470 Peer Support Warm Line Program

The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), through its Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery, is offering funding under the 470 Peer Support Warm Line program. This state-funded initiative is designed to expand access to peer-based behavioral health support services across Illinois. IDHS, as a state agency, administers a wide range of human services programs and emphasizes equitable access, recovery-oriented care, and community-based interventions. This funding opportunity aligns with statewide efforts to address behavioral health workforce shortages and improve early intervention services for individuals experiencing emotional distress. The primary purpose of this grant is to establish and operate a statewide, free, confidential, peer-staffed warm line that provides emotional support to individuals in Illinois. The service is intended to function as a preventative and supportive resource, offering empathetic listening and guidance to individuals who may be experiencing distress, loneliness, or challenges related to behavioral health. The program is positioned as an alternative or complement to formal treatment services and is grounded in evidence-based peer support practices. It emphasizes lived experience as a critical qualification for staff and promotes self-directed recovery and wellness. Funding for this program is substantial, with an estimated total allocation of 1200000 dollars and a single anticipated award ranging from 500000 to 1200000 dollars. The grant does not require cost sharing or matching funds. Allowable costs must comply with federal and state cost principles, and indirect costs are permitted if properly documented and approved. However, pre-award costs are not allowable. The funding supports operational activities such as staffing, training, infrastructure for a toll-free line, and development of a statewide resource directory. Subcontracting is allowed but requires prior approval and oversight by the grantee. Eligibility for this opportunity is broad and includes government entities, educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, for-profit organizations, and small businesses. Applicants must meet specific prequalification requirements, including registration in the state’s grant portal, possession of a valid Unique Entity Identifier, and compliance with SAM.gov registration. Entities must also be in good standing with relevant regulatory bodies and not appear on exclusion or sanction lists. While multiple entity types are eligible, priority is given to peer-run organizations where individuals with lived behavioral health experience hold leadership and governance roles. The application process requires submission of a complete application packet via email, including a program narrative, required forms, and a budget submitted through the state’s tracking system. The program narrative must adhere to strict formatting guidelines and address evaluation criteria such as organizational capacity, service quality, data reporting, and governance structure. Applications are evaluated through a merit-based review process, and incomplete submissions are not considered. Questions must be submitted via email by a specified deadline, and responses are posted publicly. Key dates include an application posting date of March 17, 2026, and a submission deadline of April 15, 2026. Awards are anticipated to be announced by July 1, 2026, with a performance period running through June 30, 2027. Successful applicants may be eligible for up to two additional one-year renewals based on performance and funding availability. The program also includes ongoing reporting requirements, evaluation participation, and compliance with administrative standards. This funding opportunity represents a significant investment in peer-led behavioral health services and aims to strengthen the continuum of care across Illinois.

Emphasize peer-run governance structure, demonstrate capacity for statewide operations, align with evidence-based peer support guidelines, and ensure complete compliance with submission requirements