interaction, community inclusion, and engagement in recreational or skill-building activities. These include field trips, arts and crafts, cooking classes, supervised community outings, and more. By grouping individuals together in supportive environments, the program also offers critical relief to caregivers, reducing their stress and the likelihood of care crises. Participants must have an I/DD diagnosis and not be enrolled in any other waiver-funded program. The grant is open to providers with a proven history of serving this population and the operational capacity to implement group-based services. The funding will be awarded through a competitive renewal process, with the individual award amounts negotiable and historically averaging approximately $79,018.61. Indirect costs are allowed with prior approval and must be registered through the Illinois Indirect Cost Rate Election System (ICRES). While there is no matching requirement, recipients must comply with strict programmatic and financial reporting rules, including the provision of satisfaction surveys and tracking of all individuals served, referred, or waitlisted. Administrative costs must not exceed 10% of the total grant budget. Eligible applicants must demonstrate their capacity to deliver respite services to the I/DD community and meet pre-qualification requirements such as SAM registration, UEI provision, and good standing with relevant Illinois and federal oversight agencies. Applications must include a detailed program narrative, budget justification, and signed official forms such as the Uniform Application for State Grant Assistance and Conflict of Interest Disclosure. Applicants failing to meet submission or registration requirements will be disqualified without review. The application window opens on March 23, 2026, and closes sharply at 5:00 p.m. CST on April 23, 2026. Although a Letter of Intent is not required, applicants are encouraged to participate in an optional technical assistance webinar scheduled for March 31, 2026, at 11:15 a.m. CST. Awards are expected to be announced by June 12, 2026, with the performance period running from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2029, contingent on continued appropriation and satisfactory performance. Prospective applicants are encouraged to thoroughly review eligibility criteria and ensure timely electronic submission via email. All inquiries should be directed to Shannon Dyson at [email protected]. Supporting documentation, including the full NOFO and application forms, is available through the IDHS website. Renewals for two additional years are possible for awardees who meet reporting and performance standards.

Submit early to avoid disqualification; align with program goals; all required forms must be included or application will be rejected.