HFS Social Health Care Network (SHCN) Program

Summary

The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) released NOFO #3997-20-26-SHCN for the Social Health Care Network (SHCN) Program. HFS is seeking one statewide lead organization to develop, maintain, and strengthen a network of community-based organizations (CBOs) delivering health-related social needs (HRSN) services for Medicaid beneficiaries under the 1115 waiver. The SHCN will support CBOs as providers of Medicaid-covered social care, including technical assistance, infrastructure, and capacity building funding. Estimated annual funding is $5–8M; funding is state-sourced with no cost-sharing requirement. One anticipated award for the 2026–2027 cycle.

Eligibility

Eligible applicants are single statewide organizations capable of building and supporting a network of community-based organizations (CBOs) to provide HRSN services under the Medicaid 1115 waiver. Applicants must be registered in the Illinois GATA Grantee Portal and maintain pre-qualification through GATA.

Requirements Checklist

• Application period is June 3, 2026, through July 20, 2026, with applications due via the Illinois GATA Grantee Portal by 5:00 PM CT. A technical assistance session will be held June 16, 2026, 12 PM–1 PM CT via WebEx (registration required). No cost share or matching funds are required. Indirect costs are allowed. Applicants must submit the completed application form, GATA registration verification, organizational capacity statement, and a work plan and budget narrative. See NOFO and GATA portal for full eligibility and submission requirements.

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