988 Planning Grants
A funding opportunity by Vibrant Emotional Health and the Lifeline to plan for the implementation of 988
About the Funding Opportunity
In July 2022, 988 will become the national three-digit dialing code for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, replacing the current phone number of 1-800-283-TALK (8255). As the administrator of the Lifeline since its inception in 2005, Vibrant Emotional Health knows that a national three-digit phone number can improve access to vital crisis services, improve the efficacy of suicide prevention efforts, and reduce the stigma about mental health and getting help.
Vibrant, through a special funding opportunity, seeks to collaborate with public health and mental health agencies in all 50 states and the District of Columbia to plan for the development of appropriate infrastructure and operations necessary for the full implementation of 988. U.S. Territories who, as of December 7, 2020, have a crisis center currently in the application process to join the Lifeline are also eligible for this funding opportunity.
Through this grant opportunity U.S. states, territories and Lifeline centers receiving grant funds will:
- Develop clear roadmaps for how they will address key coordination, capacity, funding and communication strategies that are foundational to the launching of 988 which will occur on or before July 16, 2022.
- Plan for the long-term improvement of in-state answer rates for 988 calls.
The number of awards to be paid depends on the number of successful applications, however, up to 54 awards may be made. As the lead applicants, state/territory agencies must partner with Lifeline-affiliated call centers in their state/territory for this grant.
Applications are due no later than 5 pm EST, Friday, January 8, 2021. Click here to submit your application. Directions and application requirements are listed within the Request for Applications (RFA). Frequently asked questions are below and more will be added to this page regularly.