The purpose of the SNAP E&T Data and Technical Assistance (DATA) Grants is to support thedevelopment of State SNAP E&T data collection and reporting systems.
FNS is interested in fundingprojects that improve States’ ability to use administrative data, such as Quarterly Wage Record
credit:
(QWR)information, as the source for employment and earnings of E&T participants and former participants,because it is the preferred and most reliable and efficient method to meet reporting requirements.States using random sampling to gather information are doing so as an interim approach until systemsto use administrative data are in place.
Therefore, proposals that include random sampling ofparticipants or former participants as a long term strategy will not be considered.These grants are intended to help States better report outcome measures for SNAP E&T participants,meet reporting expectations, and, thereby, support improved, data driven programs.
Proposed projectsmust:
have a direct impact on State capacity to accurately and efficiently track outcomes for SNAPE&T participants; increase understanding of effective strategies to improve employment and earningsoutcomes for SNAP E&T participants; and/or increase a State’s ability to use outcomes data tocontinuously improve its SNAP E&T programs.
Funds from this RFA shall not be used for theongoing cost of carrying out existing operations.The SNAP E&T DATA grants are intended to support the full range of needs States may have relatedto the development, collection, reporting, analysis and use of SNAP E&T participant outcomes data.The use of funds should be for one or more of the following purposes:
1) training and capacitybuilding, including efforts to improve E&T data quality; 2) information technology (IT) systemsdevelopment to support the collection, reporting, and analysis of SNAP E&T data; and/or 3)continuous program improvement of SNAP E&T programs, including the provision of effective andefficient services that move SNAP participants toward stable, good jobs.
Funds can be used for morethan one purpose, but applicants should clearly state the purpose(s) for which the funds will be used.