Synopsis

​​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.​
Response Date	Aug 19, 2026 12:00:00 AM EDT
Posting Date	Jul 21, 2026 12:00:00 AM EDT
Archive Date
Award Ceiling	1,800,000
Award Floor	1,000,000
Cost Sharing	Yes

Eligibility

Eligible Applicants

County governments, State governments, Public and State controlled institutions of higher education, Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized), Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education, Public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities, City or township governments, Independent school districts, Native American tribal organizations (other than Federally recognized tribal governments), Others (see text field entitled "Additional Information on Eligibility" for clarification), Private institutions of higher education, Special district governments, Nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education

Additional Info on 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.

Additional Information

Agency Name	Administration for Children & Families - ACYF/FYSB
Link to Additional Information:	N/a
Grantor Contact Information:	If you have difficulty accessing the full announcement electronically, please contact: GrantSolutions Help Desk Phone: 202-690-7110

CFDA Program(s)

• 93.623: Basic Center Grant