§ Federal grant opportunity · HHS-2026-ACF-ACYF-CY-0160

    National Communication System for Runaway and Homeless Youth Program

    Administration for Children & Families - ACYF/FYSB is accepting applications for National Communication System for Runaway and Homeless Youth Program. The deadline is August 19, 2026 and the published award range is $1M – $1.8M.

    Key facts

    Funder
    Administration for Children & Families - ACYF/FYSB
    Application deadline
    August 19, 2026
    Award range
    $1M – $1.8M
    Eligibility
    In accordance with section 331 of the Runaway and Homeless Youth (RHY) Act, priority will be given to applicants demonstrating experience in providing communication services to vulnerable youth, youth at-risk, runaway and homeless youth, including telephone, Internet, mobile applications, and other technology-driven services. Applications from individuals (including sole proprietorships) and foreign entities are not eligible and will be disqualified from the merit review and funding under this funding opportunity. Faith-based and community organizations that meet the eligibility requirements are eligible for awards under this funding opportunity.
    Geography
    United States
    Focus areas
    Human Services
    Opportunity number
    HHS-2026-ACF-ACYF-CY-0160

    Program overview

    ​​The Division of Runaway and Homeless Youth will award one cooperative agreement on a competitive basis for a period of three years to operate the National Communication System (NCS) for Runaway and Homeless Youth Program. The NCS is a dedicated toll-free, US national communication system that provides information, referral services, crisis intervention, prevention approaches, and other supportive services to vulnerable, at-risk, and runaway and homeless youth, and their families or legal guardians. The purpose of the NCS is to a) prevent youth from running away and becoming homeless, b) link youth with a family member or guardian, and/or an available resource that can provide and/or assist the youth in acquiring needed services, and c) increase prevention education to reduce runaway incidents and youth homelessness.​

    How to apply

    1. Confirm your organization meets the eligibility criteria above.
    2. Read the full funding opportunity announcement from Administration for Children & Families - ACYF/FYSB.
    3. Draft your narrative against the funder's stated priorities and review criteria.
    4. Submit before August 19, 2026, allowing time for registration and validation.

    View the official funding announcement

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