RFA - Start up and Expansion grants

The Oregon Department of Education (ODE) is seeking grant applications for the Startup and Expansion Grants targeting At-Risk Afterschool and Summer Meal Programs in Marion County. This Request for Grant Applications (RFA) aims to expand access and increase participation in USDA food programs, including the Summer Food Service Program, Child and Adult Care Food Program At-Risk Afterschool Program, and National School Lunch Program Seamless Summer Option. Eligible applicants must be school districts, government agencies, or community groups that provide meals and snacks at at-risk after-school care centers. The primary objective is to support organizations in adding meal types, sites, hot meals, days of operation, and implementing outreach and enrichment activities to increase program participation. Evaluation criteria will focus on the applicant's proposed use of funds, strategy for increasing program participation, and sustainability beyond the grant period. The application deadline is May 20, 2022, with anticipated award notices to be issued in May 2022. The grant performance period is approximately 90 days, running from June 6, 2022 to September 4, 2022.

Eligible organizations must be existing sponsors or have a sponsor application in process with the ODE Child Nutrition Programs. The grant does not appear to have specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises. Applicants can receive up to $20,000 per successful application for the 2021-2023 biennium, with a total program funding pool of approximately $518,000. Allowable expenses include food service equipment and supplies, outreach and enrichment activities, transportation-related purchases, mileage, and labor costs for food service, outreach, and enrichment. Funds cannot be used for food and beverage items, high-risk equipment, vehicle purchases, or to supplant existing staff funding. Organizations seeking labor cost reimbursement must provide detailed position descriptions and timesheets, with reimbursement limited to the first three calendar months. Applicants must create an account with OregonBuys to access amendments and updates to the grant opportunity.