Garrett Lee Smith State/Tribal Youth Suicide Prevention and Early Intervention Program

The Garrett Lee Smith State/Tribal Youth Suicide Prevention and Early Intervention Program is a federally funded initiative administered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), a sub-agency under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. This program reflects SAMHSA’s ongoing commitment to enhancing behavioral health outcomes and reducing youth suicide across the United States. The grant opportunity is forecasted under the opportunity number SM-26-010 and continues the legacy of the Garrett Lee Smith Memorial Act, which aims to bolster state and tribal efforts in addressing the complex factors leading to youth suicide. The primary goal of this program is to support States, Territories, and Tribes in the implementation of comprehensive, community-based suicide prevention and early intervention strategies targeting youth up to age 24. These strategies are to be deployed in settings such as schools, educational institutions, juvenile justice systems, foster care systems, pediatric healthcare environments, and mental health and substance use treatment programs. The intent is to create robust systems of care that identify at-risk youth early and connect them with necessary services and supports to prevent suicidal behaviors and deaths. Funding is made available through cooperative agreements, which indicates substantial involvement by SAMHSA in the implementation of the program. An estimated total of $17,214,829 is allocated for this funding cycle, with approximately 23 awards expected to be made. However, the exact per-award funding ceiling and floor have not been specified at this stage. There is no requirement for cost sharing or matching funds, which enhances accessibility for eligible applicants. Eligible applicants are strictly defined by statute and include States and Territories, or a public or private nonprofit organization that has been officially designated by a State or Indian Tribe to develop and implement a statewide youth suicide prevention strategy. In addition, Federally recognized Indian tribes, tribal organizations, and urban Indian organizations that are actively involved in tribal youth suicide early intervention and prevention efforts are eligible. This ensures the program reaches a diverse set of applicants with the appropriate infrastructure and authority to carry out impactful prevention work. While the estimated application open date is April 15, 2026, the forecast does not yet indicate a closing deadline or project start date. As this is a forecasted opportunity, applicants are encouraged to begin preparing early by reviewing similar past solicitations, identifying collaborative partners, and understanding evaluation metrics that are likely to be required. No pre-application steps such as letters of intent or concept papers are mentioned, although applicants should verify upon full release. Inquiries about the program can be directed to Johari Dyson at (240) 276-1096 or via email at [email protected]. The forecast’s last update was on March 20, 2026. As the application period has not yet begun and the program recurs annually, organizations interested in applying should monitor Grants.gov for updates and prepare for a formal application window opening in mid-April 2026.