The Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) is now accepting concept proposals from agencies and organizations to receive funding for prevention and/or intervention projects that will address family and domestic violence (OGMS Funding Opportunity #566997). The primary purpose of this project is to “move the needle” in addressing domestic violence. Proposed project concepts should make a noticeable or significant impact, difference, or progress toward preventing, addressing, or responding to family and/or domestic violence in Virginia. These efforts should include actions that create real, measurable effects. Domestic violence remains a significant issue impacting many women, men, and children in Virginia. Broadly, domestic violence can be defined as pattern of physically, sexually, and/or emotionally abusive behaviors used by one individual to assert power or maintain control over another in the context of an intimate or family relationship. Domestic violence can have profound effects on families for generations, often perpetuating cycles of abuse and trauma that manifest psychologically and behaviorally. Research has demonstrated that the impact of domestic violence is felt far beyond an isolated incident and often leaves family units, schools, workplaces, and communities in need of support. Additionally, domestic violence is one of the leading causes of homelessness for children in the United States. According to the Domestic and Sexual Violence in Virginia 2025 Annual Report, out of every 100 survivors: 54 reported lost income or financial instability and 47 reported that they had to relocate or become homeless as a result of their victimization. According to the same 2025 Annual Report, a total of 68,641 contacts were made by the Virginia Statewide Sexual and Domestic Violence Hotline in 2024.
Through collaborative efforts, direct service providers meet identified needs with public education and prevention, crisis intervention, community engagement, legal assistance, community- and court-based advocacy, psychoeducation, therapy, counseling, shelter, and emergency assistance to those impacted by domestic violence. Even with these listed services available, programs that offer services to victims of family/domestic violence report that safe and affordable housing, transportation, affordable legal representation, childcare, culturally appropriate services, and insufficient language capacity remain primary barriers to receiving services. In noting the identified needs of victims and survivors, applicants are also encouraged to apply to support evidence-informed intervention programming designed for individuals who perpetrate violence against others. Through individual service provision, providers often identify community, relationship, or societal risks and protective factors that affect engagement with and effectiveness of services. By addressing these factors, programs have an opportunity to review how types of violence are interconnected.
Awards under this competitive solicitation will be made for up to a twenty-four (24) month project period and must align with one of the priority focus areas identified in the guidelines. Based on funding availability, program performance, and compliance with grant requirements, continuation funding may be available.
An optional, virtual information session for potential applicants is available on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. To attend, register in advance here: https://www.zoomgov.com/meeting/register/RkH9X-BdRCG-xFMcKWrR-w.
Application Deadlines:
Concept Proposal: July 20, 2026, 12:00 noon
Final Application: September 21, 2026, 12:00 noon
To access/register in the On-line Grants Management System (OGMS) click here https://ogms.dcjs.virginia.gov/.
Technical Assistance:
For OGMS questions and technical assistance, contact ogmssupport@dcjs.virginia.gov.
For application assistance, contact: VictimsServicesTA@dcjs.virginia.gov
Inquiries will be directed to the appropriate subject matter expert:
Aria Chipley - Aria.Chipley@dcjs.virginia.gov - Projects Related to Serving Victims
Jenna Foster - Jenna.Foster@dcjs.virginia.gov - Projects Related to Children/Youth
Tisha Skinner - Tisha.Skinner@dcjs.virginia.gov - Projects Related to Serving Those Who Harm Others
| CY 27-28 Concept Proposal and Grant Application Guidelines and Procedures (541.67 KB) |