Deadline today to apply for funding aimed at helping vulnerable Kaua‘i youth, adults

Prosecuting Attorney Rebecca Like reminded the public that the deadline is fast approaching for the Life’s Choices Adult and Adolescent Mental Health and Substance Abuse Community Program Grants. Applications are due by 4:00 p.m. on Friday, February 14.

Eligible proposals include community programs that provide pro-social youth activities, clinical mental health services and/or substance abuse treatment on Kaua‘i. Applicants need not be directly providing substance abuse or mental health treatment but could be providing pro-social youth and young adult activities.

Pro-social youth and young adult activities include initiatives and programs that encourage positive social behavior, personal development, and community engagement. These activities reduce substance abuse by providing healthy outlets for participants. Elements of these programs could include physical activity, emotional wellbeing, building resilience, leadership training, civic engagement, mental health support, reduction in risky behavior, mentoring and peer support, counseling or therapy, coping skills and/or confidence building.

The Request for Proposals is viewable on the Life’s Choices website at: https://www.kauai.gov/Government/Departments-Agencies/Prosecuting-Attorney/Lifes-Choices-Kauai

Applications will only be accepted via email at opagrants@kauai.gov . All applications must be submitted by 4:00 p.m. on Friday, February 14, 2025. Applications will not be accepted by postal mail, fax, or in-person delivery. Proposals received after the deadline will not be considered.

Applicants will be notified of funding decisions during the week of February 24, 2025. Project funding will be available from March 15, 2025, through March 14, 2026.

Notification of the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney’s approval and recommendation for funding will be made during the week of February 24, 2025. Prosecutor Like stated, “This year, priority consideration will be given to programs serving adolescents and young adults on Kaua‘i. Evidence continues to show that engaging youth in pro-social activities leads to better outcomes as adults. If your organization serves youth and is a qualifying nonprofit, we encourage you to apply.”

A total of $1,000,000 in grant funding is available.