ATTACHMENT A - DRAFT SOW - CERS TRANSITIONAL HOUSING.docx

DRAFT STATEMENT OF WORK

Purpose:

The Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Long Beach Healthcare System hereafter referred to as VALBHS, is located at 5901 E.7th Street, Long Beach, CA, 90822 requires Contractor to provide homeless veteran services through a Contracted Emergency Residential Services (CERS) model of residential care at a facility located within Orange County (OC) lines, not to exceed twenty five (25) miles travel distance from the VALBHS main hospital or within the VALBHS catchment area in Los Angeles County. These services are to be provided to homeless Veterans as defined in the Statement of Work (SOW).

Contracted Emergency Residential Services (CERS) programs target and prioritize homeless Veterans transitioning from literal street homelessness, Veterans being discharged from institutions, and Veterans who recently became homeless and require safe and stable living arrangements while they seek permanent housing. CERS Programs, either directly or through linkage with community and other VA services, provide time-limited services such as supporting mental health stabilization, SUD treatment services, enhancement of independent living skills, vocational training, and employment services. Emphasis is placed on referral and placement in permanent housing or longer-term residential programs utilizing VA and/or community resources. Lengths of stay in CERS typically do not exceed 90 days but do have the option to extend up to 180 days based on clinical need.

Eligibility will be determined by the VA, based on veteran status; meeting the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act definition of homelessness and an assessment by the VA HCHV program resulting in a determination of making the Veteran highly vulnerable and requiring CERS services.

Background:

The Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) has been providing direct and specialized services for homeless Veterans for nearly 25 years. The Secretary of the VA has set a zero-tolerance policy for homelessness within the Veteran population. As part of the Plan to End Homelessness among Veterans announced in late 2009, the Veterans Health Administration has been increasing both capacity of existing programs and services offered to program participants. The plan calls for utilizing new models of care not previously offered by VA.

The Health Care for Homeless Veterans (HCHV) program, established from the 1987 Homeless Chronically Mentally Ill (HCMI) pilot, aims to reduce Veteran homelessness through outreach, case management, and connections to housing, healthcare, and support services. As a key component of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), HCHV provides transitional housing, rehabilitative services, and assistance with permanent housing and vocational support.

HCHV programs prioritize Veterans transitioning from homelessness, those with co-occurring mental health or substance use disorders, and those requiring safe housing while seeking permanent solutions. Federal law permits VA medical facilities to contract with community providers to deliver therapeutic and rehabilitative care, ensuring compliance with policies, statutes, and uniform inspection standards to maintain Veteran safety and wellbeing.

HCHV Contracted Residential Services (CRS) programs target and prioritize Veterans transitioning from literal street homelessness, homeless Veterans with co-occurring mental health or substance use disorder {SUDs), and Veterans who recently became homeless and require safe and stable living arrangements while seeking permanent housing or treatment options.

The Health Care for Homeless Veterans {HCHV) CRS program includes two models:

1. Contract Emergency Residential Services (CERS):

CERS provides short-term housing (up to 90 days, with extensions as needed) for homeless Veterans seeking permanent housing. It prioritizes those transitioning from street homelessness, institutional discharge, or recent homelessness. Services include mental health stabilization, substance use disorder {SUD) treatment, independent living skill development, and vocational support, with a focus on transitioning to permanent housing or long-term programs.

2. Low Demand Safe Havens (LOSH):

LDSH offers 24-hour staffed transitional housing (4-6 months, extendable) for chronically homeless Veterans with mental illness and SUD who may not benefit from traditional treatment programs. These low-demand environments foster trust and encourage Veterans to engage in treatment and housing services.

The intent of this contract is for the Veterans Affairs Long Beach {VALBHS) to engage a community provider to offer homeless Veterans community-based Contracted Emergency Residential Services {CERS).

The VA's Plan to End Veteran Homelessness calls for enhancing current homeless service capacity as well as developing new programs and initiatives in concert with community and federal partners. This contract will enable the VALBHS to engage a community provider to offer homeless Veterans services through a CERS model of residential care. This model will offer services 10 Bed Days of Care to homeless Veterans under the HCHV CERS program enhanced by the services as defined in the SOW. Rapid stabilization of the Veterans' medical, mental health, substance abuse and other psychosocial problems in order to place Veterans in other appropriate transitional or permanent housing within 90 days, and no more than 180 days, without a planned reason for the extension approved by the VA liaison, is an expected outcome of this Contract.

This contract will be awarded to a Contractor having an acceptable facility within Orange County (OC) lines, not to exceed twenty-five {25) miles travel distance from the VALBHS main hospital or within the VALBHS catchment area in Los Angeles County. If no facilities are available within this area, consideration will be given to the Contractor whose facility meets all the stated requirements and is closest to the VALBHS. A VA Liaison to the Contractor will be identified by the homeless program leadership at VA and appointed by the VALBHS facility Director, or designee. This individual will act as the coordinator of CERS program for administrative related issues and clinical liaison for all client related issues between the Contractor and VA by providing clinical oversight. The VA Liaison will not provide direct clinical supervision to Contractor staff. The VA Liaison will also consult with and provide input to the Contractor as needed.

The Contractor shall provide all labor, supervision, housing, material and supplies necessary to provide emergency residential placement, treatment, and supportive services through the HCHV program CERS Model. Services will be provided on-site at the Contractor's facility, in accordance with all term's conditions, provisions and requirements of the contract.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Contract Emergency Residential Services (CERS) programs target and prioritize homeless Veterans who require safe and stable living arrangements while they seek permanent housing. This includes Veterans transitioning from literal street homelessness, Veterans being discharged from institutions who are homeless, including those in need of short-term medical respite or recuperative care, and Veterans who recently became homeless. CERS programs, either directly or through linkages with community and other VA services, provide time-limited services such as supporting mental health stabilization, SUD treatment services, enhancement of independent living skills, vocational training and employment services. Emphasis is placed on referral and placement in permanent housing or longer-term residential programs utilizing VA and community resources. Lengths of stay in CERS typically range from 30 to 90 days with the option to extend based on clinical need.

VA intends to engage a contractor to provide rapid placement of Veterans in a safe, supportive, residential setting while addressing Veterans' complex needs through on-site supportive case management services. This housing must meet the criteria established both by HCHV clinical staff and VA fire and safety officials. Contractors are urged in the strongest terms to carefully review the requirements outlined in the SOW to ensure that all facilities fire and safety and supportive services criteria can be met in a timely way.

This program will be located within Orange County (OC) lines, not to exceed twenty-five (25) miles travel distance from the Veterans Affairs Long Beach Healthcare System (VALBHS) main hospital or within the VALBHS catchment area in Los Angeles County.

The program should be actively operating in the required county and will be for 10 beds. Services must be available to both male and female Veterans. The contractor will be required to provide a therapeutic environment which provides clinical and rehabilitative services to homeless Veterans. The contractor will not be required to provide detoxification or other hospital level treatment.

HCHV CERS Program admission criteria is:

A. Must be a Veteran B. Be enrolled in the VA health care system and eligible for VA healthcare services C. Meet the McKinney-Vento Act homeless definition

At the discretion of the VHA, eligibility criteria may be updated for HCHV CERS. Contractor to be notified of updates if they occur.

Veterans are referred to the contractor based on a demonstrated short term need for case management and supportive services to stabilize their mental health, substance abuse, medical and/or other co-occurring serious psychosocial issues in order to secure transitional or permanent housing as quickly as possible.

The VALBHS facility Director, or designee, identifies a HCHV-CRS liaison. The HCHV CRS Liaison is a healthcare professional (e.g., social worker) responsible for ensuring smooth operation and compliance of HCHV CRS programs. The HCHV CRS Liaison provides administrative and care services oversight of the HCHV contract funded programs as defined in the HCHV rules, regulations, and directives such as, the HCHV-CRS Program VHA Directive 1162.04.

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE:

The period of performance will start shortly after award for a one (1) Year Base Period with the Government having the option to exercise four (4) one-year option periods for a total of five (5) years.

CONTRACT TYPE:

Firm Fixed Price Indefinite Delivery/ Indefinite Quantity.

PLACE OF PERFORMANCE:

The Offerers facility where services are to be provided shall be within Orange County (OC) lines, not to exceed twenty-five (25) miles travel distance from the Veterans Affairs Long Beach Healthcare System (VALBHS) main hospital or within the VALBHS catchment area in Los Angeles County. Government furnished workspace will not be provided for this effort.

CONTRACT AWARD MEETING:

The Contractor shall not commence performance on the tasks in the awarded SOW until the Contracting Officer or representative has conducted an initial meeting or has advised the Contractor that an initial meeting is waived. Additionally, if Government chooses to exercise option years of contract, follow up meetings will take place annually, at minimum.

GOVERNMENT FURNISHED PROPERTY:

Government furnished property will not be provided to the Contractor. All equipment required by the Contractor will be provided at their expense.

METHOD OF INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE:

The Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) will evaluate all deliverables submitted. The COR is responsible for certifying invoices for payment only for deliverables received and deemed acceptable by the COR.

Implementation Timeline The contract facility and associated onsite services are expected to pass inspection and become fully operational within 90 days from the date of contract award. Failure to meet the 90-day milestone may result in the contract being terminated. The Contractor will demonstrate successful completion of the following tasks, validated by VA inspection, prior to receiving Veteran referrals and invoicing for payment:

Site control demonstrated at time of contract award. This may be through ownership or lease. All permits and license will be reviewed. The Contractor is required to ensure that the facility used for this contract meets fire and safety code imposed by the State law, and the Life Safety Code of the National Fire and Protection Association. It is important to note that typically the Life Safety Code is more stringent than local or state codes. No additional funds will be made available for capital improvements under this contract. Applicants also should note that all facilities, unless they are specifically exempted under the Life Safety Code, are required to have an operational sprinkler system.

VA will conduct an inspection that Contractor sites must pass prior to contract award. The Contractor is required to ensure the facility used for this contract meets the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines for accessible accommodations for Veterans with physical limitations or impairments. This is also referred to as "Architectural Barriers Act compliant." At least 5% - 7% of a facility's HCHV Contract Residential Care beds must meet ADA accessibility requirements, to include entrances/exits, bathroom facilities, and common areas. Veterans must not be segregated from the rest of the facility due to physical disability; they must have full access to the services and supports at the facility.

The Contractor's facility must be appropriately licensed as required for its specific setting under State or Federal authority and must comply with all applicable local, state, and Federal licensing, health, and occupancy regulations. Copies of valid licenses must be submitted to the VA during the pre-inspection process and annually for inspection reviews. Where applicable, the facility must also maintain a current occupancy permit issued by the relevant authority.

Facilities providing Contracted Emergency Residential Services housing and supportive services for female Veterans under this contract are required to ensure the safety and privacy of these Veterans. Men and women must have separate bathroom facilities. The facility must have female residential rooms or sections that are securely segregated or restricted from men to ensure safety and privacy. If the facility cannot accommodate both male and female Veteran at one location, the provider must make available equivalent facilities and services for the opposite gender that meet the terms of the contract for facilities and services.

Pre-Award Inspection of the facility and on-site services conducted by VA contract inspection team. This team is made up of HCHV clinical staff, VA fire and safety officials, nursing, dietetics, and other staff as deemed necessary for facility inspection. Pre-award inspection will be completed within 90 days of quote submission. Any items requiring corrective action will be communicated to the Contractor in writing within one (1) week of inspection.

Complete the abatement of all inspection corrective action(s) and pass VA inspection. To be completed within 90 days of pre-award inspection.

Identify all staff required per the Statement of Work (SOW), have them in place and available to provide full range of case management and services to Veterans. To be completed within 90 days of contract award.

Work will be performed at the Contractor's facility within the geographic limitations outlined above. Government furnished workspace will not be provided for this effort. Government furnished property will not be provided to the Contractor. All equipment required by the Contractor will be provided at their expense. The Contractor will be required to attend frequent meetings and planning sessions at VA throughout the term of the contract.

Complete a post-award inspection of the facility and on-site services conducted by VA clinical staff and safety specialist. Items requiring corrective action will be communicated to the contractor in writing within 1 week after the inspection.

Within 90 days of the award.

Identify all staff required per the Statement of Work and have in place and available to provide the full range of case management and onsite services to Veterans.

Within 90 days after the contract award.

Tasks & Deliverables

Emergency Housing Facilities and Management A. Contractor must have site control of the housing facility through ownership or valid lease.

B. Contractor is required to ensure that the facility used for this contract meets fire and safety code imposed by the State law, and the Life Safety Code of the National Fire and Protection Association. It is important to note that typically the Life Safety Code is more stringent than local or state codes. No additional funds will be made available for capital improvements under this contract. Applicants also should note that all facilities, unless they are specifically exempted under the Life Safety Code, are required to have an operational sprinkler system. VA will conduct an inspection that contractor sites must pass prior to contractors being able to submit a request for per diem payment to ensure this requirement is met.

C. Contractor is required to ensure that the facility used for this contract meets the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines for accessible accommodations for Veterans with physical limitations or impairments. This is also referred to as "Architectural Barriers Act compliant." No additional funds will be made available for capital improvements under this contract. Must be 1 ADA compliant bed for 1-21 beds and 2 ADA beds for 21-40 beds at a minimum. Veterans must not be segregated from the rest of the facility due to physical disability; they must have full access to the physical plant as well as the services and supports at the facility. If a contractor determines that complying with ADA requirements would be prohibitive due to significant renovations or modernization at their facility, an interagency agreement with another emergency housing provider that meets the ADA requirements may be used, provided the second emergency housing provider is able to meet the same requirements as required by the contract. Contractors utilizing an interagency agreement must also have written policies and procedures that clearly describe how comparable on-site services will be provided by the contractor to Veterans residing in an interagency agreement facility. The contractor retains full responsibility for meeting the terms of the contract for facilities and on-site services when utilizing an interagency agreement to meet ADA requirements.

D. Contractor facility must be licensed as required for the setting under State or Federal authority, and must meet all applicable local, state, and Federal requirements concerning licensing and health codes. Copies of valid licenses must be provided to the VA at the time of pre-inspection and during annual inspection reviews. Where applicable, the facility must have a current occupancy permit issued by the authority having jurisdiction.

E. The contractor providing housing and supportive services to female Veterans under this contract is required to ensure the safety and privacy of these Veterans. Men and women must have separate bathroom facilities. The facility must have female residential rooms or sections that are securely segregated or restricted from men to ensure safety and privacy. If the facility cannot accommodate both male and female Veterans at one location, the provider must make available equivalent facilities and services for the opposite gender that meet the terms of the contract for facilities and services.

GUIDELINES FOR SERVICES:

1) The Contractor must provide a safe environment for all Veterans consistent with the CERS model of housing and services. The Contractor will offer safe and stable time-limited living environment along with supportive services necessary to complete a individualize treatment plan to obtain permanent housing. Veterans cannot be denied entry to CERS based solely upon length of current abstinence from alcohol or non-prescribed controlled substances, the number of previous treatment episodes, the time interval since the last program entry, the use of prescribed controlled substances, or legal history. The screening process must consider each of these special circumstances and determine whether the program can meet the individual Veteran's needs while maintaining the program's safety, security, and integrity.

2) The Contractor must communicate policies and procedures to Veterans both verbally and in writing in a manner that is understandable to each Veteran upon admission to the facility, in the form of a written Veteran handbook that is verbally reviewed by the assigned case manager with the Veteran. All updates to any policies and procedures must be reviewed with Veterans within 7 days of revision. This communication must be documented in the Veteran's client record.

3) The Contractor must have emergency and disaster plans with written protocols that are posted to guide staff response to crises including, but not limited to, manmade and natural disasters, episodes of infectious diseases, physical injury, program participants suicide or suicide attempts, overdoses, and domestic or other violence. All contractor's staff are trained on emergency procedures and protocols.

SERVICES TO BE PROVIDED: The Contractor shall furnish each Veteran who has been approved as eligible by the VA and admitted for care under this contract the following basic services:

1) ROOM AND BOARD:

Room and Board shall be accessible to the Veteran seven (7) days a week and 24 hours per day. Accommodations will include a bed and other furnishings such as a dresser, storage, and personal linens (towels and bed sheets). The bed must be designated for use exclusively by the individual Veteran from the time of admission to the time of discharge. The bed must be situated in a room that affords the Veteran safety, privacy, and security. Each Veteran must have a safe and secure place to store their belongings that is readily accessible to the Veteran (such as a locking closet, a locking armoire, a locker, etc.)

2) NUTRITION:

a) Meals to include at least three (3) nutritionally adequate meals a day, 7 days a week and availability of nutritious snacks between meals and bedtime for those requiring or desiring additional food, when it is not medically contraindicated. This is to include alternative meals or food supplies for Veterans with dietary restrictions if medically indicated (e.g., diabetic, renal, and soft mechanical diets} and reasonable accommodation for Veterans with cultural/religious preferences around food (e.g., Kosher, Sikh). A VA dietitian may assess printed menus as well as Veterans' satisfaction with meals and the actual consumption of food offered in determining the Contractor's success in meeting this requirement during annual facility inspection or at any point during the contract period.

b} All food must be stored, handled and served in a safe and sanitary manner that meets accepted industry standards and guidelines. In general, the accepted industries for food handling/safety standards and guidelines are the following U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA} (https://www.fda.gov/food} and Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA} (https://www.usda.gov/about-food/food-safety}

3} LAUNDRY FACILITIES:

On-site laundry facilities and necessary supplies for Veterans to do their own laundry or to have laundry done. The Contractor is responsible for the costs of laundry services. If said facility is not available on site, contractor is responsible for providing alternative. This is to be at no cost to the Veteran or the Government. Adequate amounts of laundry detergent. Hypo-allergenic detergent may be required for medical reasons as prescribed.

4) INTERNET AND COMPUTER ACCESS:

Internet access shall be available to Veterans residing at the facility. Access shall consist of a service/speed rating of at least 10 Megabytes per Second (Mbps} Download, lMbps Upload or better. Wireless or other access shall be provided so that it is possible for three (3} or more users to access internet services simultaneously. The contractor shall provide hardware (computer(s}, printer, etc.} to be utilized. Veterans conducting online employment or housing searches and application should be given priority of usage. The Contractor will be responsible for establishing hours of usage as well as setting any internet controls or firewall they deem essential.

5} ENVIRONMENT OF CARE SERVICES:

a} The Contractor must provide a clean and comfortable environment of care that is structurally sound facility; does not pose any threat to the health and safety of the occupants and protects them from the elements. The facility entries and exit locations are capable of being utilized without unauthorized use and provide alternate means of egress in case of fire; every room or space will have natural or mechanical ventilation; be free of pollutants in the air at levels that threaten the health of Veterans; provide a water supply free from contamination; has sufficient sanitary facilities in proper operational condition, allowed to be used in privacy, and are adequate for personal cleanliness and the disposal of human waste. Facility must have adequate heating and or cooling mechanisms that are in proper operating condition; adequate natural or artificial illumination to permit normal indoor activities and to support the health and safety of Veterans; provides sufficient electrical sources to permit use of essential electrical appliance while assuring safety from fire. All housing and equipment will be maintained in a sanitary manner free from pests, insects and vermin and will provide a warm, welcoming, and respectful atmosphere through lighting and decor. Contractor ensures that furniture is well maintained and comfortable. It is the Contractor's responsibility to maintain a clean and comfortable environment that meets these conditions. For example, the Contractor would be responsible for alleviating a bed bug infestation by hiring an exterminator at its own expense.

b) Provides a library room, computer lab, and/or recreational area for Veteran use that is accessible and quiet. The library room must have books and other reading material available for Veterans' recreational use as well as a working computer for Veterans to learn or enhance their computer skills.

c) The contractor will be required to host frequent meetings to discuss clinical and administrative matters. Additionally, Contractor must provide office space for VA staff to meet with Veterans as needed. In both cases, the space must be HIPPA compliant and is the sole responsibility of the contractor. The VA Liaison is to be onsite at the Contractor facility at least once per month, or as often as needed. Dates and times of VA staff visits will vary, based on the clinical needs of the population served.

d) It is the contractor's responsibility to maintain a clean and comfortable environment of care that meets these conditions. No additional funds will be made available for capital improvements under this contract in the event corrective action is required to remedy a negative condition. For example, the contractor would be responsible for alleviating a bed bug infestation by hiring an exterminator at its own expense. Contractors must ensure that they have sufficient operating funds in addition to VA funding to maintain the facility according to the requirements of the contract.

6) TRANSPORTATION:

The Contractor will ensure that transportation is available for Veterans at admission to CERS, to attend medical/mental health appointments, search for permanent housing and to address other care needs. This can be done through provision of bus passes, utilization of cab services or contractor provided transportation. These costs will be considered part of the basic services provided.

7) OUTREACH:

Outreach will be conducted by the contractor and VA homeless outreach staff in conjunction with street outreach teams within VA catchment area. Engagement with the

Veteran should be goal-directed with consistent staff geared toward building trust and getting the Veteran to accept CERS admission.

8) MEDICATIONS:

a) Contractor shall provide Veterans with appropriate space and security for the storage of medications as outlined in VHA-10-l0llSa HCHV Contractor Provider Inspection Template. A list of current medications will be available for each resident in the case record. Veterans will manage medications but should have a secure storage area in which to keep them. The Contractor shall have a written procedure that address the storage while providing access to medications and safe disposal of medications and syringes. Each Veteran shall be educated about the medication procedures and the importance of safely storing their medications.

b) Medications including controlled substances shall be properly stored and controlled and proper issuance upon orders from prescribing provider shall be provided for and recorded. Medications will be stored in accordance with CARF standards. Medications will be provided according to physician's orders and shall be documented in accordance with CARF standards.

9) CASE MANAGEMENT SERVICES:

The Contractor shall provide, at minimum, the following case management services to Veterans in the program:

a) Engagement of the Veteran in the service planning process. Contractor will carry responsibility for interviewing, counseling and case managing identified Veterans by conducting psychosocial assessments to identify treatment needs which affect the Veterans' adjustment to their environment.

b) Contractor will assess the psychosocial and environmental needs or dysfunction secondary to or exacerbating the social, substance or psychiatric problems, which might contribute to Veterans' readjustment challenges in the community. Contractor establishes and maintains an intensive therapeutic relationship with the Veteran, staff, and community programs/agencies, and is responsible for formulating case management treatment goals with the primary goal being to obtain stable housing and plans that address identified needs, stressors, and problems.

c) Contractor will conduct high-risk screening, psychosocial assessment, and treatment planning, actively involving the Veteran and their family or significant others, in coordination with the team members. Psychosocial assessments will include goals for clinical treatment. Contractor coordinates and documents clinical case management and psychosocial services and documents the overall effectiveness of the case management services provided. Specifically, Contractor will:

i) Develop a highly Individualized Service Plan (ISP) (also referred to as, Treatment Plan) with the Veteran consistent with CERS program goals; the plan must specifically include provisions for Veteran placement into an appropriate transitional or permanent housing placement within 90 days of admission to the HCHV CERS facility with no more than 180 days without a planned reason for extension approved by the VA Liaison. The housing placement planning must take into account all appropriate and available community-based housing options as well as the Veteran's preferences regarding location and housing type. The plan should also be focused on getting the Veteran(s) to accept services, especially mental health and substance use services that will allow attainment of transitional or permanent housing.

ii) Complete a written ISP within three (3) days of program admission and signed by the Contractor and the Veteran. A copy ofthe IPS is to be provided to the VA Liaison same day it is completed and signed.

iii) Review ISP with Veteran a minimum every thirty (30) days thereafter and include progress note in HER.

iv) Make changes in plans in consultation with the Veteran at weekly case management meetings. Weekly case management meetings with Veterans will focus on the objectives and tasks in the ISP. Contracted case manager will provide Veteran with a written copy of their weekly tasks.

d) Screen each Veteran for suicidal and homicidal risk as necessary. If the Veteran is a danger to him/herself or others Contractor will take immediate steps to provide appropriate intervention. Crisis management will focus on immediate safety for the Veteran and contract staff. The Contractor will follow its established policies and protocols for managing crisis situations. The Contractor will provide said policies and protocols to the VA at the outset of the contract and upon any modification to the policies and protocols. The Contractor will contact the VA Liaison and inform of the incident immediately upon safe to do so.

e) Contractor will conduct monthly case conferencing with Contractor clinical Director, Contractor Case Managers, VA Liaison and other VA Homeless and Contractor staff as necessary. Coordinate with VA Liaison during weekly case conferences regarding updates and changes in Veterans' care plans to foster a collaborative relationship with the VAMC and Contractor in meeting Veterans' needs. Case conferencing may be done in person or by telephone or video conference calls as determined by VA staff.

f) Obtain relevant Releases of Information to communicate and coordinate Veterans' treatment with VA and other community-based service providers.

g) Work in close collaboration with the VA Liaison to ensure Veterans' connections to needed VA medical, mental health, and substance abuse treatment and care.

h) Contractor will take primary responsibility for assisting Veterans in completing housing applications and other benefits paperwork as needed. Contractor will assist Veterans in obtaining the needed documentation required for complete applications including but not limited to, birth certificates, state ID, income verification and any additional information required by housing resources and potential income supports.

i) Contractor will provide transportation for Veterans to attend appointments at the VA, potential housing placements, benefits agencies, meetings with landlords, etc. Contractor will attend meetings with Veterans when appropriate according to Veteran's needs.

j) The Contractor will provide the following onsite therapeutic and rehabilitative services including health and personal hygiene maintenance, Supportive social services, in collaboration with the VA and other involved community resources. Opportunities for immediate learning and/or development of responsible living with a goal of achieving a more adaptive level of psychosocial functioning; Support for an alcohol and/or drug-free lifestyle; Opportunities for learning, and internalizing knowledge of the illness and/or recovery process; improving social skills; and improving personal relationships; and Opportunities for client participation in community activities, volunteer opportunities, local consumer services, etc. The Contractor will support an alcohol and/or drug-free lifestyle by training its staff in the appropriate harm reduction techniques and to be aware of the signs and symptoms of substance use.

k) The Contractor shall adapt therapeutic and rehabilitative services to include onsite, VA or community service and will provide transportation for Veterans to receive services such as: structured groups and activities to promote social skills building and healthy lifestyles. Groups may include emphasis on self-care skills, adaptive coping skills, vocational counseling, in collaboration with the VA Liaison or community resources as appropriate to support the goal of obtaining and maintaining permanent housing.

I) Contractor will notify VA through the VA Liaison at VA of any negative incident occurring with a Veteran within 24 hours of being informed or made aware of the incident, if not sooner. The Contractor will investigate, confirm, and resolve all incident reports. Contractor will complete a written incident report within 48 hours of notification. Incidents include but are not limited to: death; fire; drug/police raid; suicide/suicide attempt; 911 call (police/fire dept./paramedics/other); drug overdose; severe medical illness/ emergency; severe psychiatric illness/ emergency; sexual assault; act of violence by Veteran against other(s); abusive behavior by Veteran against staff; act of violence by other(s) against Veteran; abusive behavior by staff against Veteran; accident; medication problems or adverse drug reactions; or other untoward events.

m) In the event a Veteran residing in HCHV CERS housing under this contract dies, the Contractor will promptly notify the VA Liaison authorizing admission and immediately assemble, inventory using established protocol, and safeguard the Veteran's personal effects. The funds, deposits, and effects left by Veterans upon the premises of the facility shall be delivered by the director or manager of the facility to the person or persons entitled thereto under the laws currently governing the facility for making disposition of funds and effects left by Veterans unless the beneficiary died without leaving a will, heirs, or next of kin capable of inheriting. When disposition has been made, the itemized inventory with a notation as to the disposition has been made, they will be immediately forwarded to the VA Liaison. Property and funds wherever located vests in and becomes property of the United States in trust. In these cases, the facility will forward an inventory of any such property and funds in its possession to the appropriate VA office and will hold them (except articles of clothing necessary for proper burial) under safeguard until instructions are received from the VA concerning disposition.

10) ADDITIONAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS:

a) The Contractor shall comply with the VA patient's Bill of Rights as set forth in Section 17.34a, Title 38, Code of Federal Regulations. The Contractor is responsible for maintaining Veterans' privacy and confidentiality and must have systems in place that protect Veteran's personal identifying information and protected health information. This includes but is not limited to the following: having adequate private office space for Veterans to meet in confidence with their case manager; having secured paper and electronic filing systems to protect clients' case records and other documentation; conducting ongoing training of staff about maintaining client privacy and confidentiality in all verbal and written communications and interactions; ensuring that non clinical/non-case management facility staff have access to Veteran information only as needed in order to meet the service requirements contained in the contract.

b) It is understood that those Veterans cared for under this contract will require care and services over and above the level of room and board. The contractor shall comply with the principles listed in 38 CFR 17.707(b) to provide housing and supportive services in a manner that is free from religious discrimination.

c) The contractor shall permit VA staff to inspect the facility and/or review Veteran participant treatment protocols at any time deemed necessary by the VA. The contractor shall establish a plan of correction to address any deficiencies identified during inspections, including reasonable timeframes for remediation and procedures for tracking progress. The contractor shall maintain ongoing communication with the VA Liaison and Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) regarding the status of corrective actions.

d) To ensure compliance with the terms and conditions of the contract, the contractor must meet with the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) prior to starting construction or major renovations. During this meeting, the contractor and COR will collaborate to develop alternative solutions for housing Veterans and create a plan to maintain adherence to the requirements outlined in this Statement of Work (SOW). Additionally, contractors should be aware that random inspections may be conducted to ensure compliance, and these inspections will be carried out by authorized personnel.

II. Staffing- HEALTH REQUIREMENTS Contractor certifies that his/her employees have received the following testing/immunizations within the past year and will maintain coverage during the contract period:

a) Tuberculosis Testing - the PPD test or radiological exam shall be repeated annually.

b) Rubella Testing- all contract personnel shall provide proof of immunization for measles, mumps, rubella, or rubella titer of 1:8 or greater. If the titer is less than 1:0, the rubella immunization must be administered with follow-up documentation to the COR.

c) Immunizations - for purposes of infection control, all contract employees shall take required immunizations and any health action required by generally accepted public health standards and any immunizations necessitated by any outbreaks in the area/community. Contract personnel will not be allowed to perform duty until immunization documentation is provided to the COR.

d) Health Restrictions - contract employees shall have no health or physical disability restrictions which interfere with the performance of duties.

Ill. STAFFING AND TRAINING:

1. The Contractor shall employ sufficient personnel to carry out the policies, responsibilities, and programs of the facility. There must be, as a minimum, at least one

(1) administrative staff member or designee of equivalent professional capability, on duty on the premises or residing at the house and available for emergencies 24 hours a day, seven (7) days a week. The Contractor shall assign to this contract personnel that, by education and training, and when required, certification or licensure, are qualified to provide the services required by this SOW. The Contractor must identify each person functioning as "Key Personnel" under this contract and provide the VA a description of the services to be provided by such a person, together with a resume summarizing the person's relevant skills and experience. At a minimum:

a. One (1) full-time supervisor/clinical director licensed by the state of California as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Psychologist, or Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and have at least one year of experience as a clinical supervisor of a residential homeless facility and two years' experience supervising case managers in the human services field, responsible for the overall functioning of the program including assurance that all policies and procedures are being followed, coordination of weekly staff meetings, management of CERS provider staff and be available by phone 24 hours daily, seven (7) days a week to provide consultation during working business hours to all staff on site as well as afterhours hours to provide ongoing supervision of case to case management personnel .

b. One (1) Full-time case manager with a minimum of a bachelors level education in social work or other human services related field or at least two years' experience providing homeless case management services to carry a maximum caseload of 20 Veterans. Those with certifications in substance use disorders should be given preference.

c. A minimum of one (1) behavioral health technician or certified nursing aide, or certified medication technician/aide, or administrative staff member at the facility. Staff on duty must remain awake and available to interact with veterans during their work tour, whether during the day or at night. Certified nursing aides and certified medication aides may be used in lieu of a behavioral health technician, but there should always be one (1) staff member, as a minimum, on duty at any time.

d. Contractor Staff members working each shift, at least one shall hold current Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification and ensure certification is renewed in accordance with the issuing body or organization. Copy of CPR certificates should be stored by contractor and made available upon request of VA personnel.

e. Contractor Staff members providing regular direct services to residents should adhere to annual TB testing, precaution should be taken to ensure positive testing of employees are addressed according to agency policies.

f. Contractor shall provide safety training to all staff to assist with identifying situations that are likely to result in physical harm, and approaches to use when confronted with a dangerous situation.

g. Contractor shall adhere to appropriate city and state requirements for food handling and safety and contractor shall have a valid food handler's permit or certification as required by obtained through the state of residence. Copies of permits shall be provided to the COR upon request.

h. The Contractor shall provide an initial organizational chart, identifying personnel, their position, and area(s) of responsibility to the Contracting Officer prior to contract award. Any certifications or licensure required will be made available upon request. The Contracting Officer shall notify the Contractor within 15 calendar days after receipt of required information ifthe VA refuses to accept assigned contract personnel. The Contractor shall be responsible for updating the organization chart as changes in staff occur. The VA reserves the right to refuse or revoke acceptance of personnel if personal or professional conduct, or lack of required skills or experience, jeopardizes Veteran care or interferes with regular and ordinary operation of the facility.

i. The Contractor must have a contingency plan to address the replacement or substitution for personnel that leave the Contractor's employment or are unable to provide performance in accordance with the terms and conditions of the resulting contract.

j. Contractor staff must always maintain professional boundaries with the Veteran while conveying an attitude of genuine concern and caring.

k. Contractor staff should under no circumstances engage in sexual activities or sexual contact with Veterans or their family members, whether such contact is consensual or forced.

I. Contractor should under no circumstances take unfair advantage of any professional relationship or exploit Veteran clients or their family members to further their personal, religious, political, or business interests.

m. Contractor staff should not engage in dual or multiple relationships with Veterans or their family members in which there is a risk of exploitation or potential harm to the Veteran or Veteran family.

n. Contractor is responsible for taking steps to protect Veterans and their family members and is responsible for setting clear, appropriate, and culturally sensitive boundaries.

o. All Veteran complaints or Contract staff conduct incidences shall be reported to the VA Liaison within 3 business days of the complaint or possible Contract staff conduct incidences. The Contractor will provide the VA Liaison with a written summary ofthe compliant or incident, the Contractor's response, and a proposed resolution. The VA Liaison will respond to the Contractor in writing within 3 business days to accept, negotiate or decline the proposed resolution. In instances where the proposed resolution or response does not appear sufficient to resolve the compliant, the Contracting Officer will provide the Contractor with written guidance and timeframe for resolution.

p. Contractor to provide the following Veteran-centric therapeutic and rehabilitative services onsite including:

i. A variety of daily structured groups and activities to promote social skills building and healthy lifestyle. Examples of Veteran-centric services include psychosocial group sessions; physical activities; facilitated outings or social activities in the local community specific to Veteran's clinical needs. Daily activity schedules must be printed and posted in facility common areas to ensure Veteran awareness and promote participation.

ii. Weekly groups that support long-term permanent housing stabilization goals.

iii. Health and personal hygiene maintenance.

iv. Monitoring of medications, if necessary.

v. Supportive social services, in collaboration with the case managers, VA or other community resources; Supportive services include, but are not limited to: collaboration with accessing VA and/or other community benefits such as general relief and social security, helping link veterans to accessing ID cards if necessary, linkages to requested support groups in the community such as AA, NA, outpatient medical and mental health services.

vi. Professional counseling as required with an emphasis on self-care skills, adaptive coping skills, vocational counseling.

vii. Opportunities for immediate learning and/or development of responsible living with a goal of achieving a more adaptive level of psychosocial functioning.

viii. Support for an alcohol and/or drug-free lifestyle.

ix. Opportunities for learning, and internalizing knowledge of the illness and/or recovery process; improving social skills; and improving personal relationships.

x. Opportunities for client participation in community activities, volunteer opportunities, local consumer services, etc.

2. The contractor shall comply with the VA patient's Bill of Rights as set forth 38 CRF17.33 Patient's Rights. The contractor is responsible for maintaining Veterans' privacy and confidentiality and must have systems in place that protect Veteran's personal identifying information and protected health information. This includes but is not limited to:

a. Having adequate private office space for Veterans to meet in confidence with their case manager.

b. Having secured paper and electronic filing systems to protect clients' case records and other documentation.

c. Conducting ongoing training of staff about maintaining client privacy and confidentiality in all verbal…