ACL is seeking applications from eligible state agencies that will advance the provision of respite services through their statewide Lifespan Respite Care system as outlined in the Act. Eligible states applying must use funds to enhance respite services through their existing Lifespan Respite Care system and have already received a program enhancement grant and looking to continue to scale and build collaborations and partnerships. Funds supplement, not replace existing funds. The goal of the program is to enhance state systems and capacities to deliver respite care and related services to family caregivers of children and adults across all age groups, disabilities, and chronic conditions.  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 will continue advancing goals that build collaborations and partnerships statewide, expand volunteer options, offer respite provider training, find and reduce service gaps through outreach and engagement, and further meaningful caregiver-focused strategies and authorized services as outlined in the Act. ACL will fund approximately ten (10) cooperative agreements over the course of the 3-year project period.

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.