WASPC announces RFP for Arrest and Jail Alternatives Grant Program

A new grant program is accepting proposals through January 30. Under SSHB 1767, the 2019 Legislature directed the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs (WASPC) to create a grant program to develop arrest and jail alternatives throughout Washington.

The $1 million grant fund is aimed at supporting local efforts to identify criminal justice system-involved persons with substance use disorders and other behavioral health needs and engage them with therapeutic interventions and other services. Grant funds will be used to accomplish specific goals such as reducing arrests and time spent in custody, increasing access to community behavioral health services, and reducing utilization of emergency services.

WASPC’s request for proposals is being released alongside the Health Care Authority’s RFA 4007 in hopes that communities will leverage funds from both sources to create stronger programs and increase positive outcomes.

Applications to the program are due by Thursday, January 30 at 3 pm.