Key Points
- The Social Services Block Grant is a flexible funding source that allows states and territories to tailor social service programming to their population's needs.
- Funds are allocated annually based on a formula set in law based on population and proportions set in 1981.
- States and territories must submit a plan to the federal office before receiving grant funds, outlining how they will use the funds and describing the demographics of recipients for SSBG-funded services.
- States and territories submit a report after each fiscal year on the actual use of grants, and the individuals served, which becomes the SSBG Annual Report.
- States and territories may provide services directly or sub-allocate funds to local qualified providers. The Social Services Block Grant does not provide direct grants to individuals.
FIM Opportunities
The Uniform Definitions of Services includes 29 service categories used to understand the activities provided to children, adults, seniors and individuals with disabilities.
Two of these services, congregate meals and home-delivered meals, have potential intersections with Food Is Medicine interventions and could provide an opportunity for collaboration with states, territories or local providers.
