[Federal Register Volume 66, Number 73 (Monday, April 16, 2001)]
[Notices]
[Pages 19539-19558]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 01-9346]


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DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

Office of the Assistant Secretary for Veterans' Employment and 
Training


Homeless Veterans' Reintegration Project Competitive Grants for 
FY 2001

AGENCY: Office of the Assistant Secretary for Veterans' Employment and 
Training, Labor.

ACTION: Notice of availability of funds and solicitation for grant 
applications (SGA) for Homeless Veterans Reintegration Projects (SGA 
01-02).

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SUMMARY: This notice contains all of the necessary information and 
forms needed to apply for grant funding. All applicants for grant funds 
should read this notice in its entirety. The U.S. Department of Labor, 
Veterans' Employment and Training Service, (VETS) announces a grant 
competition for Homeless Veterans Reintegration Projects (HVRP) 
authorized under the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act. Such 
projects will assist eligible veterans who are homeless by providing 
employment and training, supportive, and transitional housing 
assistance. Under this solicitation, VETS may award up to thirty grants 
in Fiscal Year (FY) 2001. This notice describes the background, the 
application process, description of program activities, evaluation 
criteria, and reporting requirements for Solicitation of Grant 
Applications (SGA) 01-02. VETS anticipates that up to $6.66 million 
will be available for grant awards under this SGA.
    The information and forms contained in the Supplementary 
Information Section of this announcement constitute the official 
application package for this Solicitation. To receive any amendments to 
this Solicitation (Please reference SGA 01-02), which may be 
subsequently issued, all applicants must register their name and 
address with the Grant Officer at the following address: U. S. 
Department of Labor, Procurement Services Center, Room N-5416, 200 
Constitution Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20210.

DATES: Applications and proposals are to be submitted, including those 
hand-delivered, to the address below by no later than 4:45 p.m., 
Eastern Time, May 16, 2001, or be postmarked or date stamped by the 
U.S. Postal Service on or before that date.

ADDRESSES: Applications will be mailed or hand delivered to the U.S. 
Department of Labor, Procurement Services Center, Attention: Cassandra 
Willis, Reference SGA 01-02, Room N-5416, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW., 
Washington, DC 20210.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Cassandra Willis, U.S. Department of 
Labor, Procurement Services Center, telephone (202) 219-6445 [not a 
toll free number].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION

Homeless Veterans Reintegration Project Solicitation

I. Purpose

    The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), Veterans' Employment and 
Training Service, (VETS) is requesting grant applications for the 
provision of employment and training services in accordance with the 
Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act (MHAA), now called the 
McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, as reauthorized and codified at 
Chapter 41 of 38 U.S.C. Section 4111. These instructions contain 
general program information, requirements, and forms for application 
for funds to operate a Homeless Veterans Reintegration Project (HVRP).

II. Background

    The Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act of 1987, enacted on 
July 22, 1987, under Title VII, Subtitle C, Section 738(a) provides 
that ``The Secretary * * * shall conduct, directly or through grant or 
contract, such programs as the Secretary determines appropriate to 
expedite the reintegration of homeless veterans into the labor force.''
    This program was reauthorized under Section 621 of the McKinney 
Homeless Assistance Amendments Act of 1990 (Public Law 101-645) for an 
additional three years, i.e., through FY 1993. Under the Homeless 
Veterans Comprehensive Service Programs Act of 1992 (Public Law 102-
590--enacted on November 10, 1992), the Homeless Veterans Reintegration 
Project was reauthorized through Fiscal Year 1995. However, the program 
was rescinded in FY 1995. Public Law 104-275, dated October 9, 1996, 
was amended to reauthorize the program through FY 1998. Public Laws 
105-41 and 105-114, enacted in 1997, extend the program through FY 
1999. Public Law 106-73, dated October 19, 1999, reauthorized and 
codified at Title

[[Page 19540]]

38, Chapter 41, Section 4111, extends the program through FY 2003.
    The Homeless Veterans Reintegration Project was the first 
nationwide Federal program that focused on placing homeless veterans 
into jobs. In accordance with the MHAA, the Assistant Secretary for 
Veterans' Employment and Training (ASVET) is making approximately $6.66 
million of the funds available to award grants for HVRPs in selected 
cities in FY 2001 under this competition. Both types of projects, urban 
and rural, in the past have provided valuable information on approaches 
that work in the different environments.

III. Application Process

A. Potential Jurisdictions to be Served
    Due to the demonstration nature of the Act, the amount of funds 
available, and the emphasis on establishing or strengthening existing 
linkages with other recipients of funds under the MHAA, the only 
potential jurisdictions which will be served through this urban 
competition for HVRPs in FY 2001 are the metropolitan areas of the 75 
U.S. cities largest in population and the city of San Juan, Puerto 
Rico. All potential HVRP jurisdictions are listed in Appendix E.
B. Eligible Applicants
    Applications for funds will be accepted from State and local public 
agencies, and nonprofit organizations, including Faith based 
organizations follow:
    1. Workforce Investment Boards (WIBS) as defined in the Workforce 
Investment Act, Pub. L. 105-220, are eligible applicants, as well as 
State and local public agencies. ``Local public agency'' refers to any 
public agency of a general purpose political subdivision of a State 
which has the power to levy taxes and spend funds, as well as general 
corporate and police powers. (This typically refers to cities and 
counties). A State agency may propose in its application to serve one 
or more of the potential jurisdictions located in its State. This does 
not preclude a city or county agency from submitting an application to 
serve its own jurisdiction.
    Applicants are encouraged to utilize, through sub grants, 
experienced public agencies, private nonprofit organizations, and 
private businesses which have an understanding of unemployment and the 
barriers to employment unique to homeless veterans, a familiarity with 
the area to be served, and the capability to effectively provide the 
necessary services.
    2. Also eligible to apply are nonprofit organizations that have 
operated an HVRP or similar employment and training program for the 
homeless or veterans; have proven capacity to manage Federal grants; 
and have or will provide the necessary linkages with other service 
providers. Nonprofit organizations will be required to submit with 
their application, a recent (within one year) financial audit 
statements that attest to the financial responsibility and integrity of 
the organization. Entities described in Section 501(c)4 of the Internal 
Revenue Code that engage in lobbying activities are not eligible to 
receive funds under this announcement. The Lobbying Disclosure Act of 
1995, Public Law No. 104-65, 109 Stat. 691, prohibits the award of 
Federal funds to these entities if they engage in lobbying activities.
C. Funding Levels
    The total amount of funds available for this solicitation is $6.6 
million. It is anticipated that up to 30 awards may be made under this 
solicitation. Awards are expected to range from $200,000 to $250,000. 
The Federal government reserves the right to negotiate the amounts to 
be awarded under this competition. Please be advised that requests 
exceeding this range by 15% or more may be considered non-responsive.
D. Period of Performance
    The period of performance will be for twelve (12) months from date 
of award. It is expected that successful applicants will commence 
program operations under this solicitation by July 1, 2001.
E. Second-Year Option
    As stated in Section II of this Part, the Homeless Veterans 
Reintegration Project was reauthorized and codified by statute at 38 
U.S.C. Section 4111. Should there be action by Congress to appropriate 
funds for this purpose, a second-year option may be considered. The 
Government does not, however, guarantee second year funding for any 
awardee. Should VETS decide that an option year for funding be 
exercised, the grantees' performance during the first period of 
operations will be taken into consideration as follows:
    1. By the end of the third quarter, the grantee must achieve at 
least 75% of the twelve month total goals for Federal expenditures, 
enrollments, and placements, or
    2. The grantee must meet 85% of goals for Federal expenditures, 
enrollments, and placements for the twelve month period if planned 
activity is NOT evenly distributed in each quarter; and
    3. The Grantee is in compliance with all terms identified in the 
solicitation for grant applications.
    All instructions for modifications and announcement of fund 
availability will be issued at a later date. Please note that the 
Government does reserve the right to compete any subsequent funds 
appropriated for this purpose in lieu of an option year.
F. Submission of Proposal
    A cover letter, an original and two (2) copies of the proposal will 
be submitted to the U.S. Department of Labor, Procurement Service 
Office, Room N-5416, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 
20210. The proposal will consist of two (2) separate and distinct 
parts: One (1) blue ink-signed original SF 424, complete grant 
application, plus two (2) copies of the Technical Proposal, and two (2) 
copies of the Cost Proposal.
G. Late Proposals
    The grant application package must be received at the designated 
place by the date and time specified or it will not be considered. Any 
application received at the Office of Procurement Services after 4:45 
p.m. ET, May 16, 2001, will not be considered unless it is received 
before the award is made and:
    1. It was sent by registered or certified mail not later than the 
fifth calendar day before May 16, 2001;
    2. It is determined by the Government that the late receipt was due 
solely to mishandling by the Government after receipt at the U.S. 
Department of Labor at the address indicated; or
    3. It was sent by U.S. Postal Service Express Mail Next Day 
Service-Post Office to Addressee, not later than 5:00 p.m. at the place 
of mailing two (2) working days, excluding weekends and Federal 
holidays, prior to May 16, 2001.
    The only acceptable evidence to establish the date of mailing of a 
late application sent by registered or certified mail is the U.S. 
Postal Service postmark on the envelope or wrapper and on the original 
receipt from the U.S. Postal Service. If the postmark is not legible, 
an application received after the above closing time and date shall be 
processed as if mailed late. ``Postmark'' means a printed, stamped or 
otherwise placed impression (not a postage meter machine impression) 
that is readily identifiable without further action as having been 
applied and affixed by an employee of the U.S. Postal Service on the 
date of mailing. Therefore applicants should request that the postal 
clerk place a legible hand cancellation

[[Page 19541]]

``bull's-eye'' postmark on both the receipt and the envelope or 
wrapper.
    The only acceptable evidence to establish the date of mailing of a 
late application sent by U.S. Postal Service Express Mail Next Day 
Service-Post Office to Addressee is the date entered by the Post Office 
receiving clerk on the ``Express Mail Next Day Service-Post Office to 
Addressee'' label and the postmark on the envelope or wrapper and on 
the original receipt from the U.S. Postal Service. ``Postmark'' has the 
same meaning as defined above. Therefore, applicants should request 
that the postal clerk place a legible hand cancellation ``bull's-eye'' 
postmark on both the receipt and the envelope or wrapper.
    The only acceptable evidence to establish the time of receipt at 
the U.S. Department of Labor is the date/time stamp of the Procurement 
Services Center on the application wrapper or other documentary 
evidence or receipt maintained by that office. Applications sent by 
telegram or facsimile (FAX) will not be accepted.
H. Proposal Content
    A cover letter, an original, and two (2) copies of the proposal 
must be submitted. The applicant must complete the forms provided (i.e. 
quarterly goals chart). The proposal will consist of two (2) separate 
and distinct parts:
    Part I--Technical Proposal must consist of a narrative proposal 
that demonstrates the applicant's knowledge of the need for this 
particular grant program, its understanding of the services and 
activities proposed to alleviate the need and its capabilities to 
accomplish the expected outcomes of the proposed project design. The 
technical proposal must consist of a narrative not to exceed fifteen 
(15) pages double-spaced, font size no less than 11pt. and typewritten 
on one side of the paper only. The applicant must complete the forms 
provided (i.e. quarterly goals chart). Charts, and exhibits, letters of 
support and letters of reference are not counted against the page 
limit. The following format is strongly recommended:
    1. Need for the project: the applicant must identify the 
geographical area to be served and provide an estimate of the number of 
homeless veterans and their needs, poverty and unemployment rates in 
the area, the gaps in the local community infrastructure that 
contribute to the employment and other barriers faced by the targeted 
veterans, and how the project would respond to these needs. Include the 
outlook for job opportunities in the service area.
    2. Approach or strategy to increase employment and job retention: 
Applicants should be responsive to the Rating Criteria contained in 
Section VI and address all of the rating factors noted as thoroughly as 
possible in the narrative. The applicant must: (1) Provide the length 
of training, the training curriculum and how the training will enhance 
the eligible veterans employment opportunities within that geographical 
area; (2) describe the specific supportive, employment and training 
services to be provided under this grant and the sequence or flow of 
such services--flow charts may be provided; (3) provide a plan for 
follow up addressing retention after 90 and 180 days with participants 
who entered employment. (See discussion on results in Section VI. D.); 
and (4) include the required chart of proposed performance goals and 
planned expenditures listed in Appendix D.
    3. Linkages with other providers of employment and training 
services to the homeless and to veterans: Describe the linkages this 
program will have with other providers of services to veterans and to 
the homeless outside of the HVRP grant. Include a description of the 
relationship with other employment and training programs such as 
Disabled Veterans' Outreach Program (DVOP), the Local Veterans' 
Employment Representative (LVER) program, and programs under the 
Workforce Investment Act. List the type of services provided by each. 
Note the type of agreement and provide copies of the agreement(s) in 
place if applicable. Linkages with the workforce development system 
[inclusive of State Employment Security Agencies (SESA's)] should be 
delineated. Describe any linkages with resources and other programs for 
veterans. Describe any program and resource linkages with Department of 
Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Department of Health and Human 
Services (HHS), and Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) for the 
homeless. Indicate how the applicant will coordinate with any 
``continuum of care'' efforts for the homeless among agencies in the 
community.
    4. Proposed supportive service strategy for veterans: Describe how 
supportive service resources for veterans will be obtained and used. If 
resources are provided by other sources or linkages, such as Federal, 
State, local or community based programs, the applicant needs to fully 
explain the use of these resources and why they are necessary.
    5. Organizational capability in providing required program 
activities: The applicant's relevant current or prior experience, to 
include program recidivism rate in operating employment and training 
programs should be delineated. Provide information denoting outcomes of 
past programs in terms of enrollments and placements. Applicants who 
have operated an HVRP program or Homeless Veterans Employment and 
Training (HVET) program should include final or most recent technical 
performance reports. (This information is also subject to verification 
by the Veterans' Employment and Training Service.) Provide evidence of 
key staff capability. Non-profit organizations must submit evidence of 
satisfactory financial management capability including recent financial 
and/or audit statements.
    6. Proposed housing strategy for homeless veterans: Describe how 
housing resources for homeless veterans will be obtained or accessed. 
These resources may be from linkages or sources other than the HVRP 
grant such as HUD, HHS, community housing resources, DVA leasing, or 
other programs. The applicant must explain whether HVRP resources will 
be used and why this is necessary. Nonprofit organizations, including 
faith based organizations must submit evidence of satisfactory 
financial management capability, which will include recent financial 
and/or audit statements.
    (For consideration by panel members, this information is subject to 
verification by the Government--Veterans' Employment and Training 
Service reserves the right to have a representative within your state 
provide programmatic and fiscal information about applicants and 
forward those findings to National Office during the review of the 
applications).

    Note: Resumes, charts, and standard forms, transmittal letters, 
letters of support are not included in the page count. [If provided 
include these documents as attachments to the technical proposal.]

    Part II--Cost Proposal will contain: (1) The Standard Form (SF) 
424, ``Application for Federal Assistance'', (2) the Standard Form (SF) 
424A ``Budget Information Sheet'' in Appendix B, if resources/matching 
funds and/or the value of in-kind contributions are made available 
please show in Section B of the Budget Information Sheet; (3) a 
detailed costs break out of each line item on the Budget Information 
Sheet. Please label this page or pages the ``Budget Narrative'' and 
ensure that costs reported on the SF424A coordinate accurately with the 
Budget Narrative. In addition to the cost proposal the applicants must 
include the Assurance and Certification signature page,

[[Page 19542]]

Appendix C. Copies of all required forms with instructions for 
completion are provided as appendices to this solicitation.
    The Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance number for this program 
is 17.805, which should be entered on the SF 424, Block 10.

IV. Budget Narrative Information

    As an attachment to the Budget Information Sheet, the applicant 
must provide at a minimum, and on separate sheet(s), the following 
information:
    (a) A breakout of all personnel costs by position, title, salary 
rates, and percent of time of each position to be devoted to the 
proposed project (including subgrantees);
    (b) An explanation and breakout of extraordinary fringe benefit 
rates and associated charges (i.e., rates exceeding 35% of salaries and 
wages);
    (c) An explanation of the purpose and composition of, and method 
used to derive the costs of each of the following: travel, equipment, 
supplies, subgrants/ contracts, and any other costs. The applicant must 
include costs of any required travel described in this Solicitation. 
Mileage charges will not exceed 34.5 cents per mile;
    (d) In order that the Department of Labor meet legislative 
requirements, submit a plan along with all costs associated with 
retaining participant information pertinent to a longitudinal follow up 
survey for at least six (6) months after the ninety day (90) closeout 
period;
    (e) Description/specification of and justification for equipment 
purchases, if any. Tangible, non-expendable, personal property having a 
useful life of more than one year and a unit acquisition cost of $5,000 
or more per unit must be specifically identified; and (f) 
Identification of all sources of leveraged or matching funds and an 
explanation of the derivation of the value of matching/in-kind 
Services.

V. Participant Eligibility

    To be eligible for participation under HVRP, an individual must be 
homeless and a veteran defined as follows:
    A. The term ``homeless or homeless individual'' includes persons 
who 1ack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. It also 
includes persons whose primary nighttime residence is either a 
supervised public or private shelter designed to provide temporary 
living accommodations; an institution that provides a temporary 
residence for individuals intended to be institutionalized; or a 
private place not designed for, or ordinarily used as, a regular 
sleeping accommodation for human beings. (Reference 42 U.S.C. section 
11302 (a)).
    B. The term ``veteran'' means a person who served in the active 
military, naval, or air service, and who was discharged or released 
therefrom under conditions other than dishonorable. [Reference 38 
U.S.C. Section 101(2)]

VI. Project Summary

A. Program Concept and Emphasis
    The HVRP grants under Section 738 of the Stewart B. McKinney 
Homeless Assistance Act are intended to address dual objectives:
    (1) To provide services to assist in reintegrating homeless 
veterans into meaningful employment within the labor force; and (2) to 
stimulate the development of effective service delivery systems that 
will address the complex problems facing homeless veterans.
    These programs are designed to be flexible in addressing the 
universal as well as local or regional problems barring homeless 
veterans from the workforce. The program in FY 2001 will continue to 
strengthen the provision of comprehensive services through a case 
management approach, the attainment of housing resources for veterans 
entering the labor force, and strategies for employment and retention.
B. Required Features
    1. The proposal should include an outreach component. It is 
recommended that the applicants coordinate these activities through 
veteran service providers who have experience working and serving the 
veteran population. This requirement can be modified to allow the 
project to utilize veterans in other positions where there is direct 
client contact if extensive outreach is not needed, such as intake, 
counseling, peer coaching, and follow up. This requirement applies to 
projects funded under this solicitation.
    2. Projects will be required to show linkages with other programs 
and services which provide support to homeless veterans. Coordination 
with the Disabled Veterans' Outreach Program (DVOP) Specialists and 
Local Veterans' Employment Representative (LVER) in the jurisdiction is 
required.
    3. Projects will be ``employment focused''. The services provided 
will be directed toward increasing the employability of homeless 
veterans through training or arranging for the provision of services 
which will enable them to work; and (b) matching homeless veterans with 
potential employers.
C. Scope of Program Design
    The project design must provide or arrange for the following 
services:

--Outreach, intake, assessment, counseling to the degree practical and 
employment services. Outreach must be provided at shelters, day 
centers, soup kitchens, VA medical centers, and other programs for the 
homeless. Program staff providing outreach services are to be veterans 
who have experienced homelessness.

    Coordination with veterans' services programs and organizations 
such as:

--Disabled Veterans' Outreach Program (DVOP) Specialists, Local 
Veterans' Employment Representatives (LVERs) in the State Employment 
Security/Job Service Agencies (SESAs) or in the newly instituted 
workforce development system's One-Stop Centers, and VWIP--Veterans' 
Workforce Investment Programs;
--Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) services, including its Health 
Care for Homeless Veterans, Domiciliary, and other programs, including 
those offering transitional housing; and
--Veteran service organizations such as The American Legion, Disabled 
American Veterans, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Vietnam Veterans 
of America, and the American Veterans (AMVETS);

    Referral to necessary treatment services, rehabilitative services, 
and counseling including, but not limited to:

--Alcohol and drug;
--Medical;
--Post Traumatic Stress Disorder;
--Mental Health;
--Coordinating with MHAA Title VI programs for health care for the 
homeless;

    Referral to housing assistance provided by:

--Local shelters;
--Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) food and shelter 
programs;
--Transitional housing programs and single room occupancy housing 
programs funded under MHAA Title IV;
--Permanent housing programs for the handicapped homeless funded under 
MHAA Title IV;
--Department of Veterans Affairs programs that provide for leasing or 
sale of acquired homes to homeless providers; and
--Transitional housing leased by HVRP funds (HVRP funds cannot be used 
to purchase housing or vehicles)

    Employment and training services such as:
--Basic skills instruction;

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--Basic literacy instruction;
--Remedial education activities;
--Job search activities;
--Job counseling;
--Job preparatory training, including resume writing and interviewing 
skills;
--Subsidized trial employment (Work Experience);
--On-the-Job Training;
--Classroom Training;
--Job placement in unsubsidized employment;
--Placement follow up services; and
--Services provided under WIA Program Titles
D. Results-Oriented Model
    Based on past experience of grantees working with this target 
group, a workable program model evolved which is presented for 
consideration by prospective applicants. No model is mandatory. The 
applicant should design a program that is responsive to local needs, 
but will carry out the objectives of the homeless veteran to 
successfully reintegrate them into the workforce.
    With the advent of implementing the Government Performance and 
Results Act (GPRA), Congress and the public are looking for program 
results rather than program processes. While entering employment is a 
viable outcome, it will be necessary to measure results over a longer 
term to determine the success of programs. In order to do this, the 
following program discussion must be considered. Without a sound 
program foundation, the results of program are in question, which 
places the program success in jeopardy.
    The first phase of activity consists of the level of outreach that 
is necessary to reach homeless veterans. This may also include 
establishing contact with other agencies that encounter homeless 
veterans such as shelters, soup kitchens, and other facilities. Once 
the eligible clients have been identified, an assessment should be made 
of their abilities or interests and needs. In some cases these clients 
may require referrals to services, such as social rehabilitation, drug 
or alcohol treatment, or a temporary shelter, before they can be 
enrolled into core training. When the individual is stabilized, the 
assessment should focus on the employability of the individual and 
their enrollment into the program. A determination should be made as to 
whether if they would benefit from pre-employment preparation such as 
resume writing, job search workshops, related counseling and case 
management, and initial entry into the job market through temporary 
jobs, sheltered work environments, or entry into classroom or on-the-
job training. Such services should also be noted in an Employability 
Development Plan so that successful completion of the plan may be 
monitored by the staff.
    Entry into full-time employment or a specific job training program 
should follow in keeping with the objective of HVRP to bring the 
participant closer to self-sufficiency. Supportive services or 
transitional housing may assist the participant at this stage or even 
earlier. Job development is a crucial part of the employability 
process. Wherever possible, DVOP and LVER staff must be utilized for 
job development and placement activities for veterans who are ready to 
enter employment or who are in need of intensive case management 
services. Many of these staff members have received training in case 
management at the National Veterans' Training Institute and have a 
priority of focus, assisting those most at a disadvantage in the labor 
market. VETS urges working hand-in-hand with DVOP/LVER staff to achieve 
economies of resources. If the DVOP and LVER staff are not being 
utilized, the applicant must submit a written explanation detailing the 
reasons why they are not.
    The following program discussion emphasizes that follow up is an 
integral program component.
    Follow up to determine whether the veteran is in the same or 
similar job at the 90 and 180 day period after entering employment is 
required. It is important that the grantee maintain contact with the 
veterans after placement to assure that employment related problems are 
addressed. The 90 and 180 day follow up is fundamental to assessing the 
results of the program success. Grantees should be careful to budget 
for this activity so that followup can and will occur for those placed 
at or near the end of the grant period. Such results will be reported 
in the final technical performance report.
    Retention of records will be reflected in the Special Grant 
Provisions to be provided at the time of any award.

VII. Related HVRP Program Development Activities

Community Awareness Activities
    In order to promote linkages between the program and local service 
providers (and thereby eliminate gaps or duplication in services and 
enhance provision of assistance to participants), the grantee must 
provide project orientation and/or service awareness activities that it 
determines are the most feasible for the types of providers listed 
below. Project orientation workshops conducted by grantees have been an 
effective means of sharing information and revealing the availability 
of other services; they are encouraged but not mandatory. Rather, the 
grantee will have the flexibility to attend service provider meetings, 
seminars, conferences, outstation staff, develop individual service 
contracts, and involve other agencies in program planning. This list is 
not exhaustive. The grantee will be responsible for providing 
appropriate awareness, information sharing, and orientation activities 
to the following:
    a. Providers of hands-on services to the homeless veteran, such as 
shelter and soup-kitchen operators, to make them fully aware of 
services available to homeless veterans to make them job-ready and 
place them in jobs.
    b. Federal, State and local entitlement services such as the Social 
Security Administration (SSA), Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA), 
State Employment Security Agencies (SESAs) and their local Job Service 
offices, One-Stop Centers (which integrate WIA, labor exchange, and 
other employment and social services), detoxification facilities, etc., 
to familiarize them with the nature and needs of homeless veterans.
    c. Civic and private sector groups, and especially veterans' 
service organizations, to describe homeless veterans and their needs.
    d. Stand Down Support--A ``Stand Down'' as it relates to homeless 
veterans is an event held in a locality usually for three days where 
services are provided to homeless veterans along with shelter, meals, 
clothing, and medical attention. This type of event is mostly volunteer 
effort, which is organized within a community and brings service 
providers together such as the DVA, Disabled Veterans Outreach Program 
Specialists, Local Veterans' Employment Representatives from the State 
Employment Service Agencies, veteran service organization, military 
personnel, civic leaders, and a variety of other interested persons and 
organizations. Many services are provided on site with referrals also 
made for continued assistance after the event. This can often be the 
catalyst that enables the homeless veterans to get back into mainstream 
society. The Department of Labor has supported replication of this 
event. Many such events have been held throughout the nation.
    In areas where an HVRP is operating, the grantees are encouraged to 
participate fully and offer their services for any planned Stand Down 
event. Towards this end, up to $5,000 of the currently requested HVRP 
MHAA grant funds may be used to supplement the Stand Down effort where 
funds are not

[[Page 19544]]

otherwise available and should be reflected in the budget and budget 
narrative.

VIII. Rating Criteria for Award

    Applications will be reviewed by a DOL panel using the point 
scoring system specified below. Applications will be ranked based on 
the score assigned by the panel after careful evaluation by each panel 
member. The ranking will be the primary basis to identify approximately 
30 applicants as potential grantees. Although the Government reserves 
the right to award on the basis of the initial proposal submissions, 
the Government may establish a competitive range, based upon the 
proposal evaluation, for the purpose of selecting qualified applicants. 
The panel's conclusions are advisory in nature and not binding on the 
Grant Officer. The government reserves the right to ask for 
clarification or hold discussions, but is not obligated to do so. The 
Government further reserves the right to select applicants out of rank 
order if such a selection would, in its opinion, result in the most 
effective and appropriate combination of funding, program and 
administrative costs, e.g., cost per enrollment and placement, 
demonstration models, and geographical service areas. While points will 
not be assessed for cost issues, cost per placements will be given 
serious consideration in the selecting of awards. The Grant Officer's 
determination for award under SGA 01-02 is the final agency action. The 
submission of the same proposal from any prior year HVRP or HVET 
competition does not guarantee an award under this Solicitation.
Panel Review Criteria
1. Need for the Project: 15 Points
    The applicant will document the extent of need for this project, as 
demonstrated by: (1) The potential number or concentration of homeless 
individuals and homeless veterans in the proposed project area relative 
to other similar areas of jurisdiction; (2) the high rates of poverty 
and/or unemployment in the proposed project area as determined by the 
census or other surveys; and (3) the extent of gaps in the local 
infrastructure to effectively address the employment barriers that 
characterize the target population.
2. Overall Strategy To Increase Employment and Retention: 40 Points
    The application must include a description of the proposed approach 
to providing comprehensive employment and training services, including 
job training, job development, any employer commitments to hire, 
placement, and post placement follow up services. Applicants must 
address their intent to target occupations in expanding industries, 
rather than declining industries. The supportive services to be 
provided as part of the strategy of promoting job readiness and job 
retention must be indicated. The applicant must identify the local 
human resources and sources of training to be used for participants. A 
description of the relationship, if any, with other employment and 
training program such as SESAs (DVOP and LVER Programs), VWIP, other 
WIA programs, and Workforce Development Boards or entities where in 
place, must be presented. It should be indicated how the activities 
will be tailored or responsive to the needs of homeless veterans. A 
participant flow chart may be used to show the sequence and mix of 
services.

    Note: The applicant MUST complete the chart of proposed program 
outcomes to include participants served, and job retention. (See 
Appendix D)

3. Quality and Extent of Linkages With Other Providers of Services to 
the Homeless and to Veterans: 10 Points
    The application must provide information on the quality and extent 
of the linkages this program will have with other providers of services 
to benefit the homeless veterans in the local community outside of the 
HVRP grant. For each service, it must be specified who the provider is, 
the source of funding (if known), and the type of linkages/referral 
system established or proposed. Describe to the extent possible, how 
the project would fit into the community's continuum of care approach 
to respond to homelessness and any linkages to HUD, HHS or DVA programs 
or resources to benefit the proposed program.
4. Demonstrated Capability in Providing Required Program Services: 20 
Points
    The applicant must describe its relevant prior experience in 
operating employment and training programs and providing services to 
participants similar to that which is proposed under this solicitation. 
Specific outcomes achieved by the applicant must be described in terms 
of clients placed in jobs, etc. The applicant must also delineate its 
staff capability and ability to manage the financial aspects of Federal 
grant programs. Relevant documentation (within the last 12 months), 
such as financial and/or audit statements must be submitted (required 
for applicants who are non-profit). Final or most recent technical 
reports for HVRP, HVET, or other relevant programs should be submitted 
as applicable. The applicant must also address its capacity for timely 
startup of the program.
5. Quality of Overall Housing Strategy: 15 Points
    The application must demonstrate how the applicant proposes to 
obtain or access housing resources for veterans in the program and 
entering the labor force. This discussion should specify the provisions 
made to access temporary, transitional, and permanent housing for 
participants through community resources, HUD, DVA lease, HVRP, or 
other means. HVRP funds will not be used to purchase housing or 
vehicles.
    Applicants can expect that the cost proposal will be reviewed for 
allowability, allocability, and reasonableness of placement and 
enrollment costs.

IX. Post Award Conference

    A post-award conference for those awarded FY 2001 HVRP funds is 
tentatively planned for July or August, 2001. Costs associated with 
attending this conference for up to two grantee representatives will be 
allowed as long as they were incurred in accordance with Federal travel 
regulations. Such costs must be charged as administrative costs and 
reflected in the proposed budget. The site of the conference has not 
yet been determined but will likely be for three days in Washington, 
DC. Please use Washington, DC for budget planning purposes. The 
conference will focus on providing information and assistance on 
reporting, record keeping, and grant requirements, and will also 
include best practices from past projects.

X. Reporting Requirements

    The grantee will submit the reports and documents listed below:
A. Financial Reports
    The grantee must report outlays, program income, and other 
financial information on a quarterly basis using SF 269A, Financial 
Status Report, Short Form. This form will cite the assigned grant 
number and be submitted to the appropriate State Director for Veterans' 
Employment and Training (DVET) no later than 30 days after the ending 
date of each Federal fiscal quarter (i.e., October 30, January 30, 
April 30 and July 30) during the grant period.
B. Program Reports
    Grantees must submit a Quarterly Technical Performance Report 30 
days

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after the end of each Federal fiscal quarter to the DVET that contains 
the following:
    1. A comparison of actual accomplishments to established goals for 
the reporting period and any findings related to monitoring efforts;
    2. An explanation for variances of plus or minus 15% of planned 
program and/or expenditure goals, to include: (i) identification of 
corrective action which will be taken to meet the planned goals, and 
(ii) a timetable for accomplishment of the corrective action.
C. Final Report Packages
    The grantee must submit no later than 90 days after the grant 
expiration date a final report containing the following:
    1. Final Financial Status Report (SF-269A) (copy to be provided 
following grant awards);
    2. Final Technical Performance Report--(Program Goals); and
    3. Final Narrative Report identifying--(a) major successes of the 
program; (b) obstacles encountered and actions taken (if any) to 
overcome such obstacles; (c) the total combined number of veterans 
placed in employment during the entire grant period; (d) the number of 
veterans still employed at the end of the grant period; (e) an 
explanation regarding why those veterans placed during the grant 
period, but not employed at the end of the grant period, are not 
employed; and (f) any recommendations to improve the program.
D. Six (6) Month Close Out
    No later than 6 months after the 90 day closeout period, the 
grantee must submit a follow up report containing the following:
    1. Closeout Financial Status Report (SF-269A)
    2. Closeout Narrative Report identifying--(a) The total combined 
(directed/assisted) number of veterans placed during the entire grant 
period; (b) the number of veterans still employed during follow up; (c) 
are the veterans still employed at the same or similar job, if not what 
are reasons; (d) was the training received applicable to jobs held; (e) 
wages at placement and during follow up period; (f) an explanation 
regarding why those veterans placed during the grant, but not employed 
at the end of the follow up period, are not so employed; and (g) any 
recommendations to improve the program.

XI. Administration Provisions

A. Limitation on Administrative and Indirect Costs
    1. Direct Costs for administration, plus any indirect charges 
claimed.
    2. Indirect costs claimed by the applicant shall be based on a 
federally approved rate. A copy of the negotiated, approved, and signed 
indirect cost negotiation agreement must be submitted with the 
application.
    3. If the applicant does not presently have an approved indirect 
cost rate, a proposed rate with justification may be submitted. 
Successful applicants will be required to negotiate an acceptable and 
allowable rate with the appropriate DOL Regional Office of Cost 
Determination within 90 days of grant award.
    4. Rates traceable and trackable through the SESA Cost Accounting 
System represent an acceptable means of allocating costs to DOL and, 
therefore, can be approved for use in MHAA grants to SESAS.
B. Allowable Costs
    Determinations of allowable costs will be made in accordance with 
the following applicable Federal cost principles:

State and local government--OMB Circular A-87
Nonprofit organizations--OMB Circular A-122
C. Administrative Standards and Provisions
    All grants will be subject to the following administrative 
standards and provisions:
    1. 29 CFR Part 93--Lobbying.
    2. 29 CFR Part 95--Uniform Administrative Requirements for Grants 
and Agreements with Institutions of Higher Education, Hospitals, and 
other Non-profit Organizations, and with Commercial Organizations.
    3. 29 CFR Part 96--Federal Standards for Audit of Federally Funded 
Grants, Contracts and Agreements. This rule implements, for State and 
local governments and Indian tribes that receive Federal Assistance 
from the DOL, Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circular A-128 
``Audits of State and Local Governments'' which was issued pursuant to 
the Single Audit Act of 1984, 31 U.S.C. Section 7501-7507. It also 
consolidates the audit requirements currently contained throughout the 
DOL regulations.
    4. 29 CFR Part 97--Uniform Administrative Requirements for Grants 
and Cooperative Agreements to State and Local Governments.
    5. 29 CFR Part 98--Government wide Debarment and Suspension 
(Nonprocurement) and Government wide Requirements for Drug-Free 
Workplace (Grants).
    6. 29 CFR Part 99--Audit Of States, Local Governments, and Non-
profit Organization.
    7. Section 168(b) of WIA--Administration of Programs Please note 
that Sections 181-195 may also apply.
    8. 29 CFR Parts 30, 31, 32, 33 and 34--Equal Employment Opportunity 
in Apprenticeship and Training; Nondiscrimination in Federally Assisted 
Programs of the Department of Labor, Effectuation of Title VI of the 
Civil Rights Act of 1964; and Nondiscrimination on the Basis of 
Handicap in Programs and Activities Receiving or Benefitting from 
Federal Financial Assistance (Incorporated by Reference). These rules 
implement, for recipients of federal assistance, non-discrimination 
provisions on the basis of race, color, national origin, and 
handicapping condition, respectively.
    9. Appeals from non-designation will be handled under 20 CFR Part 
667.260
    10. 29 CFR Part 97--Uniform Administrative Requirements for Grants 
and Cooperative Agreements to State and Local Government.

    Signed at Washington, DC this 5th day of April, 2001.
Lawrence J. Kuss,
Grant Officer.

Appendices

Appendix A: Application for Federal Assistance SF Form 424
Appendix B: Budget Information Sheet
Appendix C: Assurances and Certifications Signature Page
Appendix D: Technical Performance Goals Form
Appendix E: List of 75 largest U.S. Cities
Appendix F: HVRP Performance Goals Definitions
Appendix G: Direct Cost Descriptions for Applicants and Sub-
Applicants

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[FR Doc. 01-9346 Filed 4-13-01; 8:45 am]
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