Keep Kids Safe Grant Program

The Connecticut Keep Kids Safe Grant Program is administered by the Connecticut Office of Policy and Management, a state agency responsible for coordinating policy, budgeting, and program oversight across Connecticut government operations. Through this program, the agency seeks to address preventable injuries among children by funding initiatives that promote safety awareness, education, and community-based prevention strategies. The program aligns with statutory authority under Connecticut General Statutes and reflects a statewide commitment to reducing unintentional injuries among individuals under the age of eighteen. The primary purpose of the program is to provide financial support to agencies, institutions, or individuals that can design and implement programs focused on child safety. Funded projects must aim to prevent unintentional injuries and improve public awareness through research, outreach, education, and programmatic interventions. The scope of allowable activities is broad and includes both the creation of new initiatives and the expansion of existing programs. Emphasis is placed on innovative, evidence-based approaches that address documented safety risks within Connecticut communities. Funding may be used for a wide range of program types including bicycle safety campaigns, child passenger safety education, drowning prevention initiatives, fire and burn prevention efforts, and broader public awareness campaigns. Eligible costs may also include the purchase of safety equipment such as helmets, smoke detectors, or flotation devices, as well as educational materials and outreach expenses. Administrative costs are limited to a small percentage of the total budget, ensuring that the majority of funds directly support programmatic activities. All expenditures must comply with state cost standards and must occur after a formal grant contract is executed. Eligibility for the program is inclusive of agencies, institutions, and individuals with demonstrated experience or expertise in preventing unintentional injuries among children. Applicants must show the capacity to implement the proposed project and must adhere to all program requirements, including restrictions on supplanting existing funding sources. The program is competitive, and applications are evaluated based on organizational experience, project design, budget justification, and alignment with program goals. A formal evaluation committee reviews submissions and makes recommendations, but final award decisions rest with the Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management. The application process requires submission of a comprehensive package that includes standardized forms, a project narrative, budget documentation, and certifications. Applications must be submitted electronically via email to the designated agency contact and must follow strict formatting and organizational guidelines. Required components include a cover sheet, confidentiality declaration, application form, detailed project narrative, and supporting documentation such as financial statements and organizational certifications. Only complete and timely submissions are considered for evaluation. The timeline for the funding cycle begins with the release of the request for applications in mid-September, followed by a structured question-and-answer period, and concludes with an application deadline at the end of October. Evaluation and award decisions occur over the following months, with grant awards announced in January and project implementation beginning in late February. The performance period for funded projects spans approximately one year, during which grantees must complete activities and submit required reports. All communications regarding the program must be directed to the designated agency contact, who manages inquiries and ensures compliance with procurement rules. Applicants are required to register with the state procurement system prior to submission and must follow all procedural requirements outlined in the solicitation. The program represents a targeted investment in child safety and reflects a coordinated effort to reduce preventable injuries through education, outreach, and community engagement across the state of Connecticut.

Ensure application is complete signed and submitted on time emphasize demonstrated experience and strong project design aligned with child safety outcomes