Federal Grant Award Summary

The North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services received a $225,000 formula grant from the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) for the Rehabilitation Services Independent Living Services for Older Individuals Who are Blind (CFDA 84.177) program. The award, effective October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026, supports the delivery of comprehensive independent living services to older North Dakota residents experiencing visual impairments or blindness.

Under this award, the state agency provides targeted services designed to enhance autonomy and community integration for blind or visually impaired seniors, including vocational assessments, career counseling, job training, assistive technology support, and specialized independent living interventions. As the designated state administrator for this federal program, the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services may sub-award portions of this funding to local government entities, non-profit organizations, and community service providers to ensure comprehensive, localized service delivery across the state. The award is made on an annual basis contingent upon an approved state application and satisfactory performance review.