2026-27 State Abstinence Until Marriage—Emerging Programs
Funds innovative, non-evidence-based programs teaching abstinence-until-marriage and sexual risk avoidance to South Carolina youth ages 10–19 using new curricula.
Funder: South Carolina Department of Education
Due Dates: August 4, 2026 (Full application deadline) | November 9, 2026 (Q1 expenditure report) | February 9, 2027 (Q2 expenditure report) | May 9, 2027 (Q3 expenditure report) | August 9, 2027 (Q4/final expenditure & program report)
Funding Amounts: Up to $100,000 total; one grant anticipated; project term: July 1, 2026–June 30, 2027.
Summary: Supports new, innovative programs promoting abstinence-until-marriage and sexual risk avoidance education for South Carolina youth ages 10–19.
Key Information: Only non-profit 501(c)(3) organizations using the same curriculum for ≤3 years and not yet evidence-based are eligible.
Description
This grant supports the development and implementation of innovative, emerging programs that promote abstinence-until-marriage and sexual risk avoidance education (SRAE) for youth ages 10–19 in South Carolina. The program is designed for organizations that have not yet achieved evidence-based validation but demonstrate potential to meet abstinence education goals through novel outreach, activities in priority areas, or use of local service organizations. Funded projects must use curricula for no more than three years and comply with Title V, Section 510 definitions of Abstinence Education as defined in the Social Security Act.
