DHS/Division of Behavioral Health & Recovery

Executive Summary The Illinois Peer Support Warm Line (PSWL) program will operate a free, confidential, peer-staffed phone support line for individuals located in Illinois who need emotional support to prevent a potential crisis or to support their wellness between or in lieu of formal treatment services. This program seeks to increase access to peer-based support for Illinoisians as an evidence-based practice and as a mechanism to address gaps in behavioral health service access due to the behavioral health workforce shortage. The PSWL will provide empathetic listening and peer support to individuals who may be experiencing distress or loneliness or those seeking validation from a peer with lived experience who identifies with their concerns and can offer a confidential and non-judgmental space for connection and self-directed exploration of possible solutions and/or alternatives. Funding Purpose The general purpose of this program’s funding is: a. Operate a free, confidential, peer-staffed support line for individuals in need of emotional support. b. Provide supportive early intervention to aid in preventing crises; ongoing peer-based connections to support individuals in their wellness between or in lieu of formal treatment services; and maintain a robust resource directory to assist callers in pursuing their own self-directed recovery. Funding Priorities or Focus Areas IDHS is working to counteract systemic racism and inequity, and to prioritize and maximize diversity throughout its service provision process. This work involves addressing existing institutionalized inequities, aiming to create transformation, and operationalizing equity and racial justice. It also focuses on the creation of a culture of inclusivity for all regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or ability.

NA

Mental Health Community Services Act (405 ILCS 30/ Section (f))

Illinois Administrative Code Part 7000 Grant Accountability and Transparency Act

Program Description The Illinois Peer Support Warm Line (PSWL) program will operate a free, confidential, peer-staffed phone support line for individuals in Illinois who need emotional support to prevent a potential crisis or to support their wellness between or in lieu of formal treatment services. This PSWL program seeks to increase access to the evidence-based practice of peer support as a vital aspect of the overall crisis continuum and a mechanism to address gaps in behavioral health service access due to the behavioral health workforce shortage. Peer support provided through the PSWL will adhere to the core values outlined in the National Practice Guidelines for Peer Specialists and Supervisors (https://www.peersupportworks.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/National-Practice-Guidelines-for-Peer-Specialists-and-Supervisors-1.pdf). The PSWL program will be staffed by individuals with personal lived experience in recovery from behavioral health challenges who have or are able to obtain either the Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) or Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) credential. The PSWL program will provide empathetic listening and non-clinical support to individuals who may be experiencing distress or loneliness or those seeking validation from a peer with personal lived experience who identifies with their concerns and can offer a confidential and non-judgmental space for connection, wellness support, and self-directed exploration of possible solutions and/or alternatives. All aspects of the PSWL program must be in alignment with the service description of Peer-Operated Warmlines in SAMHSA’s Model Definitions for Behavioral Health Emergency, Crisis, and Crisis-Related Services (January 15, 2025) - https://library.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/model-definitions-pep24-01-037.pdf. The Grantee will submit all required financial and performance documentation to the Division of Behavioral Health & Recovery as outlined in III C. Performance Requirements, III D. Performance Measures, III E. Performance Standards, VIII B. Reporting, and VIII A3. Payment Terms. The Grante will also participate in evaluation activities, staffing calls, and technical assistance opportunities as directed by the Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery. Performance Requirements 1. Grantee will employ one FTE program coordinator who is either a Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) or Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) and whose responsibility is to coordinate, oversee, and manage PSWL operations in alignment with Model Definitions for Behavioral Health Emergency, Crisis, and Crisis-Related Services (January 15, 2025). 2. Grantee will establish a statewide toll-free number managed through Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) for callers to access the PSWL. 3. Grantee will operate a phone-based peer support line that is available to callers Monday through Saturday minimally during the hours of 8:00 A.M. – 8:00 P.M. 4. Grantee will employ individuals with self-identified personal experience living with behavioral health challenges who are able to obtain either the Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) or Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) certification within one year of date of hire. 5. Grantee will develop curricula for training PSWL staff whose responsibility is to respond to callers. Training curricula be designed to train staff to leverage their lived experience to offer support to callers in alignment with the National Practice Guidelines for Peer Specialists and Supervisors. 6. Grantee will provide phone-based emotional support designed to empower individuals who call the PSWL to be proactively involved in their own decision making related to choice of services, resources, and supports and to plan for and manage their own personal wellness and recovery. 7. Grantee will develop, update, and maintain a robust directory of resources to assist call-takers in supporting the diverse needs of individuals who call the PSWL. The resource directory must include resources from throughout the state of Illinois. 8. Grantee will develop on-the-job learning opportunities for PSWL staff to obtain the necessary education and work experience to be able to pursue either the Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) or Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) certification through the Illinois Certification Board (ICB, d/b/a IAODAPCA). 9. Grantee will produce a monthly activity report outlining key metrics related to performance of the PSWL including but not limited to the total number of calls; number of unique callers; and type of support provided (e.g., emotional, resources, referrals, linkage to 988, etc.). 10. Grantee will produce an annual report summarizing activities, analysis of efficiency, and recommendations for enhancements and/or modifications. 11. Grantee will establish an advisory board that reviews and offers feedback on the policies, procedures, and operations of the PSWL. The advisory board shall include, at minimum, a. two professionals who have either the CRSS or CPRS and are currently working in the field of peer recovery support; and b. two current or former recipients of peer recovery support. Performance Measures 1. Number of program coordinators hired who have either the Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) or Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) credential. 2. Number of days in reporting period the statewide toll-free number was operational and available to callers. 3. Number of individuals with self-identified personal experience hired to provide peer-based support who are able to obtain either the Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) or Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) certification within one year of date of hire. 4. Number of hours of training curriculum developed for training PSWL staff responsible for responding to callers. 5. Number of individuals provided peer-based support during the reporting period. 6. Number of resources added to the resource directory during the reporting period. 7. Number of advisory board members who have either the CRSS or CPRS and are currently working in the field of peer recovery support. 8. Number of advisory board members who are current or former recipients of peer recovery support. Performance Standards 1. Minimum 1 program coordinator hired who has either the Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) or Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) credential. 2. Minimum of 75 days in reporting period the statewide toll-free number was operational and available to callers. 3. Minimum 12 Full Time Equivalent (FTE) staff with self-identified personal experience employed to provide peer-based support on the PSWL. 4. Minimum 40 clock hours of curriculum developed for training PSWL staff responsible for responding to callers. 5. Minimum 2 advisory board members who have either the CRSS or CPRS and are currently working in the field of peer recovery support. 6. Minimum 2 advisory board members who are current or former recipients of peer recovery support. This standard cannot be met by the same 2 board members reported in Standard #6. Cooperative Agreements Not Applicable.

Yes

(Grantor-Specific Terms) This Notice of State Award (NOSA) is not an agreement nor a guarantee of an agreement. IDHS will publish its agreements in the CSA Tracking System after the NOSA is accepted. A signed hard copy is not needed. You also have the option to decline. If your response(s) to the ICQ questions indicate a weakness in the identified area below, a Corrective Action Plan (CAP) is required to be submitted to your cognizant agency. If IDHS is your Cognizant Agency, please send an email to DHS.DBHR.GrantApp@Illinois.gov to begin communicating the direction and requirements of the CAP. If your score from the Merit Review indicates a weakness in the identified area below, a CAP is required to be submitted to DHS after execution of the grant agreement. Within 30 days of award, please send an email to DHS.DBHR.GrantApp@Illinois.gov to begin communicating the direction and requirements of the CAP. (Program-Specific Terms) The eligibility and program requirements outlined in this funding opportunity must be adhered to as the funded project is implemented. Grantees must comply with the milestones and deliverables, performance standards, performance measures, performance data collection and specific conditions as reflected in the grant agreement, DBHR Attachment B and Program Manual. Additional terms and/or conditions may be applied to this award if outstanding financial or programmatic compliance issues are identified by IDHS.

Government Organizations; Education Organizations; Public Housing Organizations; Nonprofit Organizations; For-Profit Organizations; Small Businesses;

A. The applicant must meet the Registration, Pre-Qualification (https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=149873), and any other Mandatory Requirements listed in this funding opportunity. 1. Applicants must provide the following information via the Grantee Portal (https://grants.illinois.gov/portal) annually to be registered with the State of Illinois as an awardee: a. Organization Name and Contact Information b. Federal Employee Identification Number (FEIN) c. Unique Identity Number (UEI) d. Organization Type 2. Applicants must be prequalified; therefore, applications from entities that have not prequalified prior to the due date of this application will NOT be reviewed and will NOT be considered for funding. Items a) through e) below are the prequalification requirements. a. Unique Entity Identifiers and SAM.gov Registration. Each applicant (unless the applicant is an individual or State awarding agency that is exempt from those requirements under 2 CFR § 25.110(b) or (c), or has an exception approved by the Federal or State awarding agency under 2 CFR § 25.110(d)) is required to: i. Be registered in SAM.gov (https://sam.gov/content/home) before the application due date. ii. Provide a valid unique entity identifier (UEI) (https://www.fsd.gov/gsafsd_sp?id=kb_article_view&sysparm_article=KB0038428&sys_kb_id=3fcba40b1b0a01d40ca4a97ae54bcbd7&spa=1) in its application. iii. Continue to maintain an active SAM.gov registration with current information at all times during which it has an active award or an application or plan under consideration by the awarding agency. iv. The State Agency may not make an award until applicant has fully complied with all UEI and SAM.gov requirements. v. The State Agency may determine that an applicant is not qualified if they have not complied with all requirements and use that determination as a basis to award another applicant or applicants. b. Must be in “good standing” with the Illinois Secretary of State if the Illinois Secretary of State requires the entity’s organization type to be registered. c. Must not be on the Illinois Stop Payment List. d. Must not be on the SAM.gov Exclusion List. e. Must not be on the Medicaid Sanctions List (https://www.illinois.gov/hfs/oig/Pages/SanctionsList.aspx) B. Successful Applicants will not receive an award if pre-award requirements (https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=149875) are not met. Qualified status is re-verified nightly. If the entity’s status changes, an email notice is sent to the designated entity representative with a link to the Grantee Portal (https://grants.illinois.gov/portal) C. Other factors that would disqualify an applicant or application include: 1. Not Applicable. D. Limit on Number of Applications: More than one application per entity is not permitted.

NA

Direct Payments for Specific Use

Human Services

1. Program Coordinator must have either Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) or Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS)

A. Required Content of Application 1. Applications must include the required documents and demonstrate that the program eligibility requirements have been met. The Department will not contact applicants for missing items listed below. Applicants that do not include all the following documents will be considered substantially incomplete and will not be considered for funding. B. Actions needed prior to applying: 1. Applicants must be registered with the State of Illinois and Pre-qualified in the GATA portal prior to applying for Illinois awards. Instructions for creating an account and registering are located at the following link: Illinois GATA Grantee Portal (https://grants.illinois.gov/portal). Additionally, detailed instructions for registration and prequalification requirements, including the expected amount of time for completion are located here: Grant Applicant Pre-Qualification and Pre-Award Requirements (https://www.dhs.state.il.us/OneNetLibrary/27896/documents/Grants/Grant Applicant Pre-Qualification and Pre-Award Requirements_041223.pdf). 2. Registration in CSA is required. The Community Service Agreements (CSA) Tracking System (https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=61069) is the system the IDHS utilizes for approving budgets and issuing grant awards. It is strongly recommended that if an applicant entity is not already registered in the CSA Tracking System, they should begin the registration as soon as possible so they may submit a signed budget in CSA. Successful applicants will NOT be issued an award without a fully approved budget in the CSA Tracking System. 3. Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management (SAM.gov) a. Each Applicant Must: i. Be registered in SAM.gov before submitting its application; ii. Provide a valid Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) in its application; and iii. Continue to maintain an active registration in SAM.gov with current information at all times during which it has an active award or an application or plan under consideration. b. The Department may not make an award until applicant has fully complied to all UEI and SAM.gov Requirements c. The department may determine that an applicant is not qualified if they have not complied to requirements and use that determination as a basis to award to another applicant. d. If individuals are eligible to apply, they are exempt from this requirement under 2 CFR 25.110(b). i. Individuals are not eligible to apply. C. Pre-application materials must be submitted as follows: 1. Not Applicable.

1. Address to Request Application Package A. The complete application package (this Notice of Funding Opportunity, including links to required forms) is available through the Illinois Catalog of State Financial Assistance and the Mental Health Grants – FY 2027 website (https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=176617). B. Each Applicant must have access to the internet. The Department’s website will contain information regarding the NOFO and materials necessary for submission. Questions and answers will also be posted on the Department’s website as described in this announcement (Section I (D) 2). It is the responsibility of each applicant to monitor the website and comply with any instructions or requirements related to the NOFO. 2. Submission Dates and Times A. Full applications are due on 04/15/2026 at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) Central Time. B. Missed Deadlines i. Applications received after the due date and time will not be considered for review or funding. All applicants/applications determined to be non-compliant or otherwise determined to be disqualified from consideration will be separately notified in writing, by email, upon determination. This email will be sent to the email addresses provided in the application and will identify the reason for disqualification. ii. For your records, please keep a copy of your submission with the date and time the application was submitted along with the email address to which it was sent. The deadline will be strictly enforced. iii. IMPORTANT: It is strongly recommended that the applicant not wait until the last minute to submit an application in case they experience technical difficulties with the submission process. Applicants should keep copies of all documentation that that may prove their application was submitted to the correct location and that it was received by IDHS on or before the deadline. Applicants should also maintain all electronic documentation, including screen shots, email correspondence, help desk ticket numbers, etc. that would document any unforeseen difficulties the applicant may have encountered regarding the timely submission of the application. 3. The Methods for submitting the application: Submission Instructions A. The Monthly Invoice IL444-5257 Template must be used for all DBHR programs and submitted no later than 15 days after the end of the month. All invoices shall be HIIPA compliant and encrypted utilizing DHS approved encryption software and emailed to DBHR at the email address listed above. B. Applicants must electronically submit, via email, the complete application packet which includes the following materials as separate pdf documents: i. Uniform Application for State Grant Assistance ii. Project Narrative iii. Grantee Conflict of Interest Disclosure iv. Budget (entered into the CSA Tracking System as described in section (IV)(A)(4) v. Subcontractor Budgets, if applicable B. Applications must be submitted via email to DHS.DBHR.GrantApp@Illinois.gov. The application will be electronically time-stamped upon receipt. Application submissions or delivery to any other email address or contact, including other IDHS offices or employees, will not be considered for review or funding. Applications will not be accepted if received by fax machine, hard copy, disk, or thumb drive. C. Include the following in the subject line: i. Your Entity Name ii. Program 470 D. Documents must NOT include a password. E. Software or Electronic Capabilities i. Each applicant must have access to the internet. The Department's website will contain information regarding the NOFO and materials necessary for submission. Questions and answers will also be posted on the Department's website as described in this announcement. It is the responsibility of each applicant to monitor that website and comply with any instructions or requirements relating to the NOFO. F. Applicants are required to notify the Department within 48 hours of the deadline, if they did not receive an email notifying them that their application was received. If the applicant does not receive an email and does not notify the Department within 48 hours, their application will be considered a late submission and will NOT be reviewed or scored. The applicant will NOT have the right to protest the submission/receipt of their application to the Department after the 48 hours. In the event of a dispute the applicant bears the burden of proof that the application was received on time at the email location listed above (and that the budget was submitted into the CSA Tracking System on time). 4. If you are experiencing system problems or technical difficulties submitting your application, you may contact: A. Name: Barb Roberson B. Email: DHS.DBHR.GrantApp@Illinois.gov 5. Intergovernmental Review A. This funding opportunity is NOT subject to Executive Order 12372, “Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs.” 6. Program Narrative Content and Attachments A. Program Narrative: The program narrative makes up the bulk of the application. Please provide a complete response as specified in Section Criteria Selecting Proposals. If the program narrative is missing from your application packet, your application will receive a score of zero points and your agency will not meet the criteria to receive a grant under this notice of funding opportunity. B. Program Narrative Content and Attachments: If the applicant believes that the subject has been adequately addressed in another part of the application narrative, then provide the cross-reference to the appropriate part of the narrative. If a cross-reference is not included in the section, the reviewer will not consider content contained within that specific section. 7. Budget and Budget Narrative A. Applicants must enter an FY27 budget electronically in the CSA Tracking System. B. Budget must be electronically signed and submitted in the CSA Tracking System. Budget must be signed by the Provider's Chief Executive Officer and/or Chief Financial Officer. C. IMPORTANT: Please be sure budget status in CSA says "GATA Budget signed and submitted to program review." This status will appear after the budget is electronically signed by the agency CEO or CFO and submitted to IDHS. See IDHS CSA Tracking System webpage for additional information on CSA at IDHS: CSA Tracking System (https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=61069). A copy is not to be submitted along with the application packet. D. The budget and narrative must tie fiscal activity to program objectives and deliverables and demonstrate that all proposed costs are: i. Reasonable and necessary ii. Allocable, and iii. Allowable as defined by program regulatory requirements and the Uniform Guidance (2CFR 200), as applicable. E. Deadline for submission of the budget, in the CSA Tracking System, is the same as the application deadline. F. Applicants will NOT be issued an award without the applicant’s fully approved budget in the CSA Tracking System. G. NOTE: The Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology (DoIT) is now disabling external Illinois.gov IDs if they have not been used for 114 days. If you receive the error "HPDIA0309W This account is disabled," your ID has been disabled and cannot be re-activated by changing your password. You need to contact the DoIT HelpDesk at [217-524-DoIT (3648) or 312-814-DoIT (3648)] or their website at Report A Problem (https://doit.illinois.gov/support/rap-step1.html). Request that they create an incident to re-enable your external ID. You will need to provide your external ID (firstname.lastname@external.illinois.gov) and the error message (this account is disabled). Please be sure to Reset Your Password (https://cmsapps.illinois.gov/adimprod/Reset/GatherIdentity.aspx) every 3 months so your account is not disabled. H. There is space when preparing the budget on each line item for the budget narrative. For each line in the budget the applicant will describe why each expenditure is necessary for program implementation and how the amount was determined. Please include cost allocations as necessary. The Budget narrative (including MTDC base exclusions as appropriate) must clearly identify indirect costs, direct program costs, direct administrative costs, and describe how the specified resources and personnel have been allocated for the tasks and activities within each line item. The budget should be prepared to reflect 12 months. I. Subcontractor budget(s), If applicable i. If applicant is planning to use a subcontractor, a copy of the subcontractor budget must be submitted as a separate document with the other application materials. ii. Subcontractor Agreement(s) and budgets must be pre-approved by the DBHR and on file with the DBHR. Subcontractors are subject to all provisions of this Agreement. The successful applicant Agency shall retain sole responsibility for the performance and monitoring of the subcontractor. 8. Required Forms A. Uniform Application for State Grant Assistance: The Uniform Application for State Grant Assistance is a three-page document used to formalize organization's request to apply for funding i. The document requires the electronic or wet(ink) signature and email address of the organization's authorized representative. This email address will be used for official communication between the Department and the applicant organization for matters regarding this application. ii. Page one of the application is pre-populated with the appropriate information. Applicants must not complete anything on Page one. iii. On Page three, applicants will need to include the amount for which they are applying and sign. iv. The correct application must be used. B. Grantee Conflict of Interest Disclosure - The grantee Conflict of Interest Disclosure (https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=142947) is a required for all grant award programs. The document requires agencies to identify actual or potential conflicts of interest. The form must be signed by a representative of the organization. 9. Required Format A. The narrative portion must follow the page maximums where prescribed and must be organized in the format outlined or points may be deducted. B. The department may determine that an applicant is not qualified if they have not complied to requirements and use that determination as a basis to award to another applicant. C. The Program Narrative shall not exceed 10 pages. If there are more than 10 pages, the remaining pages will not be reviewed or scored. D. All documents must be typed using Times New Roman 12-point type, 100% magnification and use black typeface on a white background, Except for letterhead. E. For charts and tables only, Times New Roman 10-point with color may be used. F. The Program Narrative must be typed, single-spaced with 1-inch margins on all sides. G. The submission must be on 8 1/2 x 11-inch page size using pdf. 10. Unallowable Costs A. All applicants will use grant funds according to the guidelines, conditions, and parameters set forth in this funding notice and in compliance with federal statutes, regulations and the terms and conditions of any applicable federal awards. B. Please refer to 2 CFR 200 - Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, PART 200 Subpart E - Cost Principles to determine the appropriateness of costs (https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200?toc=1). C. Allowable costs are those that are necessary and reasonable based on the activity(ies) contained in the scope of work, are justified in the Budget Narrative, and are allowable under Subpart E of 2 CFR 200. It is expected that administrative costs, both direct and indirect, will represent a small portion of the overall program budget. Any budget deemed to include inappropriate or excessive administrative costs will not be approved. Program budgets and narratives must detail how all proposed expenditures are necessary for program implementation. D. Unallowable costs: Please refer to 2 CFR 200 - Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, PART 200 Subpart E - Cost Principles (https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/subtitle-A/chapter-II/part-200?toc=1) to determine the appropriateness of costs. 11. Questions A. IDHS encourages inquiries concerning this funding opportunity and welcomes the opportunity to answer questions from applicants. Questions and IDHS/DBHR Responses “Q&A" (https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item= 78209) will be posted to the website. B. Deadline for Questions April 8, 2026, 12:00 PM (Noon) Central Time and must be sent to: 1. Barb Roberson only to: DHS.DBHR.GrantApp@Illinois.gov C. Questions about this NOFO will ONLY be accepted via email to: DHS.DBHR.GrantApp@Illinois.gov. D. The subject line of the email MUST state: 470 Peer Support Warm Line - Question(s) 12. Mandatory Forms and Submissions A. Uniform Application for State Grant Assistance (https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=178208) B. Program Narrative C. Budget submitted in the CSA Tracking System D. Subcontractor Budget, if applicable submit as a separate attachment E. Grantee Conflict of Interest Disclosure (https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=142947) submit as a separate attachment

1. Responsiveness Review A. Applications that are received will be reviewed within 2 business days to ensure they meet the criteria for consideration. Applications that do not meet the criteria in paragraph B below will be rejected and not entered into the Merit Review process. B. The following are the criteria that must be met for eligibility: i. Applicant has a current registration with the State of Illinois in the Grantee Portal. ii. Applicant has an active Sam.gov public account. iii. Applicant has an active Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) with Sam.gov iv. Applicant is in “good standing” with the Secretary of State. v. Applicant is not on the DHS Stop Payment List Service or the Illinois Stop Payment List. vi. Applicant is not on the Sam.gov Exclusion List. vii. Applicant is not on the Illinois Medicaid Sanctions List. viii. Program specific eligibility restrictions a. Not Applicable. C. Restrictions on eligibility for State awards are referenced in 44 Ill Admin Code 7000.70. Program specific eligibility restrictions are referenced in this Notice of Funding Opportunity. D. All applicants/applications determined to be non-compliant or otherwise determined to be disqualified from consideration will be notified. This email will be sent to the email addresses provided in the application and will identify the reason for disqualification. 2. Review Criteria A. Evaluation criteria is based upon requirements set forth in 44 Ill Admin Code 7000.350 Merit Review of Applications and the IDHS Merit Review Manual. The review criterion and sub-criterion include the following: i. Label each section of the Program Narrative utilizing the format provided below. It must be organized in the format outlined below or points may be deducted. Information must be provided in the section in which it is requested. ii. Please see Section IV(A)(6) as you are preparing the Program Narrative for the required format. The Program Narrative shall not exceed 10 pages. If there are more than 10 pages, the remaining pages will not be reviewed or scored. iii. To be successful in the application process, applicants must submit the following information as part of the grant application process. Please provide a complete response to the following sections: a. Executive Summary – Not Scored Describe the organization’s mission, history and experience in providing peer-based services. b. Need – Point Value 10: Describe the organization’s mission, history and experience in providing emotional support by phone for individuals experiencing a potential crisis or those who are in need of wellness support in between or in lieu of traditional services. c. Capacity/Agency Qualifications - Point Value 10: Explain the organization’s capacity to employ individuals with lived experience in recovery from behavioral health challenges and to operate a phone-based peer support line available to callers Monday through Saturday minimally during the hours of 8:00 A.M. – 8:00 P.M. d. Quality - Description of Program Services - Point Value 10: Provide a detailed description of the organization’s plan to provide evidence-based peer support in adherence to the values outlined in National Practice Guidelines for Peer Specialists and Supervisors, including goals, services, expected outcomes, timeframe/dates, persons responsible. e. Data Collection, Evaluation and Reporting Criteria - - Point Value 10: Describe how your organization will collect, report, and evaluate data for this program, including but not limited to the data points provided in the Program Standards and Measures as outlined in the notice of funding opportunity. f. Grant Specific Criteria – Point Value 10: Describe the organization’s governance structure. In particular, describe how the organization prioritizes inclusion of individuals with lived experience as part of the composition of the organization’s leadership, board members, staff and volunteers. B. All competitive grant applications are subject to merit review. C. Cost sharing will not be considered when evaluating the application. D. IDHS/DBHR staff familiar with the requirements of the program will score and review the application package. E. Review team members will have no conflicts of interest and will read and evaluate application packages independently. F. Applications that fail to meet the criteria described in Section II. Eligibility will not be scored and/or considered for funding. G. Applications must follow the instructions in Section V. Submission Requirements and Details. 3. Review and Selection Process A. The process for evaluation of the application is as follows: i. The numerical score may not be the sole award criterion. ii. The Department reserves the right to consider other factors such as: geographical distribution, demonstrated need, and agency past performance as a state awardee, etc. iii. While the recommendation of the review panel will be a key factor in the funding decision, the Department maintains final authority over funding decisions and considers the findings of the reviewers to be non-binding recommendations. Any internal documentation used in scoring or awarding of grants shall not be considered public information. B. In the event of a tie with insufficient funding for all tied applications, the Department may choose to elect one of the following options: i. Apply one or more of the additional factors for consideration described above to prioritize the applications; or ii. Partially fund each of the tied applications; or iii. Not fund any of the tied applications. C. The Department reserves the right to negotiate with applicants to adjust award amounts, targets, deliverables, etc. These negotiations do not obligate IDHS to provide funding, nor should an applicant draw any conclusions about the Department's intentions to fund or not fund the application. 4. Risk Review A. IDHS conducts risk assessments for all awardees, prior to the award being issued. i. An agency wide FY27 Internal Control Questionnaire (ICQ) is to be completed by the awardee within the Grantee Portal (https://grants.illinois.gov/portal) prior to the deadline listed below. The ICQ evaluates fiscal, administrative, and programmatic risk in the following categories: a. Quality of Management Systems b. Financial and Programmatic Reporting c. Ability to Effectively Implement Award Requirements d. Awardee Audits ii. The deadline to submit the FY27 ICQ is April 22, 2026, 12:00 PM (Noon) Central Time iii. A program specific Programmatic Risk Assessment conducted by the awarding agency to evaluate the following categories: a. Programmatic financial stability b. Management systems and standards that would affect the program. c. Programmatic audit and monitoring findings d. Ability to effectively implement program requirements. e. External partnerships f. Programmatic reporting iv. Risk assessments are not intended to be punitive in nature, rather they are conducted in order to evaluate the support, technical assistance, and training that may be needed for the awardee and the level of monitoring that is needed for the award. a. Risk assessments may result in Specific Conditions being placed on the award to include more frequent monitoring or the implementation of a corrective action plan. B. Simplified Acquisition Threshold - Federal and State awards i. It is anticipated that grants under this award may receive an award over the Simplified Acquisition Threshold (as defined in in 48 CFR part 2, subpart 2.1 (https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-48/chapter-1/subchapter-A/part-2/subpart-2.1; the dollar amount set by the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), currently at $250,000 (with some exceptions)). Potential grantees under this notice of funding opportunity may receive an award in excess $250,000. Therefore, the grantee is subject to the simplified acquisition threshold and related requirements. a. Prior to making an award with a total amount greater than the simplified acquisition threshold, IDHS is required to review and consider any information about the applicant that is in the designated integrity and performance system accessible through SAM.gov. (Currently FAPIIS) (See 41 U.S.C. 2313 (https://www.govinfo.gov/link/uscode/41/2313)). b. That an applicant, at its option, may review information in the designated integrity and performance systems accessible through SAM.gov and comment on any information about itself that a State or Federal awarding agency previously entered and is currently in the designated integrity and performance system accessible through SAM.gov. c. IDHS will consider any comments by the applicant, in addition to the other information in the designated integrity and performance system, in making a judgment about the applicants’ integrity, business ethics, and record of performance under State and Federal awards when completing the review of risk posed by applicants as described in 2 CFR 200.206 (https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-2/section-200.206).

The release of this NOFO does not obligate the Illinois Department of Human Services to make an award. Anticipated Start Date and Periods of Performance for new grant awards A. Subject to appropriation, the grant period will begin no sooner than 07/01/2026 and will continue through 06/30/2027. State Award Notices A. Applicants recommended for funding under this NOFO following the review and selection process will receive a Notice of State Award (NOSA). The NOSA shall include: i. Grant award amount ii. The terms and conditions of the award iii. Specific conditions, if any, assigned to the applicant based on the fiscal and administrative risk assessment (ICQ), programmatic risk assessments (PRA), and the Merit Review. B. Note: The Department cannot issue a NOSA until the successful applicant has an FY27 approved budget entered into the CSA Tracking System. The applicant shall receive the NOSA through the Grantee Portal. The NOSA must be accepted/declined by the grants officer (or equivalent). This NOSA effectively accepts the state award amount and all conditions set forth within the notice. The NOSA is the document authorizing the department to proceed with issuing an agreement. The Agency NOSA must be remitted within the Grantee Portal. C. The NOSA is NOT an authorization to begin performance (to the extent that it allows charging to State awards of pre-award costs; pre-award costs are incurred at the non-State entities own risk unless they have received written prior approval to begin performance). D. The authorizing document to begin performance is the fully executed Uniform Grant Agreement (UGA) signed by the grants officer, or equivalent. This is the official document that obligates funds. The UGA is sent to the non-State entity via the CSA Tracking System. The non-State entity will print and sign the signature page of the UGA and return signature page to DHS.OCA.SignaturePages@illinois.gov. A final signed copy of the UGA will be provided to the non-State entity via an upload into the CSA Tracking system. E. Applicants who are not eligible due to registration or pre-qualification issues, or late applications will be notified that they are ineligible for consideration when their application is processed. F. A written Notice of Denial shall be sent to the applicants not receiving an award following the Merit Review process. Administrative and National Policy Requirements A. The agency awarded funds shall provide services as set forth in the IDHS grant agreement and shall act in accordance with all State and Federal statutes and administrative rules applicable to the provision of the services. B. You can find a sample of the grant agreement at IDHS Uniform Grant Agreement (https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=29741). C. Payment Terms i. Grantees will be paid using the Reimbursement Method. ii. The Monthly Invoice IL444-5257 Template must be used for all DBHR programs and submitted no later than 15 days after the end of the month. All invoices shall be HIIPA compliant and encrypted utilizing DHS approved encryption software and emailed to DBHR at the email address listed above. iii. Invoice and PFR Email Address for General Grants: DHS.DBHR.QuarterlyReports@Illinois.gov iv. Invoice and PFR Email Address for Williams Consent Decree: DHS.DBHR.WilliamsInvoices@Illinois.gov v. Invoice and PFR Email Address for Colbert Consent Decree: DHS.DBHR.ColbertInvoices@Illinois.gov vi. PPR and PRTP Email Address for All Grants: DHS.DBHR.QuarterlyReports@Illinois.gov D. Payment Forms i. Monthly Invoice (IL444-5257) (https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=95429)

The Department must receive the Full Application Packet: Due on April 15, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. (Noon) Central Time

Approximately 60 - 90 days

Merit Review Appeal Process A. Competitive grant appeals are limited to the evaluation process. Evaluation scores may not be protested. Only the evaluation process is subject to appeal and shall be reviewed by IDHS' Appeal Review Officer (ARO). Submission of Appeal A. Appeals submission IDHS contact information: i. Name of Agency contact for appeals: Barb Roberson ii. Email of Agency contact for appeals: DHS.DBHR.GrantApp@Illinois.gov iii. Email Subject Line: Applicant Name - 470 Peer Support Warm Line - Appeal B. An appeal must be submitted in writing to the appeals submission IDHS contact listed above, who will send it to the IDHS Appeal Review Officer (ARO) for consideration. C. An appeal must be received within 14 calendar days after the date that the grant award notice has been published. D. The written appeal shall include at a minimum the following: i. Name and address of the appealing party ii. Identification of the grant iii. Statement of reasons for the appeal iv. Supporting documentation, if applicable Response to Appeal A. IDHS will acknowledge receipt of an appeal within fourteen (14) calendar days from the date the appeal was received. B. IDHS will respond to the appeal within 60 days or supply a written explanation to the appealing party as to why additional time is required. C. The appealing party must supply any additional information requested by IDHS within the time period set in the request. Resolution A. The ARO shall make a recommendation to the Agency Head or designee as expeditiously as possible after receiving all relevant requested information. B. In determining the appropriate recommendation, the ARO shall consider the integrity of the competitive grant process and the impact of the recommendation on the State Agency. C. The Agency will resolve the appeal by means of written determination. D. The determination shall include, but not be limited to: i. Review of the appeal. ii. Appeal determination. iii. Rationale for the determination.

A. Applications for renewals of existing projects are eligible to compete with applications for new State awards. B. Successful applicants under this NOFO may be eligible to receive two subsequent one-year grant renewals for this program. Renewals are at the discretion of the Department and are based on sufficient appropriation and performance criteria including but not limited to: i. Grantee has performed satisfactorily during the previous reporting period. ii. All required reports have been submitted on time, unless a written exception has been provided by the Division/Department. iii. No outstanding issues are present (e.g., in good standing with all pre-qualification requirements and no outstanding corrective action, etc.).

Cost Sharing or Match Requirements A. Providers are not required to participate in cost sharing or provide match

Pre-Award Costs A. Pre-award costs are not allowable. B. IDHS grants are governed by 2 CFR. Part 200, Subpart E-Cost Principles and 30 ILCS 708 which include information on allowable costs, audit requirements, and financial records.

A. Reporting, upon execution, of the grant agreement shall be in accordance with the requirements set forth in the UGA and related exhibits which include but is not limited to the following: 1. Periodic Financial Reports submitted electronically in accordance with instructions in the UGA no more frequent than quarterly and no less frequent than annually, unless unusual circumstances exist. 2. Periodic Programmatic Reports submitted electronically in accordance with instructions in the UGA no more frequent than quarterly and no less frequent than annually, unless unusual circumstances exist. 3. Close-out Performance Reports and Financial Reports as instructed in the UGA. 4. Other Unique Programmatic Reporting Requirements: additional annual performance data may be collected as directed by the Department and in the format prescribed by the Department. 5. If the State share of any State award may include more than $500,000 over the period of performance applicants are also subject to the reporting requirements reflected in Appendix XII to 2 CFR 200. Noncompliance with any of the identified reports may lead to being placed on the Illinois Stop-Payment List. 6. Non-compliance with any of the identified reports may lead to being placed on the Illinois Stop Payment List (SSPL). Grantee shall submit these reports) to the appropriate email address listed below. Reported expenses should be consistent with the approved annual grant budget. Any expenditure variances require prior Grantor approval in accordance with Article VI of the UGA to be reimbursable. • PFR Email Address for General Grants: DHS.DBHR.QuarterlyReports@Illinois.gov • PFR Email Address for Williams Consent Decree: DHS.DBHR.WilliamsInvoices@Illinois.gov • PFR Email Address for Colbert Consent Decree: DHS.DBHR.ColbertInvoices@Illinois.gov • PPR and PRTP Email Address for All Grants: DHS.DBHR.QuarterlyReports@Illinois.gov 7. DBHR reporting templates and detailed instructions for submitting reports can be found in the Provider section of the IDHS website (https://www.dhs.state.il.us/?item=27893).

See JCAR Title 44 Illinois Administrative Code 7000.90 Auditing Standards

See JCAR Title 44 Illinois Administrative Code 7000.430 Record Retention

The source of funding for this program is State funds.

The Department expects to award approximately $1,200,000.

Number of Grant Awards a. The Department anticipates funding approximately 1 grant award to provide this program. Expected Dollar Amount of Individual Grant Awards a. The Department anticipates that the dollar amount of individual awards will be between $500,000 and $1,200,000. Amount of Funding per Grant Award on average in previous years a. Not Applicable

Warmlines are phone, chat, or text lines that provide empathetic listening and peer support to individuals who may be experiencing distress or loneliness or those seeking validation from a peer with lived experience who identifies with their concerns and can offer a confidential and non-judgmental space for connection and self-directed exploration of possible solutions and/or alternatives.

Title 59: Mental Health of the Administrative Code

NA

IL Department of Human Services, Division of Behavioral Health & Recovery

Program Websites • Mental Health Grants – FY2027 https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=176617 • IDHS website: http://www.dhs.state.il.us/ • Community Service Agreements (CSA) Tracking System: https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=61069 • Centralized Repository Vault (CRV): https://vault.dhs.illinois.gov/crvsecure/crv • GATA Learning Management System (LMS): https://gata.illinois.gov/training.html

Programs 400 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (NSPL) Call Center and 401 Suicide Prevention Call Center Enhancement (SPCE) are call center grants, but they’re not for peer support (they’re the 988 suicide and crisis line call center grants)

In the past, the Illinois Warm Line has been funded through a contract with Carelon Behavioral Health as part of the Administrative Services Organization (ASO) contract.

3/17/2026

FY 2027 : $1,200,000