ACL is seeking applications from eligible state agencies that will establish, or reestablish, state and local coordinated Lifespan Respite Care systems and deliver respite care and related services to family caregivers of children and adults across all age groups, disabilities, and chronic conditions as defined in the statute. Funds supplement, not replace existing funds. Eligible states applying must fall within one of the following two categories: 1) New States that have not previously received a grant under this program. 2) Returning States who have had at least one (1) Lifespan Respite Care Program grant, but whose programs have gone dormant or lapsed since federal funding ended, and desire to re-establish their core state respite infrastructures, rather than apply for a Program Enhancement grant. ACL will fund approximately four (4) cooperative agreements for the 3-year project period.  

All programs must, from the outset, address the respite needs of all populations regardless of age, disability, or chronic condition of the care recipient population.  Funded applicants shall use grant funds to serve all age groups and disabilities, provide new and emergency care services, recruit and train workers and volunteers, help families access care services and other authorized services as outlined in the Act. It is ACL’s expectation that all grantees will, no later than the second and third years of the grant project period, provide respite services while continuing to build their statewide respite infrastructure.  

Awardees under this funding opportunity will work with ACL to implement the data collection and reporting requirements under Section 2904 of the Lifespan Respite Reauthorization Act of 2020.