Open Call: Residential Services for Unaccompanied Alien Children (United States)

The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) offers a funding opportunity titled “Residential Services for Unaccompanied Alien Children.” This initiative aims to support organizations providing high-quality residential care for unaccompanied children. Applications must be submitted by 29 December 2026. This funding opportunity supports organizations that provide comprehensive care to unaccompanied alien children. The aim is to ensure that children receive safe, nurturing, and licensed care 24/7 in accordance with state requirements. The focus includes residential facility beds and transitional foster care near the U.S. southern border with Mexico. Organizations can receive funding within the range of $2,000,000 to $5,600,000. The funding supports services that include group home, shelter, or transitional foster care facilities for children. There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement for this funding.

Eligible applicants include:

Current recipients in the final year of their project period must ensure their period aligns with the projected award date to continue receiving support. New facilities and locations are required for those not in their final year.

The opportunity prioritizes:

This initiative is crucial for ensuring that unaccompanied children receive the care they need while in the legal custody of the federal government. It supports the resettlement and well-being of vulnerable child populations, particularly in border regions. For technical assistance, contact Yolanda Barnes at UCBgrants@acf.hhs.gov. Eligible organizations should review the official guidelines and prepare their applications according to the detailed requirements. Ensure submission by the specified deadline to be considered for funding.