AHS-27 FINAL.pdf

THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS

DEPARTMENT OF DEVELOPMENTAL SERVICES (DDS)

CENTRAL OFFICE

Address: 40 Broad Street, 4th Floor, Boston, MA 02109

Contact Name: Chris Peltier

Email: DDSPOSProcurement@mass.gov

Request for Response (RFR)

Document Title: Autism Housing Support Pilot

COMMBUYS BID Number: BD-27-1023-1023C-1023L-134723

DDS RFR Document Number: AHS-27

Date: October 22, 2026

It is the responsibility of the prospective Provider and awarded Contractor to maintain an active registration in COMMBUYS and to keep current the email address of the Provider’s/Contractor’s contact person and prospective contract manager and to monitor that email inbox for communications from the Purchasing Department, including requests for clarification. The Purchasing Department and the Commonwealth assume no responsibility if a prospective Provider’s/awarded Contractor’s designated email address is not current, or if technical problems, including those with the prospective Provider’s/awarded Contractor’s computer, network, internet service provider or anything else cause email communications sent to/from the prospective Provider/awarded Contractor and the Purchasing Department to be lost or rejected by any means including email or spam filtering. To register go to www.COMMBUYS.com.

This BID requires the submission of electronic quotes. All Providers are advised to allow adequate time for submission of their quotes by considering potential online impediments such as Internet traffic, Internet connection speed, file size, and file volume. DDS is not responsible for delays encountered by Providers or their agents, or for a Provider’s local hardware failures, computer, network, or any other failures associated with bid compilation or submission. Bids submitted via COMMBUYS are time-stamped by the COMMBUYS system clock which is considered the official time of record.

To be awarded a contract with the Commonwealth, a contractor must be active in Mosaic, formerly the Massachusetts Management Accounting and Reporting System (MMARS). Mosaic is the official accounting system of the Commonwealth and once registered a contractor will be issued a Vendor Customer Code number or a “VC” number. This VC number is used for all contracts that a contractor has with state agencies. An organization with existing state contracts, or a contractor who has had state contracts with any state agency in the past, has been registered in Mosaic and does not need to re-submit paperwork unless existing information in Mosaic needs to be updated. Providers that do not have a Vendor Customer Code or have changes to information or forms currently on file should send an email to:

DDSPOSProcurement@mass.gov

Public Records: All information, documents, and attachments submitted as a response to this RFR are subject to the Massachusetts Public Records Law, M.G.L., c. 66, s. 10, and to c. 4, s. 7, ss. 26. Please be aware that checking the “confidential” box in COMMBUYS does not bar these documents from being released as a public record pursuant to these statutes once the procurement is awarded, unless statutorily exempt from disclosure.

Contents

1.0 Procurement Scope and Description

1.1 Procurement and Contract Structure

1.2 Applicable Procurement Law

1.3 Whether Single or Multiple Contractors are Required for Contract(s)

1.4 Calendar Rule Type

1.5 Acquisition Method

1.6 Use of Procurement by a Single or Multiple Entities

1.7 Expected Duration of Contract

1.8 Anticipated Expenditure, Funding or Compensation for Expected Duration

1.9 Contracting Structure

2.0 Overview

2.1 Characteristics of Population to be Served

2.2 Enrollment Criteria for AHS Services

2.3 Service Description

3.0 Staffing Requirements and Responsibilities

3.1 Minimum Staffing Requirements

3.2 Housing Case Manager Qualifications

3.3 Training Requirements

4.0 Performance Requirements and Contract Monitoring

4.1 Documentation and Record Keeping Requirements

4.2 Enhanced Data Collection and Outcome Measures

4.3 Emergency Preparedness

5.0 Contract Invoicing

6.0 Questions and Evaluation Criteria

6.1 Questions

6.2 Evaluation Criteria

6.3 SDP Form for POS

7.0 Estimated Procurement Calendar

8.0 Required Forms

8.1 Other Forms

8.2 Instructions for Submission of Forms and Questions

8.3 Public Records

8.4 COMMBUYS Support

9.0 Other Requirements Pertaining to this RFR

9.1 Debriefings/Appeals

9.2 Debarment

9.3 Enterprise Invoice / Service Management (EIM/ESM)

9.4 Criminal Offender Record Checks (CORI)

9.5 Commission for the Protection of Persons with Disabilities (CPPD) – Registry of Abusive Care Providers

9.6 National Criminal Background Check

9.7 EOHHS Qualification Process

9.8 Privacy and Security

9.9 Virtual Gateway Business Services

10.0 Supplier Diversity Program for Purchase of Service (POS)

1.0 Procurement Scope and Description

The Department of Developmental Services (DDS or the Department) is issuing this RFR to identify qualified Providers for an Autism Housing Support (AHS) Pilot. The purpose of this Pilot is to provide housing navigation, stabilization, and tenancy preservation services for adults with autism. The Pilot will also supply knowledge, experience, and insight to inform the potential development of a new DDS service model of housing support and stabilization options for community living for adults with autism and other individuals DDS serves.

The AHS Pilot is for adults with autism without a co-occurring Intellectual Disability diagnosis. The Pilot seeks to establish a network of skilled housing coordinators in five (5) locations across the Commonwealth. The initial phase is to establish two (2) programs in DDS Central West and one (1) each in DDS Northeast, Southeast, and Metro regions. The Pilot allows for the addition of other service elements to these housing case management supports in certain cases, such as Remote Supports and Monitoring and other assistive technology supports, to enhance independence, safety, and housing success.

1.1 Procurement and Contract Structure

This Request for Response (RFR) incorporates all relevant provisions of 801 CMR 21.00 Procurement of Commodities and Services, the Standard Contract Form and Instructions, the Commonwealth Terms and Conditions for Human and Social Services, the Operational Services Division (OSD) Required Specifications for Purchase of Service (POS), Attachment C, and any amendments and/or additions to these documents during the life of this Bid.

This procurement will result in a Master Agreement contract with DDS and qualified Providers must sign a standard contract form. Proposals will be reviewed and scored by a Procurement Management Team (PMT) composed of members of the DDS Central, Regional, and Area Offices. Providers who receive the highest total score for a particular program will be recommended for award to the awarding authority. The Department reserves the right to make no award for any program bid and to withdraw the RFR. Funding will be managed by DDS either through a Service Summary Form or another mechanism determined by the Department to track authorized units of service and the rate of service(s). Cost reimbursement contracts for financial assistance may be issued as outlined below. Qualified Providers must receive written authorization from DDS prior to delivering services under this RFR.

1.2 Applicable Procurement Law

Check Appropriate Box (“X”)

Type of Purchase Applicable Laws

Goods and Services MGL c. 7, § 22; c. 30, § 51, § 52; 801

CMR 21.00

Human and Social Services MGL c. 7, § 22, § 22N; c. 30, § 51, §

52; 801 CMR 21.00; 808 CMR 1.00

Legal Services MGL c. 30, § 51, § 52 and § 65; c. 7, §

22; and 801 CMR 21.01(2) (b)

Grants MGL c. 7A, § 7; St. 1986 c. 206, § 17;

815 CMR 2.00

1.3 Whether Single or Multiple Contractors are Required for Contract(s)

Check One (“X”) Single Contractor Multiple Contractors

1.4 Calendar Rule Type

Check One (“X”) Type

Standard Procurement will not be reopened after the Bid Opening

Date (Response deadline date).

Open

May be reopened at a time and for a duration deemed necessary by the Department.

No responses will be received after the bid open date unless the Department chooses to reopen the RFR at a later date.

Rolling

Providers may submit unsolicited proposals. Proposals submitted after the initial due date will be reviewed and scored on a quarterly basis unless otherwise noted in the RFR/Bid.

1.5 Acquisition Method

Check One (“X”) Category

Cost Reimbursement (Financial Assistance, Area Office Approval)

Unit Rate Other:

1.6 Use of Procurement by a Single or Multiple Entities

Check One (“X”) Eligible Entities

Limited User Contract – Restricted to Use by Issuing Entity Only.

Limited User Contract – Restricted to Use by Defined Entities Only.

The qualified list of Providers resulting from this Bid will be open for use by the issuing Purchasing Department and the following other entities:

The Purchasing Department reserves the right to add or remove additional authorized users during the contract term.

1.7 Expected Duration of Contract

Initial Duration of Contract: two (2) years and six (6) months, with two (2) options to renew for an additional one

(1) year

Anticipated Duration of Contract: up to four (4) years, six (6) months

Final End Date of this Contract, with renewal options if exercised: June 30, 2031

1.8 Anticipated Expenditure, Funding or Compensation for Expected Duration

Estimated Total Value of Procurement, including renewal options, if exercised: $4,000,000.00 (four million dollars)

All services in this RFR are subject to appropriation. Should funding levels be adjusted significantly, the Department may seek provider re-affirmation of willingness to continue under modified program requirements.

At any time during the contract term, the Department may review services and consider taking corrective action, up to and including cessation or termination of all or part of the services covered under the Contract.

Reasons for taking corrective action include, but are not limited to: the provider has not satisfactorily achieved performance goals; the needs of the individuals change to the extent that they can no longer be appropriately served under the original terms of this procurement; a provider is unable to meet licensing or certification standards, or other issues or circumstances arise that result in a determination by the Department that a significant change in services is in the best interests of the individuals served or the Department. Generally, unless a termination notice has been given pursuant to the Commonwealth Terms and Conditions for Human and Social Services, the Master Agreement contract will remain in effect for the duration of the procurement.

The Department reserves the right to make contract awards for shorter durations when it is in the best interests of individuals, the Department, or the Commonwealth.

Check One (“X”) Contract will have a Maximum Obligation

Rate Contract: Contract will NOT have a Maximum Obligation Amount

Will Federal Funds be used to fund any part of Contract(s)?

No

Yes To What extent?

Capital, Trust and Federal Accounts Only Any funds designated in the budget that are unspent in any fiscal year will not be available for expenditure in the subsequent fiscal year.

1.9 Contracting Structure

EOHHS Qualification Process: New Providers Providers who have not been actively qualified by an EOHHS agency based on their submission of financial and organizational information must initiate the POS Qualification Process prior to submitting response/quote in COMMBUYS. To request forms and instructions regarding the POS Qualification Process, new providers should send an email to the following address: DDSPOSProcurement@mass.gov. Please see Section 9.7 for more details.

Notice concerning rates of payment: M.G.L. c 118E An Act Relative to Rates for Human and Social Service programs provides that the Commonwealth Secretary of Health and Human Services has the sole responsibility for established rates of payment for social service programs purchased by governmental units of the Executive Office. Providers will be reimbursed on a unit rate or accommodation rate based on rates established by the Executive Office Health and Human Services as stated in 101 CMR 414.00: Rates for Family Stabilization Services and other applicable rate regulations as may be amended from time to time during the Contract term. The rates of payment and reimbursement structures may change during the life of the Contract.

Rates will be established as a monthly accommodation rate based on one (1) Housing Case Manager per program. The Department may authorize additional Housing Case Manager(s) over the lifetime of this procurement and rates of payment will be adjusted accordingly. Rates of payment are considered payment in full for all program related expenses including staffing and related costs, supervision, rent / depreciation, travel, training, events/activities, administration of financial assistance, indirect administration, etc.

Anticipated units of service and funding levels will be established on an annual basis using a Service Summary Form or other such documentation as the Department may determine. Rates of payment and reimbursement structures may change during the lifetime of this procurement.

Where programs require capital items, and the Department has the resources to fund these items, cost reimbursement contracts and/or Capital Budgets may be authorized to cover the costs of these items in accordance with the Operational Services Division POS Capital Items Procurement Policy.

Room, board, and the cost of facility upkeep and maintenance are excluded under this service. This service is not a DDS residential service and therefore shall not be considered a residential service or supports for purposes of charges of care pursuant to 115 CMR 3.05. In certain circumstances, there may be a need for financial assistance services or purchase of ancillary goods or services to support the living arrangements of individuals who are served in this program. With prior approval and as funding allows, DDS may issue separate contracts to reimburse the Provider for these expenses. Details concerning these contracts are issued in separate guidance distributed by the Department.

Commercial Earnings Fees (for profit entities): Refer to 808 CMR 1.00. Compliance, Reporting and Auditing for Human and Social Services, 1.03(6). The commercial earning fee shall be equal to the current surplus revenue retention limit stated in 808 CMR 1.03(7).

2.0 Overview

Through this Pilot, DDS seeks to establish a network of skilled and dedicated Housing Case Managers across the Commonwealth to work closely with adults with autism without co-occurring intellectual disabilities to secure stable and appropriate community-based housing. The goal of this service is to empower participants to lead fulfilling lives in safe and supportive environments through personalized housing guidance, individualized supports, and strong community partnerships.

Many individuals or adults with autism want to live independently or with or near people they choose in their local community. However, the task of finding and maintaining suitable housing can be complicated by several common features of autism. While experiences of autism differ, many individuals with autism experience enhanced rigidity, increased responses to stress, significant sensory sensitivities, difficulty with change, and uneven skill profiles, all of which can make finding and maintaining housing more complicated. Differing perception of social conventions can impact the ability of individuals with autism to communicate effectively, resulting in misunderstandings, relationship breakdowns, difficulties accessing services, and conflicts with neighbors and landlords which may lead to housing instability.

Economic factors can also make independent living more difficult. In many communities, suitable housing is limited and increasingly expensive. In addition, adults with autism often have complicated employment profiles and difficulty securing competitive jobs that match their skills and provide a livable wage. This issue of employment is a particular concern, as recent studies show that almost 80% of adults with autism are either unemployed or significantly underemployed. This complicates the search for sustainable community-based housing and highlights the need for targeted supports for individuals who want or need to live more independently.

This proof-of-concept Pilot will provide housing navigation, housing stabilization, and tenancy preservation services for adults with autism-only (autism without accompanying intellectual disability) who are looking to take the next steps towards more independent, sustainable supported living in the community. Individuals may require assistance in various domains due to perceptual and skill challenges associated with neurodivergence.

Some individuals may be living with aging caregivers who are coming to the end of their ability to provide support. Others may be at risk of housing instability, eviction, or chronic homelessness due to executive functioning deficits that affect their ability to obtain, manage, and maintain housing.

Services must be delivered by Providers with expertise in housing navigation and tenancy supports. Providers must also be able to incorporate a working knowledge of autism and tailor services to individualized executive functioning and adaptive support needs. Providers must be willing to work collaboratively with other DDS service models and other providers in cases where supports outside a strict housing focus may be appropriate.

The number of individuals served through the AHS pilot may be periodically reassessed based on implementation experience, service utilization patterns, and evaluation findings. Initially, each Provider will be expected to maintain an active caseload of approximately thirty (30) adults with autism at any given time who require ongoing housing-related services and individualized support. This caseload refers to individuals actively engaged in housing navigation, housing stabilization, tenancy preservation, or other intensive housing-support activities and does not include individuals who require only periodic follow-up, monitoring, or check-ins after achieving housing stability.

DDS anticipates that approximately ten (10) individuals on active caseloads at each of the five (5) programs will receive financial assistance to help secure and maintain community housing. The remaining participants will receive housing navigation, housing stabilization, skills development, tenancy preservation, and related supports provided through the AHS pilot.

2.1 Characteristics of Population to be Served

This Pilot program intends to support adults with autism with a range of housing circumstances and support needs, from early planning for independent living to urgent housing stabilization and tenancy preservation. The following examples describe some of the situations in which individuals may benefit from autism-informed housing navigation, transition planning, practical assistance, and coordinated community support.

Some individuals may currently live with aging family members or caregivers and need to plan for future housing before their current living arrangement becomes unavailable or unsustainable. Support may include housing education and planning, identifying realistic community-based options, navigating applications and waitlists, planning for the transition, and arranging assistance with household responsibilities, appointments, finances, and other activities needed to maintain a home.

In some cases, individuals may have experienced chronic homelessness, unstable housing, repeated stays in shelters and temporary accommodations, and are at a higher risk of eviction. Supports may include consistent, individualized assistance to identify appropriate housing opportunities, coordinate with housing and community providers, navigate applications and eligibility requirements, and help establish and maintain a stable tenancy once housing is secured.

Other individuals might currently live with family and are beginning to explore independent or supported living but do not yet know how to begin the process. These individuals may benefit from early planning and individualized guidance to identify personal housing goals, understand available options, complete necessary applications, develop independent living and tenancy skills, and coordinate the supports needed to successfully transition into their own home.

2.2 Enrollment Criteria for AHS Services

To be eligible for enrollment for AHS services, an individual must be at least 18 years of age, be eligible for DDS supports under the adult Community Developmental Disability Supports (CDDS) criteria for Autism-only, and exhibit the following, but not limited to, criteria:

A level of readiness to pursue independent living, as demonstrated through prior experiences, personal goals, and an assessment of independent living skills.

The ability to achieve and maintain independent living with minimal to moderate supports.

Access to sufficient financial resources to support community living, including the ability to develop and maintain a realistic housing budget and meet ongoing living expenses, with any DDS financial assistance intended to supplement, rather than fully fund, housing-related costs.

DDS will work closely with qualified Providers of AHS services when referring individuals as part of this Pilot program. DDS expects individuals participating in this Pilot will have a goal to live more independently and/or successfully remain living independently. Individuals must be willing to participate in a Housing skills assessment and engage in housing readiness skill-building support as deemed necessary. They should have the ability to maintain a source of income to supplement any support from DDS while waiting for a traditional federal or state housing subsidy programs and be willing to provide proof of income as part of the application process. Individuals must adhere to lease expectations and accept staff support with tenancy preservation if issues arise. Individuals should be able to approach a housing search in a realistic and open-minded manner as it relates to current housing challenges, locality, financial, and personal need. If individuals seek financial assistance, they must meet all criteria as published in Department guidance for financial assistance.

2.3 Service Description

The Pilot requires Providers to deliver autism-informed housing support that recognizes and responds to the communication styles, sensory needs, routines, strengths, and support preferences of adults with autism.

These services are individualized, person-centered, and designed to reduce barriers to obtaining and maintaining community housing while promoting independence and long-term housing stability.

DDS expects that individuals who participate in this Pilot will require different service elements. Below is a summary of service elements with more details following. These service elements include, but are not limited to:

Housing Navigation Services: Person-centered component assists individuals in identifying, accessing, and securing safe, affordable, and suitable housing options, involving a range of services aimed at helping individuals navigate the complexities of the housing market, overcome barriers, and successfully secure and sustain appropriate housing.

Services may include, but are not limited to:

o Housing Assessment & Planning, such as conducting housing needs assessments and independent living assessments, assessing housing preference and realistic, personalized goal planning, developing individualized housing stability plans, and coordinating with family, guardians, and support teams o Housing Search Assistance, such as identifying affordable housing options, apartment and unit searches, housing application assistance, including applying to/tracking status of traditional state/federal housing subsidy programs o Coordination with Necessary Housing Agents, such as outreach and engagement with landlords, housing authorities, Regional Administrating Agencies, or other housing entities.

Providers of this service will provide support with the tenant screening process, including assistance arranging property tours, facilitation of reasonable accommodation requests, Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT) funding, as needed, and mediation between prospective tenants and landlords o Documentation & Move-In Support, such as assistance obtaining/gathering required supporting documents necessary for affordable housing eligibility, lease review and explanation, move-in planning, security deposit and utility assistance coordination, and furniture and household setup coordination

Housing Skill Development: Housing Skill Development refers to the knowledge, skills and available supports involved for an individual to successfully obtain and maintain housing. As such, Housing Skill Development refers to structured education, coaching, and skill-building activities designed to prepare individuals for successful tenancy by increasing their ability to secure and maintain housing.

Services may include, but are not limited to:

o Tenant Education, such as understanding tenant screening criteria, lease agreements, tenant rights and responsibilities, recertification process, fair housing, understanding building rules and policies, and privacy and roommate expectations o Financial Literacy, such as budgeting and financial planning, understanding income requirements for affordable housing programs, rent payment management, utility management, banking and money management skills, and credit education o Independent Living Skills, such as household organization, cleaning and sanitation routines, laundry and clothing care, meal planning and basic cooking, home safety practices, and time management and scheduling o Executive Functioning Supports, such as creating routines and checklists, calendar and reminder system training, organization and planning skills, and technology tools for daily living o Communication & Social Skills, such as communicating with landlords and neighbors, requesting repairs and maintenance, conflict resolution skills, and self-advocacy training

Tenancy Preservation Services: Tenancy Preservation refers to services to help an individual successfully maintain current housing. It focuses on preventing evictions and ensuring that individuals can remain in their homes by addressing various challenges that may jeopardize their tenancy.

Services may include, but are not limited to:

o Ongoing Housing Stability Support, such as regular tenancy check-ins, housing stability monitoring, and crisis prevention planning o Landlord-Tenant Relations, such as support to establish and maintain a positive tenant/landlord relationship and proactively address needs which may result in lease violation, support communicating housing concerns, advocacy with landlords and property managers, and assistance requesting reasonable accommodations, as needed o Eviction Prevention, such as rent arrears intervention, budget coaching when housing is at risk, problem-solving issues such as lease compliance, informal mediation and conflict resolution, responding to lease violations and generating plans to reduce risk of similar future violations, and collaboration with the Tenancy Preservation Program process and/or housing court o Home Maintenance Support, such as coaching on maintaining a clean and safe home, support creating maintenance schedules, assistance reporting repairs, pest prevention education, and utility management support o Community Living Support, such as neighbor relationship coaching, community participation support, safety and emergency preparedness planning, and connection to social and recreational activities o Service Coordination, such as coordination with case managers, employment services, healthcare and behavioral health providers, family members and caregivers

AHS services are intended to support autonomy, self-determination, and dignity of risk. Providers of AHS services should partner with DDS to integrate supportive technology into service delivery to enhance independence, safety, and access to the community as appropriate. Individuals receiving AHS should be considered for supportive technology through an Assistive Technology (AT) Assessment, with the expectation that technology will be explored as a means of achieving desired outcomes. As part of the assessment process, Remote Supports and Monitoring (RSM) should also be considered, where appropriate, and identified on the referral request. Referrals for AT Assessments will be made by the individual's Service Coordinator.

Recommended and approved equipment and services will be obtained through the Supportive Technology process using the rates established in the Assistive Technology-25 RFR for qualified AT-25 providers. For individuals approved to receive RSM, those services will be contracted separately from AHS through a qualified RSM-25 provider.

2.4 Individual Housing Plan

AHS services are based on an assessment of an individual’s needs and the development and implementation of a documented Housing Plan. Housing Plans shall be based on the individual’s expressed goals and objectives, and subject to the terms and conditions set forth in its contract with the Department. The Department, at its discretion, may incorporate the individual’s goals into the Department’s Individual Support Plan (ISP) to monitor progress, promote achievement of goals, and verify compliance with contractual requirements. The Provider will be responsible for report progress on these goals, setting new goals, and revising Housing Plans as needed. AHS Providers shall be responsible for implementing, updating and maintaining Housing Plans for each individual, using a DDS provided template.

2.5 Provider Responsibilities

Qualified Providers of AHS services must:

Hire and train a full-time Housing Case Manager(s) Maintain a close working relationship with DDS, other state and local agencies, and community resources, as needed Administer DDS-provided financial assistance on behalf of individuals in this program, in accordance with DDS policies and procedures Participate in information sessions regarding the Pilot and share progress and results with other stakeholders Develop assessment and skills-building activities for participants based on a completed Housing Plan Participate in data collection and periodic meetings with DDS and other Providers related to the ongoing development of this program and assist in creating tools and best practices to promote success

Identify training and other events related to housing

3.0 Staffing Requirements and Responsibilities

3.1 Minimum Staffing Requirements

The following requirements must be met for all staff employed to deliver services described in this RFR.

Certain services have established additional minimum requirements. Requirements stated in the RFR are in addition to those stated below.

Be 18 years of age or older Criminal Offense Records Inquiry (CORI) Under M.G.L. c. 123B, c.19B, §§ 19-20 and 115 CMR 12.00: National Criminal Background Checks, all individuals who qualify to provide these services who have the potential for unsupervised contact with persons with an intellectual or developmental disability are subject to fingerprint-based background checks (NBC)

Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 19C, §15, employers that provide services to individuals between the ages of 18 to 59 with Intellectual Disability (ID) or Developmental Disability (DD) are required to consult the Commission for the Protection of Persons with Disabilities (CPPD) Registry of Abuse Care Providers prior to hiring prospective employees

3.2 Housing Case Manager Qualifications

Housing Case Managers shall have the following qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree and at least two (2) years of experience in human services or housing supports General knowledge of state and federal affordable housing programs including eligibility criteria, application/recertification process, and tenancy preservation resources Understanding of fair housing laws and reasonable accommodations Personal and/or professional experience supporting individuals with autism is highly preferred Good organizational case management, and interpersonal skills, as well as proficient computer skills Ability to travel, including meeting an individual at their home or in the community, connecting with a variety of Housing Agents, and attending eviction/mediation proceedings as needed

3.3 Training Requirements

All staff must complete the following mandated training pursuant to 115 CMR 7.05(6) and DDS guidelines.

Over the lifetime of this procurement regulations may be amended and training requirements may be modified by DDS.

First Aid Incident Reporting PBS Universal Supports Human Rights CPPD/Mandated Reporter Training Safety Plan Basic Fire Safety

4.0 Performance Requirements and Contract Monitoring

Providers are required to provide updates to DDS as requested, participate in periodic utilization reviews, and submit reports as requested. Providers will be expected to provide DDS data related to outcomes, metrics, progress measures, staff salaries and FTEs, and other information upon request related to the performance and financing of services provided under the contract.

Providers of human and social services must file their Uniform Financial Statements (UFR) and Independent Auditor’s Report with the OSD on a yearly basis as outlined under Other Requirements. Providers must also submit a copy of the current Supplier Diversity Plan (SDP) Plan Form for POS that reflects yearly spending with their UFR as a condition of continuing to do business with the Commonwealth.

4.1 Documentation and Record Keeping Requirements

In accordance with requirements established in the Commonwealth Terms and Conditions for Health and Human Services, providers must maintain records, books, files, and other data as required by 808 CMR 1.00 and as specified in this RFR in such detail as shall properly substantiate claims for payment made under this contract. These records shall be maintained by the provider and must be made available to DDS upon request.

DDS defines the requirement to maintain records necessary to substantiate billing as follows:

Attendance records / logs verified with signatures and dates Brief summaries of the nature of service provided such as progress notes, daily logs, service encounter summaries, or other description of each service encounter

4.2 Enhanced Data Collection and Outcome Measures

Qualified Providers will participate in a Community of Practice (COP) with DDS staff, provider organizations, and other stakeholders as designated by DDS to support the ongoing development and refinement of the AHS Pilot. The COP will focus on the progress of service provision and the overall program model through regular examination of program, participant, and service delivery data; identification of emerging trends and outcomes;

sharing of effective practices and lessons learned; and discussion of implementation challenges. Qualified Providers will participate in developing recommendations for service and program improvements based on these findings to enhance service quality, participant outcomes, program effectiveness, and the long-term sustainability of the AHS Pilot.

Due to the proof-of-concept nature of services provided under this RFR, Providers will be required to participate in structured data collection, performance monitoring, and outcome measurement activities designed to support program evaluation, continuous quality improvement, and future program development. In collaboration with DDS, Providers will develop and implement a common set of baseline and follow-up assessment and data collection tools that will be used across all sites to promote consistency in service delivery, outcome measurement, and program evaluation.

Providers will collect and report data related to key domains of participant outcomes and program performance, including housing stability, housing readiness skills, tenancy success, quality of life and participant satisfaction, community integration, self-determination, and service effectiveness. Specific performance measures and reporting requirements will be developed in partnership with DDS and may be refined over the course of the initiative based on implementation experience and emerging findings.

4.3 Emergency Preparedness

A Provider must have a current, written, and documented business Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP).

The Plan must be updated annually, and as necessary, and an electronic copy furnished to DDS upon request.

5.0 Contract Invoicing

All invoicing for services provided under this contract shall be conducted through the Enterprise Invoice Management (EIM) system. Awarded Providers are required to establish and maintain user accounts within EIM and maintain up-to-date organizational information and appropriately offboard accounts for staff that are no longer employed by the awarded Provider or otherwise do not need to maintain access to EIM.

A Provider may not begin services or incur any obligation in any form until a Standard Contract Form with any supplements thereto has been signed by authorized representatives of DDS and the Provider.

Payment through Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) is required for any contract awarded through this solicitation. Please see the COMMBUYS Bid Attachment Section for this form.

Accommodation Rate Services All accommodation rate contracts will be invoiced using an accommodation rate invoice.

Cost Reimbursement Contracts Contracts issued on a cost reimbursement basis will be reimbursed through a cost reimbursement invoice submitted in EIM. Providers must report line-item expenses in accordance with the approved line items in the cost reimbursement budget.

6.0 Questions and Evaluation Criteria

Providers seeking to deliver services under this procurement should directly and clearly address each of the response areas listed below with particular attention to page limitations. Each item will be scored according to the values and guidance contained in the Evaluation Criteria below. Attachments or appendices not requested and any program descriptions beyond the page limit will not be reviewed.

6.1 Questions

1. Housing Support (maximum of three (3) pages) (scoring modifier two (2))

a. Describe your organization's experience and expertise providing housing supports and case management, including to those with disabilities, such as individuals with autism, ID/DD, and other populations. Include experience with housing navigation, affordable housing programs and subsidies, landlord engagement, reasonable accommodations, housing readiness supports, and tenancy preservation.

b. Describe how your organization will deliver AHS services to address the needs of individuals supported in this Pilot program.

2. Experience with Autism Population (maximum of two (2) pages) (scoring modifier one and a half

(1.5))

a. Describe your organization's experience and expertise supporting adults with autism and other neurodiverse individuals in community settings. Include any experience adapting services to address executive functioning, adaptive functioning, communication, sensory, or other support needs. If not a current area of expertise for your organization, describe how you will build and sustain this capacity and train staff participating in the AHS pilot.

3. Staffing (maximum of two (2) pages) (scoring modifier one (1))

a. Describe your plan for the timely recruitment, hiring, and training of qualified Housing Case Manager staff.

b. Describe how you assess the quality of staff service provision to individuals at various locations in the community, often without direct supervision. How does your organization ensure that services are provided in a safe, skillful, and respectful manner?

c. Describe training opportunities available to staff beyond required trainings and the systems your organization uses to ensure training completion and competency development.

4. Service and Community Collaboration (maximum of two (2) pages) (scoring modifier one and a half (1.5)) Individuals participating in the AHS pilot may receive other DDS or community-based services, including remote supports and monitoring or case management focused on other domains of independent living.

a. Describe your organization's experience providing services in a collaborative environment that requires cooperation, communication, and coordination among multiple providers and supports.

Provide a specific example of one (1) such collaboration and its outcomes.

b. Describe how your agency works to maximize community resources to support an individual’s success. If not a current area of expertise for your organization, describe how you will develop and sustain these resources.

5. Data Collection (maximum of one (1) page) (scoring modifier one (1)) This Pilot as a proof-of-concept model will require close collaboration with DDS staff and other Pilot qualified Providers. It will also include enhanced data collection on key program quality outcome measures.

a. Describe how your agency will support effective data collection and quality management.

b. Describe any previous similar work that includes collaboration with numerous stakeholders and others providing similar services. If this is a new model for your organization, describe how you will meet this requirement.

c. Describe your organization’s plan to ensure compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996.

6.2 Evaluation Criteria

The PMT shall score responses using a consensus scoring approach based on the information submitted in the written response. The PMT shall review and evaluate the written response based on the following criteria:

understanding of the nature and scope of the services requested, comprehensiveness and clarity of response, operational strength and efficiency, appropriateness and feasibility of proposed services, effectiveness of proposed approach, innovation, and responsiveness to the goals of the procurement. The PMT may additionally consider the Provider’s history and/or experience serving these or similar individuals and families, and the Provider’s past performance with the Department.

The PMT shall score each question in accordance with the rating scale below. Each question also has a scoring modifier; once the question is scored, the score will be multiplied by the modifier to achieve the final score.

0 points: response is lacking a description, or the description is materially incomplete, not relevant to the services provided, or the description fails to meet the standards established in the RFR;

response demonstrates a lack of understanding of service expectations and/or the proposed services are not feasible or appropriate.

1 point: response does not address all components of the question completely and clearly and is below standard; proposed services/approaches do not meet standards set forth in the RFR or do so only in part;

Provider has limited experience or poor prior performance in providing this or similar service.

2 points: response addresses all components of the question completely, the proposed services/approaches meet the minimum standards set forth in the RFR, Provider demonstrates experience in providing this or similar service.

3 points: response addresses all components of the question completely and clearly; some components of the proposed services/approaches exceed the standards set forth in the RFR while others meet the minimum standards; Provider experience in providing this or similar service.

4 points: response addresses all components of the question completely and clearly and exceeds the standards set forth in the RFR, proposed services are exceptional, and innovative, and demonstrate expertise and a deep understanding of successful ways to provide support to diverse individuals and families, Provider demonstrates exceptional prior experience in providing this or similar service.

6.3 SDP Form for POS

Total of ten (10) points, which is 25% of all available points All Providers are required to make a meaningful financial commitment (SDP Commitment) by partnering with one (1) or more Supplier Diversity Program (SDO) certified or recognized diverse business enterprises or non-profit organizations. More details can be found in Section 10.0 of this RFR. Providers that do not have POS contracts should estimate the funding level they expect to maintain through this procurement, if a contract is awarded.

To be awarded a contract, Providers must, at a minimum, commit to the following:

For new Providers: at least one (1) proposed SDP Partner and a current-year financial commitment.

For existing Providers: at least one (1) SDP Partner, prior-year spending information, and a current year financial commitment.

A. Submit the SDP Form for POS (version dated October 2026), included with this RFR on

COMMBUYS. All yellow fields must be completed. (6 total points)

Committed Amount in Current Fiscal Year (Column E) Points Awarded

No Certified Partners are listed, and no SDP spend 0

Less than 1% spend 2

1.0 to 1.9% spend 4

2.0 or more % spend 6

B. Providers should describe how the current or planned operations of their organization support racial/health equity. This response must be no more than one (1) page and included in the response document provided on COMMBUYS. (4 points)

7.0 Estimated Procurement Calendar

Event Date

RFR Release Date October 22, 2026

Provider Conference Via Zoom*

Zoom Link:

https://zoom.us/j/96380871397?pwd=K9a pXo1BEftU6V5ywZbC2Q7Py5TeAS.1

Meeting ID: 963 8087 1397 Passcode: 920694

November 5, 2026

@ 3 PM EST

Deadline for Questions All Questions must be submitted to DDS POSProcurement@mass.gov email or through COMMBUYS by the date and time indicated. All Questions with answers will be posted on COMMBUYS. The Department is not bound by any oral comments or representations made by the Contact Person(s) and/or any other Department employee. Telephone calls will NOT be accepted.

Providers are prohibited from communicating directly with any employee of the Department except as specified in this RFR.

November 6, 2026 by 5 PM EST

Bid Opening Date/Deadline for Electronic Submissions All responses must be submitted electronically using the online submission tools available to Vendors registered in

COMMBUYS.

December 2, 2026 by 5 PM EST

Contract Start Date January 1, 2027 Contract End Date June 30, 2031

* Please be advised that recording meetings, by any means, including the use of any AI applications, without prior permission is strictly prohibited. If you require an accommodation to participate in meetings, please submit a request in writing to the DDSPOSProcurement@mass.gov per the attachment to this RFR titled “OSD RFR-Required Specifications for POS Services”.

8.0 Required Forms

Check if applicable (“X”)

Form/Document Notes/Instructions

Cover Page & Response Document Include with Electronic

Submission

Organizational Chart for Contracting Entity

Include with Electronic

Supplier Diversity Plan Form for POS Include with Electronic

Standard Contract Form and Instructions For information purposes only; do not fill out

Contractor Authorized Signatory Listing For information purposes only; do not fill out

8.1 Other Forms

If the following signed documents are not on file with the Office of the State Comptroller, or there are changes to forms current on file, the Provider must submit electronic versions of these forms to the email address noted on the cover page of this Bid.

Request for Taxpayer Identification Number & Certification (Massachusetts Substitute W-9 Form) EFT Form

The above noted forms may change or be revised during the life of this procurement. Updated forms will be posted on COMMBUYS.

8.2 Instructions for Submission of Forms and Questions

All responses to be submitted electronically using the online submission tools available to Providers registered in COMMBUYS. There is no charge to register in COMMBUYS. To Register go to www.COMMBUYS.com and click on the “Register” link on the front page.

The Department is processing the standard contract form electronically when possible. Providers should not submit signed copies of the standard contract form or the contractor authorized signatory listing posted on COMMBUYS with their proposal. These forms are posted for informational purposes only.

Electronic Signatures To be considered, quotes must be submitted via COMMBUYS. To Register, go to www.COMMBUYS.com and click to the Commonwealth on the “Register” link. Quotes must be signed electronically by the Bidder or the Bidder’s Agent by accepting the terms and conditions of the bid on the “Terms & Conditions” tab in COMMBUYS. Bidders do this by selecting “Save & Continue” on the “Terms and Conditions” tab after accepting the terms and conditions of the bid. By agreeing to this, the submitter attests that they are an agent of the Bidder with authority to sign on the Bidder’s behalf, and that they have read and assented the terms of each document.

All Providers are advised to allow adequate time for submission by considering potential online submission impediments like Internet traffic, Internet connection speed, file size, and file volume. DDS is not responsible for delays encountered by Providers or their agents, or for a Provider’s local hardware failures, such as computers or related networks, associated with bid compilation or submission. Bids submitted via COMMBUYS are time-stamped by the COMMBUYS system clock which is considered the official time of record.

File Format and Naming Conventions Scanned documents will be accepted and must be scanned in such a way that they can be read on a computer monitor and printed on 81/2” x 11” paper, unless otherwise specified. Zipped files will be accepted and must be in a .zip format when saved. Other zip file formats will not be accepted.

DDS requires that all response attachments uploaded to COMMBUYS…