515-RDSP Regions Deaf Special Program
Funds Illinois mental health centers to provide culturally affirmative, accessible outpatient services for Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and DeafBlind individuals using specialized staff and technology.
Funder: Illinois Department of Human Services
Due Dates (Anticipated): April 2027 (Full application packet due) | April 2027 (FY27 Internal Control Questionnaire submission)
Funding Amounts: Total program funding ~$306,049; anticipated individual awards range from $31,488 to $159,995 for a 12-month term (historical average ~$76,512).
Summary: Supports culturally affirmative mental health services for Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and DeafBlind individuals in Illinois, delivered by specialized staff.
Key Information: This is a forecasted, non-competitive renewal grant; only current awardees are eligible to apply.
Description
This grant supports community mental health centers in Illinois to provide individualized, culturally affirmative outpatient mental health services for Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and DeafBlind individuals. The program ensures that care is accessible in each person’s preferred language and communication mode, delivered by staff with specialized clinical and cultural-linguistic competencies. Services incorporate accessible technologies (e.g., Video Phones, TTYs, sign language interpreters), adapt evidence-based treatments for cultural relevance, and cover costs for outreach, community networking, and interpreter services. The program aims to address systemic inequities and operationalize inclusivity for all eligible populations.
