SSBG Program Offers Flexibilities In Response to Hurricanes
As we approach Labor Day, it should be noted that a dangerous time of the year – hurricane season – is reaching is apex. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts up to seven major hurricanes during this Atlantic hurricane season. Taking preparations now can go a long way to mitigating problems following the devastation of a huge storm.
Therefore, the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) within the Department of Health and Human Services, has issued a “Dear Colleague” letter to Social Services Block Grant (SSBG) recipients to remind them about certain program flexibilities related to disaster recovery efforts that are consistent with the purpose and allowable uses of SSBG funding to support hurricane preparedness and response.
The letter informs recipients that SSBG funding may be used to assist SSBG states and territories with emergency assistance, giving them broad discretion in the specific services supported with SSBG funds and tailor the use of these funds over time to best meet the needs of their populations. Recipients can use such funds to reduce dependency and promote self-sufficiency; protect children and adults from neglect, abuse and exploitation; and help individuals who are unable to take care of themselves to stay in their homes or to find the best institutional arrangements, if necessary.
Allowable uses of SSBG funds to deal with crisis situations, particularly concerning assistance for social service-related needs resulting from a natural disaster, includes any costs that align with the five SSBG goals. Unallowable uses of SSBG funds that are not social services-related unless otherwise deemed applicable by Congress during a natural disaster, are: (1) purchase or improvement of land; (2) cash payments; (3) payments of wages; (4) construction; (5) major capital improvements; and (6) most medical care.
Grant recipients may update their intended use plans (IUPs) throughout the federal fiscal year to address unexpected needs, including those that arise from hurricanes and other natural disasters. Grant recipients must submit a written IUP amendment letter to ACF’s Office of Community Services (OCS) to gain prior approval.
OCS’ Disaster Flexibilities Hub visually tracks and displays key data, guidance and resources on declared disasters, disaster preparedness efforts and the flexibilities built into OCS’ block grant programs (including SSBG) to address disasters. ACF strongly encourages SSBG grant recipients to visit the OCS Disaster Flexibilities Hub .
OCS has SSBG program specialists available to assist states and territories with technical assistance or questions regarding flexibilities. The agency urges SSBG recipients that encounter other barriers responding to individuals and families with low incomes to reach out to their assigned SSBG program specialist for consultation. Knowing that these flexibilities and assistance are available may help ease some of the fears that always emerge before and after the impact of a hurricane.
Join us for our following Thompson Grants events:
Federal Grants Forum State and Local Governments | Sept. 10-11, 2024 | Virtual Event
Nonprofit Legal, Finance, & Grants Conference | Oct. 1-2, 2024 | Arlington, Va.
