RFQ_13230_child_passanger_safety_seat_services.pdf

passenger safety

REQUEST FOR QUOTES (RFQ) 13230

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

FOR CHILD PASSENGER SAFETY SEAT (KEEP’EM SAFE PROGRAM SERVICES

August 5, 2026

A. KEY INFORMATION

1. The County of San Diego is seeking quotes from firms interested in providing child Pass (“Offerors”).

2. The County anticipates a contract term of an initial (base) period of one (1) year, with one (1) one-year option periods.

3. The County has posted this solicitation on its official BuyNet website at https://sdbuynet.sandiegocounty.gov/.

To see all information related to this RFQ, to submit Questions, and to receive notifications of updates, Offerors must select “Participate in RFx” for this solicitation in BuyNet.

4. The Contracting Officer for this solicitation is Joshua Blandino, Procurement Specialist, ( Joshua.Blandino@sdcounty.ca.gov )

5. Schedule: This timeline is subject to change at any time, at the County’s sole discretion. The County will issue an addendum for changes to the Questions due date, or Quote due date.

Event Description Date and Time (San Diego Time) Questions due August 24, 2026, prior to 5:00 p.m.

Quotes due September 2, 2026, prior to 3:00 p.m.

6. Questions:

6.1. Offerors should submit all Questions, including requests for clarification related to definition or interpretation of this RFQ, in writing by the Date and Time specified in the Schedule. Offerors should submit Questions via BuyNet, by sending a message to the Contracting Officer through the “Discussions” functionality.

6.2. Non-Offerors should direct inquiries regarding this solicitation to the Contracting Officer.

7. Table of Contents:

A. Key Information B. RFQ Instructions and Rules C. Submittal Items D. Required Forms E. Statement of Work F. Payment Schedule G. Draft Agreement

MAGGIE RAMSBERGER

INTERIM DIRECTOR

DEPARTMENT OF PURCHASING AND CONTRACTING

5560 OVERLAND AVENUE, SUITE 270, SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA 92123-1204

PHONE (858) 505-6367 FAX (858) 715-6452

BRENDA MILLER

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR

https://sdbuynet.sandiegocounty.gov/

COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO – REQUEST FOR QUOTATIONS (RFQ) 13230

DEPARTMENT HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

FOR CHILD PASSENGER SAFETY SEAT (KEEP’EM SAFE PROGRAM) SERVICES

B. RFQ INSTRUCTIONS AND RULES

1. INSTRUCTIONS FOR SUBMITTING A QUOTE

1.1. It is Offeror’s responsibility to submit a quote based on the most current RFQ, addenda thereto, County’s responses to Questions, any other information posted on BuyNet, and any diligence material made available by the County. Offerors are advised to regularly check BuyNet for information. The County has no obligation to contact Offerors directly with any such RFQ-related information.

1.1.1. To see all information related to this RFQ, to submit Questions, and to receive notifications of updates, Offerors must select “Participate in RFx” for this solicitation in BuyNet.

1.1.2. If an Offeror is unable to download this document, an Offeror may request a hard copy from

Department of Purchasing and Contracting’s front desk or contact clerical support at (858) 505- 6367.

1.2. Forms required to be submitted with Offerors response to this RFQ are included in this RFQ or posted on the County’s web site at: https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/purchasing/purchasing-forms.html.

1.2.1. The County may update posted forms from time to time. Unless otherwise specified, Offerors may submit the version of a form in place as of the date of the posting of this RFQ or any later version thereof.

1.3. Offeror must submit a complete original quote in accordance with the format provided in this solicitation to the County of San Diego, Department of Purchasing and Contracting, through electronic upload to BuyNet before the Date and Time listed in Schedule.

1.3.1. If Offeror is unable to submit via BuyNet for any reason, Offeror may submit its quote via email to the Contracting Officer listed in this document or provide the Purchasing and Contracting front desk with either (i) electronic files on CD/DVD; or, (ii) a printed quote. Offeror must prominently mark such submissions with the RFQ number on the outside of the packaging. Please use this method only if unable to submit through BuyNet.

2. QUESTIONS

2.1. Offerors shall direct requests for explanation regarding the RFQ or related documents to the Contracting

Officer, in writing, as a question (“Question”). Offerors may submit Questions by sending a message to the Contracting Officer through the “Discussions” functionality in BuyNet.

2.2. The County may choose not to respond to Questions received after the date and time stated in the Schedule for Question submission. Offeror is responsible for ensuring that Questions are received by the County.

3. QUOTE FORMAT

3.1. Submit electronic quotes as files in .pdf format, except where specified otherwise. For pages other than signature pages, converted and searchable formats are preferred.

3.2. All quotes shall be signed with a handwritten signature by an authorized officer or employee of Offeror.

4. QUOTE ORGANIZATION

4.1. Your quote should be organized in accordance with the Submittal Items in this RFQ.

4.1.1. Offerors shall organize content to correspond to the applicable exhibit and question or item within each exhibit.

4.1.2. Offerors shall separate each exhibit into one or more files, clearly named as to the exhibit and order.

4.1.3. Pages shall be consecutively numbered within each exhibit at the bottom or top margin of each page.

4.1.4. Cost/Price information:

4.1.4.1. Offerors must place all cost and pricing information within the Cost/Price exhibit. Price shall be inclusive of all proposed compensation.

4.2. Confidential/Proprietary information:

https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/purchasing/purchasing-forms.html https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/purchasing/purchasing-forms.html

4.2.1. The County is a public agency subject to the California Public Records Act, Government Code § 7920.000, et seq. Some or all of the documents submitted in response to this RFQ may be subject to disclosure, and the County intends to publish any resulting contracts to its public website.

4.2.2. It is Offeror’s responsibility to identify and separate into a “CONFIDENTIAL/PROPRIETARY” exhibit and to provide a signed Nondisclosure Indemnification Agreement for:

4.2.2.1. All confidential information that Offeror represents, with legal basis, is exempt from disclosure pursuant to the California Public Records Act, including PI (Personal Information), PII (Personally Identifiable Information), or PHI (Protected Health Information);

4.2.2.2. Any proprietary or other information Offeror represents, with legal basis, is exempt from disclosure under the California Public Records Act and wishes to protect from disclosure.

4.2.3. The “CONFIDENTIAL/PROPRIETARY” exhibit must be clearly labeled with all pages marked as “CONFIDENTIAL/PROPRIETARY.”

4.2.4. Offeror should reference material in the “CONFIDENTIAL/PROPRIETARY” exhibit where it is needed to respond to a Submittal Item through citation to the “CONFIDENTIAL/PROPRIETARY” exhibit (for example “See response 1 contained within the ‘CONFIDENTIAL/PROPRIETARY’ exhibit for staff Social Security numbers”).

4.2.5. If the County determines that a submission improperly designates information as confidential or proprietary, the County may, at its sole discretion: (i) deem the information releasable; (ii) declare the submission non-conforming/non-responsive; (iii) remove such information, or (iv) take any other appropriate action. (Note: Pricing and Terms and Conditions are generally not confidential under the California Public Records Act).

5. QUOTE EVALUATION

5.1. Evaluations may consider factors such as technical merit, experience, capacity, history of Offeror compliance, availability, price, and more to determine the quote(s) that provide the best value to the County.

5.2. During evaluation, the County may appropriately consider the sustainability and social, human health, environmental, and economic impact of Offeror’s proposed products and/or approach to providing goods and/or services, in accordance with Board Policy B-67. Therefore, Offerors are encouraged to include relevant information in their quotes, to the degree related to the goods or services sought.

5.3. During evaluation, the County may appropriately evaluate the cultural competency of Offeror and Offeror’s proposed approach to providing goods and services. Therefore, Offerors are encouraged to include relevant information in their quotes, to the degree related to the goods or services sought.

5.4. When evaluating an Offeror’s cost or pricing, the County may also consider the effect of the quote on the overall total cost to the County.

5.5. When evaluating Offeror’s quote, the County will appropriately consider the proposed purchase, acquisition, or use of goods, products, and materials produced in the United States, in accordance with 2 CFR § 200.322. Offeror should include information relevant under section 200.322 in its quote in order to be considered for such preference during evaluation.

6. COUNTY COMMITMENT

6.1. This RFQ does not commit the County to award a contract, nor does it commit the County to pay any of

Offeror’s costs incurred in the preparation or submission of the quote. Further, Offeror shall not incur any reimbursable cost in anticipation of a contract award.

6.2. Neither Offeror nor any of its representatives shall have any claims whatsoever against the County or any of its respective officials, agents, or employees arising out of or relating to this RFQ or these procedures (other than those arising under a definitive contract with Offeror in accordance with the terms thereof).

6.3. The County reserves the right to separately procure the same or similar goods or services.

6.4. The County may withhold all information regarding this procurement until after negotiations are complete, including, but not limited to: the number of quotes received; the identity of Offeror(s); the content of quotes; the County’s evaluation and results thereof. Information releasable after the conclusion of negotiations is subject to the disclosure requirements and withholding exemptions of the California Public Records Act.

6.5. Pursuant to County Charter §§ 703.10 and 916, award of a contract resulting from this RFQ may be subject to the County’s requirement to determine that the services can be provided more economically and efficiently by an independent contractor than by persons employed in the Classified Service.

6.6. In the event that an Offeror is involved in a merger, acquisition, or other change in control, the County reserves the right to award a contract to a resulting entity.

7. DILIGENCE AND DUTY TO INQUIRE

7.1. Should Offeror find discrepancies in or omissions from, or be in doubt as to the meaning of, the RFQ or related documents, Offeror shall have a duty to submit a Question to the County.

7.2. Offerors are expected to perform reasonable due diligence with regard to this RFQ and the work required, including, but not limited to, information that is publicly or otherwise reasonably available and, if applicable, information that can be obtained during a site visit (including verification of measurements, conditions, and other attributes). Neither the selected Offeror(s), nor any Offerors, shall be entitled to any price adjustment or other relief based upon information that was discovered or should have been discovered through due diligence.

7.3. The County makes no representation or warranty, express or implied, as to the accuracy or completeness of any diligence material or other information provided by the County or any of its agents, representatives, contractors, or consultants. Such information may reflect good faith assumptions, estimates, or projections, which may or may not prove to be correct.

7.4. Offeror should not rely upon oral statements made or explanations given by the County, including any oral responses to Questions or other inquiries. No prior, current, or post award communication(s) with any officer, agent, or employee of the County shall affect or modify any terms or requirements of this RFQ, except as explicitly provided for in this RFQ.

8. OFFEROR COMMUNICATIONS

8.1. All communications from Offeror (including its employees, agents, and representatives) to the County or its officers and employees (including consultants working on or assisting with this procurement), related to this RFQ or Offeror’s quote, must be directed in writing exclusively to the Contracting Officer, unless otherwise authorized in writing by the Contracting Officer. Offerors shall not communicate with or attempt to contact any other County personnel about this solicitation, except as otherwise allowed for in this RFQ or by law. Any improper contact may, at the County’s sole discretion, cause Offeror to be removed from consideration for contract award.

8.2. If Offeror issues any public announcement or otherwise engages in communication that, in the County’s sole determination, compromises the integrity of this RFQ process or attempts to restrain competition, Offeror may be removed from consideration for award.

8.3. Audio and/or video recording of presentations, discussions, negotiations, , or other communications with the County regarding this RFQ are prohibited, unless specifically authorized in writing by the Contracting Officer.

9. SOLICITING EMPLOYEES

9.1. Until contract award, Offerors shall not, directly or indirectly, solicit any employee of the County to leave the County’s employ in order to accept employment with Offeror, its affiliates, actual or prospective contractors, or any person acting in concert with Offeror without prior written approval of the County’s Contracting Officer. This paragraph does not prevent the employment by Offeror of a County employee who has initiated contact with Offeror.

10. PROHIBITED CONTRACTS AND SUBCONTRACTS

10.1. In accordance with Section 67 of the San Diego County Administrative Code, the County shall not contract with, and shall reject any quote submitted by, the person or entities specified below, unless the Board of Supervisors finds that special circumstances exist which justify the approval of such contract:

10.1.1. Persons employed by the County or of public agencies for which the Board of Supervisors is the governing body;

10.1.2. Profit-making firms or businesses in which employees described in subsection 11.1.1 serve as officers, principals, partners, or major shareholders;

10.1.3. Persons who, within the immediately preceding twelve (12) months, came within the provisions of subsection 11.1.1 and who (i) were employed in positions of substantial responsibility in the area of service to be performed by the contract; or, (ii) participated in any way in developing the contract or its service specifications; and

10.1.4. Profit-making firms or businesses in which the former employees described in subsection 11.1.3 serve as officers, principals, partners, or major shareholders.

10.2. Per Board Policy A-79, a successful Offeror that is a non-profit corporation shall not subcontract any work under the agreement with a related for-profit subcontractor where an interlocking directorate, management, or ownership relationship exists, unless specifically authorized by the Board of Supervisors.

10.3. Offeror certifies that, if awarded a contract under this RFQ, such contract will be in compliance with Sections 11.1 and 11.2 above. Offeror shall promptly notify the County of any change in circumstance affecting these provisions.

11. CALIFORNIA REVENUE & TAXATION CODE § 18662

11.1. In compliance with California Revenue and Taxation Code § 18662, if Offeror is a non-resident of

California (out-of-state invoices) that receives California source income and has not completed Franchise Tax Board Form 590, there may be a backup withholding on all payments. Fifteen (15) business days prior to the first payment from the County, new suppliers or suppliers with expired forms or forms with incorrect information must submit new forms to the County (forms are available from the Franchise Tax Board website listed below).

11.2. Under certain circumstances, Offerors may be eligible for reduced or waived nonresident withholding. If Offeror has already received a waiver or a reduced withholding response from the State of California and the response remains valid, Offeror should submit the response to the County in lieu of the forms. Failure to submit the required forms will result in withholding of payments. Offerors should access the Franchise Tax Board websites, listed below, for tax forms and relevant information regarding non-resident withholding, including waivers or reductions. The County will not give Offerors any tax advice. It is recommended that Offerors speak with their tax advisers and/or the State of California for guidance.

Franchise Tax Board Websites:

https://www.ftb.ca.gov https://www.ftb.ca.gov/forms/search/

11.3. If selected for award, Offeror must submit applicable forms to the Auditor & Controller via fax, at (858) 694-2060, or mail originals to: County of San Diego, 5530 Overland Avenue, Suite 410, San Diego, CA 92123. The P.O. Number or Contract Number (if available) and “California Revenue and Taxation Code § 18662” must appear on fax cover sheet and/or the outside of the mailing envelope.

12. W-9 FORM

12.1. If selected for award, Offeror must complete and submit a W-9 form if a current form is not on file with the County.

13. PREVAILING WAGE

13.1. The County’s public works projects are subject to compliance monitoring and enforcement by the

California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR), in accordance with Labor Code § 1771.4(a)(1). A contractor or subcontractor shall not be qualified to bid (or otherwise submit an offer) on, be listed in an offer subject to the requirements of Section 4104 of the Public Contract Code, or engage in the performance of any contract for public work, as defined in Labor Code § 1720, et seq., unless currently registered and qualified to perform public work pursuant to Labor Code § 1725.5, all as more particularly described in Labor Code § 1771.1(a). An Offeror who is ultimately selected shall post all notices required by and pursuant to Labor Code § 1771.4(a)(2) at the job site, whether or not the County also posts these notices.

https://www.ftb.ca.gov/ https://www.ftb.ca.gov/forms/search/

C. SUBMITTAL ITEMS

Offeror’s response to these Submittal Items shall be no more than five (5) pages.

1. EXHIBIT 1 - REQUIRED FORMS

1.1 Submit a completed and signed Offeror’s Cover Page (PC600) form

• Required for all Offerors

• located at:

https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC600_dpc_Offerors_Cover_Page.pdf

1.2 Submit a completed and signed Representations and Certifications form (PC601)

• Required for all Offerors

• located at:

https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC601_dpc_Reps_and_Certs.pdf

1.3 Submit a completed and signed Small-Local Business Self-Certification Form (PC610)

• All Offerors are encouraged to complete this form to support County data collection.

• located at:

https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC610_dpc_Small_Local_Self_Cert.pdf

1.4 Submit a completed and signed Nondisclosure Indemnification Agreement (PC620) (if applicable).

• Required if submitting Confidential/Proprietary Information (see RFQ Instructions and Rules section 4.2)

• located at:

https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC620_dpc_Nondisclosure_Indemnity.pdf

2. EXHIBIT 2 - PROGRAM/TECHNICAL EXHIBIT

2A Experience

2.1. Confirm (YES/NO) that the Offeror has experience providing child occupancy safety seat program education as described in the Scope of Work.

YES NO

2.1.1. If YES, please describe Offeror’s experience working with:

2.1.1.1. Child occupancy safety program safety education and distribution of child passenger safety seats.

2.1.1.2. Conducting events in communities with high rates of child passenger injuries and fatalities, and tailored to population of parents and guardians, public sector employees and residents in economically and historically disadvantaged communities.

2.1.2. If NO, please describe how Offeror will provide the services described in the Scope of Work despite not having this experience and how this experience will be obtained.

2.2. Confirm (YES/NO) that the Offeror has experience providing the same or similar services as described in the Statement of Work including but not limited to coordinating community events (internal and external) meetings, outreach and engagement, establishing and leveraging partnerships, and provide equitable and accessible opportunities for child safety seats with the intent of improving healthy behaviors that impact community.

YES NO

2.2.1. If YES, please describe Offeror’s experience with:

2.2.1.1. coordinating and convening meetings

2.2.1.2. conducting outreach and engagement

2.2.1.3. establishing and leveraging partnerships

2.2.1.4. providing equitable and accessible opportunities https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC600_dpc_Offerors_Cover_Page.pdf https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC601_dpc_Reps_and_Certs.pdf https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC610_dpc_Small_Local_Self_Cert.pdf https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/dam/sdc/purchasing/docs/PC620_dpc_Nondisclosure_Indemnity.pdf

2.2.1.5. improving healthy behaviors that impact the community

2.3. Provide the following:

2.3.1. A staffing chart that describes the Offeror’s program approach and identifies program staff positions (by name and title, if known) and reporting responsibility.

2.3.2. Job descriptions for staff who will be working directly on this project.

2.3.3. Resumes of staff who will be working directly on this project. In-kind staff should be included.

(Note: Resumes are not included in the 7-page limit).

2.4. Confirm (YES/NO) that the Offeror has experience with developing and coordinating presentations and workshops.

YES NO

2.4.1. If YES, please describe Offeror’s experience developing and coordinating trainings, including:

2.4.1.1. If yes, include how many years of experience Offeror has developing materials.

2.4.1.2. If yes, provide an example of presentation materials that have been developed and used for a program of similar size and scope.

2.5. Confirm (YES/NO) that the Offeror has experience designing a program with an equity lens.

YES NO

2.5.1. If YES, please briefly describe your experience.

2.6. Provide two (2) business references for whom your organization has provided services to of a similar scope to the County requirements. (Note: References will not be included in page limit).

2.6.1. Customer/Agency

2.6.2. Dates of services provided

2.6.3. Contact Name, Position

2.6.4. Contact Business Email/Business telephone number

The County will make reasonable attempts to contact any reference, and the inability to contact a reference may be treated as an unfavorable reference for evaluation purposes. An unfavorable response is a response from a listed reference stating they would not enlist the company to perform services again in the future, or comments provided that the County deems to be substantially negative or reflective of substandard service.

The County reserves the right to contact County departments or any other agency for which a company has previously performed under contract. The County also reserves the right to make its own inquiries to other sources for which services have been performed but are not listed. The County may, at its sole discretion, disqualify a vendor if the requested number of references stated is not provided or responses are considered unfavorable.

2B - Program Delivery

2.7. Describe the Offeror’s program design and/or strategy to achieve the goals, objectives and requirements of

Exhibit A – Scope of Work (SOW). Provide a narrative description of preliminary timeline for completing all deliverables/tasks in the Process Objectives of the SOW.

2.8. Describe how the Offeror will expand the outreach of the child passenger safety seat program to new potential participants and to raise awareness of existing services using methods to engage a diverse representation of each community. Please include threshold language capabilities or ways to address translation or interpretation needs.

2.9. Describe the Offeror’s plan for conducting outreach and engagement meetings and outreach events, as applicable.

2.10. Describe the Offeror’s plan for establishing and leveraging community partnerships.

2.11. Confirm (YES/NO) the Offeror has existing collaborative partners throughout all six HHSA-designated service regions that would bring experience and/or resources to this process.

YES NO

2.11.1. If YES, briefly describe:

2.11.1.1. A sample of past activities that have been carried out with collaborative partners.

2.11.1.2. Strategies for leveraging partnerships to further the objectives and goals of this program.

3. EXHIBIT 3 – COST/PRICE EXHIBIT

3.1. Use Exhibit C – Payment Schedule to provide a proposed cost per unit for each deliverable. Services will be compensated on a fixed price basis. Offeror shall complete and submit the Exhibit C, attached to this solicitation for the contract term October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027 and option year 1 October 1, 2027

– September 30, 2028.

3.2. Confirm (YES/NO) that Offeror understands that prices are firm fixed for the term of this contract and cannot be increased at any time. In addition to this, please confirm Offeror understands this is the only compensation Offeror will receive for work performed, and shall be all inclusive over any overhead costs, or items not itemized in Exhibit C.

YES NO

3.3.

4. EXHIBIT 4 – ACCEPTANCE OF TERMS AND CONDITIONS

4.1. Confirm (YES/NO) that Offeror has read, understands, and accepts the Exhibit A - Statement of Work

(SOW).

YES NO

4.1.1. If NO, please provide proposed redlines.

4.2. Confirm (YES/NO) Offeror’s acceptance of the terms and conditions of the County Contract template attached herein.

YES NO

4.1.1 If “NO,” provide a detailed list of exceptions to the terms and conditions, the nature of its concern, and what terms the Offeror is willing to accept.

Note: The Offeror will be deemed to have accepted any terms and conditions of the Contract to which it does not take exception to. The County may, as part of its evaluation process, conclude that exceptions are so numerous and/or material as to make Offeror’s response to the solicitation unacceptable.

4.3. Confirm (YES/NO) that Offeror has reviewed and agrees to the Insurance and Bonding Requirements listed in Exhibit B.

YES NO

4.3.1. If NO, please provide proposed redlines. (Note: Non-acceptance of County insurance requirements is evaluated as unfavorable and will be rated as such).

4.4. Confirm that Offeror is able to comply with the Background Check and Subsequent Arrest Notifications

Requirements listed in the Contract Agreement, Paragraph 16.21.

YES NO

4.5. Byrd Anti-Lobbying Amendment certification: Confirm (YES/NO). Offeror certifies that it and its subcontractors will not and have not used federal appropriated funds to pay any person or organization for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a member of Congress, officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a member of Congress in connection with obtaining any federal contract, grant or any other award covered by 31 U.S.C. § 1352. List as a disclosure any lobbying with non-federal funds that takes place in connection with obtaining any federal award by Offeror or Offeror’s subcontractors.

YES NO

4. EXHIBIT 4 – ACCEPTANCE OF TERMS AND CONDITIONS

4.2 Confirm acceptance “YES/NO” of the County of San Diego’s Draft Agreement (including insurance requirements):

YES NO

4.2.1 If “NO,” provide a detailed list of exceptions to the terms and conditions, the nature of its concern, and what terms the Offeror is willing to accept.

Note: The Offeror will be deemed to have accepted any terms and conditions of the Contract to which it does not take exception to. The County may, as part of its evaluation process, conclude that exceptions are so numerous and/or material as to make Offeror’s response to the solicitation unacceptable.

5. EXHIBIT 5 – CONFIDENTIAL PROPRIETARY

5.1 Include any Confidential/Proprietary Information in this exhibit, in accordance with RFQ Instructions and Rules section 4.2

D. REQUIRED FORMS

(RESERVED)

E. STATEMENT OF WORK

1. SCOPE OF WORK/PURPOSE

The purpose of the Child Occupancy Safety (Keep ’em Safe -KES) program is to support the development of equitable, resilient and thriving communities via enhanced child passenger safety through a traffic safety education program and distribution of child passenger safety seats throughout the county of San Diego.

KES shall incorporate strategies such as hybrid education, a public relations campaign, child safety seat check-up events, and strategic partnerships with community groups involved in transportation and child passenger safety. Program activities are to be conducted in communities with high rates of child passenger injuries and fatalities, and tailored to populations of parents and guardians, public sector employees, and residents in economically and historically disadvantaged communities. The program is designed to provide equitable and accessible opportunities for child occupant safety education and administration of no-cost child safety seats with the intent of improving healthy behaviors that impact community health and public safety.

2. BACKGROUND INFORMATION

2.1 Every day across America, parents and caregivers drive young children around town, to and from school, daycare, and the store in car seats and boosters. Yet nearly half of all car seats are installed incorrectly.

Injuries and deaths resulting from car accidents have devastating impacts on lives and communities, especially when children are involved. Motor vehicle crashes continue to be one of the leading causes of death for children ages 1 to 13 in the United States according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA). With just over 13,605 traffic collisions reported to the San Diego Police Department in 2024, ensuring the proper use and installation of car seats and boosters is essential.

2.2 When installed correctly, car seats and boosters are one of the easiest ways to keep children safe. NHTSA estimates that controlling for driver seat belt use and the child's seating position, car seats can reduce the risk of fatal injury in a crash by 71 percent for infants and by 54 percent for toddlers. In addition, a Centers for Disease Control (CDC) surveillance summary highlights proper car seat, booster seat, and seat belt use among children prevents injuries, decreases deaths, and reduces hospital charges.

2.3 The California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) distributes federal funding apportioned to California under the National Highway Safety Act of 1970 (NHSA) and the Safe, Accountable and Flexible Efficiency Transportation Equity Act - A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU). Occupant Protection includes funding for programs designed to increase seat belt use through the promotion of innovative public awareness and education strategies.

2.4 The County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency, Community Action Partnership (CAP) is the region’s designated Community Action Agency, administering San Diego County’s federal Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) allocation through development and oversight of programs that empower economically disadvantaged individuals, families and communities to achieve their highest level of self-sufficiency. Through contracted service providers, CAP has administered the Keep 'Em Safe (KES) program since the late 1990's; which has allowed for the opportunity for continued expansion of knowledge, understanding, and collaboration around the issue of child passenger safety education as a strategy to reduce preventable injuries and deaths for over twenty years. CAP cultivates partnerships in an effort to strengthen the collective impact surrounding anti-poverty efforts in the Region, which is in alignment with its mission to ‘advance pathways for people, local businesses and communities facing barriers to prosperity so they can thrive’.

2.5 Live Well San Diego Vision: The County of San Diego, Health and Human Service Agency (HHSA), supports the Live Well San Diego vision of Building Better Health, Living Safely, and Thriving. Live Well San Diego developed by the County of San Diego, is a comprehensive, innovative regional vision that combines the efforts of partners inside and outside County government to help all residents be healthy, safe, and thriving. All HHSA partners and contractors, to the extent feasible, are expected to advance this vision. Building Better Health focuses on improving the health of residents and supporting healthy choices.

Living Safely seeks to ensure residents are protected from crime and abuse, neighborhoods are safe, and communities are resilient to disasters and emergencies. Thriving focuses on promoting a region in which residents can enjoy the highest quality of life. Information about Live Well San Diego can be found on its website dedicated to the vision: http://www.LiveWellSD.org This program supports the Live Well San Diego vision by aiming to reduce child passenger injuries and fatalities in San Diego County by educating a variety of populations and audiences about child passenger safety and distribution of no-cost child safety seats.

3. Goals and Objectives

3.1 Goals. Contractor shall provide the services described herein to accomplish the following goals:

3.1.1 Reduce the number of persons killed in traffic crashes.

3.1.2 Reduce the number of persons injured in traffic crashes.

3.1.3 Reduce the number of vehicle occupants under the age of eight (8) years killed in traffic collisions.

3.1.4 Reduce the number of vehicle occupants under the age of eight (8) years injured in traffic collisions.

3.1.5 Increase the usage of child passenger safety seats and restraints (seat belts).

3.2 Process Objectives. Contractor shall achieve the following objectives during the contract period and as outlined within the Exhibit C Payment Schedule:

3.2.1 Check-Up Events: Host and/or attend a minimum of sixty (60) events during the initial contract period (October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2027) and a minimum of sixty (60) events during option year (FFY 27/28), high-visibility seat belt and child safety restraint check-up events for parents/caregivers and their children. Events can be conducted directly through the Contractor and/or other community partners and organizations.

3.2.2 Parent and Caregiver Classes: Conduct a minimum of fifty-three (110) during the initial contract period (October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2027) and a minimum of one hundred and ten (110) during option year (FFY 27/28), safety education presentations for parents and caregivers.

3.2.3 Traffic Safety Fairs/Community Events: Host and/or attend a minimum of seven (9) during the initial contract period (October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2027) and a minimum of nine

(9) during option year (FFY 27/28), traffic safety fairs and/or community with an effort to inform and promote safety seat education for event participants

3.2.4 Safety Seat Distribution: Distribute a minimum of one hundred and thirty-seven (100) during the initial contract period (October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2027) and one hundred

(100) during option year (FFY 27/28,) OTS funded child safety seats to low-income individuals or families.

3.2.4.1 In addition to the safety seats distributed in Section 3.2.4 funded through OTS, Contractor shall distribute two hundred (200) safety seats during the initial contract period (October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2027) and a minimum of (200) during option year (FFY 27/28). Additional safety seats will be funded via CSBG and/or similar funding and shall include the oversight, storage and management of all child safety seat distribution (including those in Section 3.2.4) for the program in the unit cost. Safety seats shall be available throughout the contract year.

3.2.5 Roll Call Trainings: Conduct a minimum of ten (10) “roll call” training sessions during initial contract period (October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2027) and during option year (FFY 27/28) that that increase occupant protection awareness and teach law enforcement personnel various occupant protections, including child passenger safety. Contractor shall collaborate with local law enforcement agencies to conduct the training sessions.

3.2.6 Booster Seat Challenges: Conduct a minimum of two (2) booster seat challenges during initial contract period (October 1, 2026 through September 30, 2027) and during option year (FFY 27/28) at Elementary schools.

http://www.livewellsd.org/

3.2.7 Teen Parent Education Classes: Conduct a minimum of two (10) during initial contract period (October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2027) and ten (10) during option year (FFY 27/28), child passenger safety education classes for teen parents.

3.2.8 Community Education Classes: Conduct a minimum of seven (5) during initial contract period (October 1, 2026 through September 30, 2027) and five (5) during option year (FFY 27/28), four (4)-hour child passenger safety classes for community members working with children.

3.2.9 Individual Check Up Events: Conduct a minimum of five (5) during initial contract period (October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2027) and five (5) during option year (FFY 27/28) individual child safety seat checkup by appointment to promote correct usage, with an effort to reach parents or caregivers. Car seat checkers must be NHTSA-Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians (CPST).

4. Target Population and Geographic Area

4.1 Target Population. Contractor shall provide to the residents of San Diego County, with targeted outreach to the following populations, or other populations as directed by the COR:

4.1.1. Low-income individuals/families

4.1.2. Underrepresented communities including, but not limited to: refugees, the military, and Native

Americans

4.1.3. Public workers including but not limited to: early-learning staff, child protective services staff, public health workers, foster parents, social workers, public health nurses, community outreach workers, public safety workers and others

4.1.4. One hundred (100) of the two hundred (200) safety seats to be distributed in Option Year One must be distributed to individuals or families who meet CSBG income eligibility with household income not exceeding 200% of the FLP. The current Federal Poverty guideline can be found on the following websites, http://aspe.hhs.gov/poverty and at the state website https://www.csd.ca.gov/Pages/CSBG-Income-Eligibility.aspx

4.2 Geographical/Regional Service Area(s). Contractor shall administer and provide services to residents within all six HHSA-Designated Service Regions (see Attachment 1 – HHSA Regional Zip Codes).

4.3 Location(s) and Hours.

4.3.1. Contractor’s location shall be accessible by public transportation and in compliance with

Americans with Disability Act (ADA) and California State Administrative Code Title 24.

4.3.2. Program services shall be open for business a minimum of forty (40) hours per week, during normal business hours, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST.

4.3.3. Contractor shall not change the hours of operation or the location from the address below without prior written approval from the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR). COR can at any time conduct a site visit(s), inspect facility plans, and approve the location an any budget and/or services delivery impact which may result from the proposed move to a new location/facility.

4.3.4. Program Location: [Offeror to propose]

5. DEFINITIONS

5.1. Child Passenger Safety Restraint/Child Passenger Safety Seats. An infant or child passenger restraint system that meets the federal standards for crash-tested restraint systems as set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Examples are: rear-facing only safety seat, convertible safety seat, forward-facing only safety seat, high-back booster seat, backless booster seat, safety vest/harness.

5.2. Seat Belt. The webbing, anchor and buckle system that restrains the occupant and/or child safety seat in the vehicle.

5.3. Certified NHTSA Technician. An individual who has become certified by completing a NHTSA-approved for ty (40)-hour National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) training course and is approved to teach child passenger safety seat educational and instructional http://aspe.hhs.gov/poverty https://www.csd.ca.gov/Pages/CSBG-Income-Eligibility.aspx https://www.dgs.ca.gov/DSA/Resources/Page-Content/Resources-List-Folder/Title-24#%40ViewBag.JumpTo https://www.dgs.ca.gov/DSA/Resources/Page-Content/Resources-List-Folder/Title-24#%40ViewBag.JumpTo classes, distribute and install car seats, and inspect already installed seats. The technician must attend check-up events to receive re-certification.

5.4. Convertible Child Safety Seat. A child restraint that can be used in more than one (1) mode; usually rear facing for infants and forward facing for toddlers. Infant Seats. For the purposes of this service, infant seats are child passenger safety seats including, but not limited to, infant carriers and convertible seats for infants zero (0) to thirty (30) pounds.

5.5. Physical Inspection. An inspection of a child safety restraint by a certified NHTSA technician to ensure proper usage and installation.

6 Safety Education. An education program that includes, but is not limited to, education on the proper installation and use of a child passenger restraint system for children of all ages, seatbelt usage, air bag safety, dangers of leaving children unattended in a vehicle, and awareness of SB 255 (Kaitlyn's Law).

6.1. Refugee. Individuals who are unable to return to their country of origin due to persecution or a well-founded fear of persecution on account of race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.

6.2. Roll Call. An education model used by law enforcement agencies at the start of each shift to brief officers regarding important information needed for the day. Utilizing this model allows for trainees (law enforcement personnel) to learn key concepts and ideas in shorter windows of time, which increases engagement and retention.

6.3. Outreach. Building partnerships and leveraging resources that connects with and benefits the target populations. Activities may include sharing program information by attending meetings, sending to email listservs, and/or providing presentations to County departments, Collaboratives, or other public, private or nonprofit organizations, when appropriate.

7 Low-Income. Individual or family that is at two hundred percent (200%) of the federal poverty level or below.

7.1. Booster Seat Challenge. An education program specific to coordinating and working with elementary schools to increase child passenger safety awareness and proper usage. Activities may include but not limited to: booster seat check-up event, safety education classes, child safety seat distribution, etc.

6. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR SERVICE DELIVERY

6.1 Contractor shall ensure that staff providing direct services are certified National Highway

Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) Technicians.

6.2 Certified NHTSA Technician. An individual who has become certified by completing a NHTSA-approved for ty (40)-hour National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) training course and is approved to teach child passenger safety seat educational and instructional classes, distribute and install car seats, and inspect already installed seats. The technician must attend check-up events to receive re-certification.

6.3 County of San Diego Media and Communications, Materials, Publications, Presentations Guidelines:

6.3.1 Contractor shall ensure that all public announcements, webpages, materials, publications, surveys, and PowerPoint presentations shared with the community identify that the services are supported under contract with the County of San Diego. The Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) and Live Well San Diego logos shall be included in written materials according to HHSA guidelines.

6.3.2 Contractor shall submit copies of all public announcements, webpages, materials, publications, and surveys, related to the contracted services for COR pre-approval prior to dissemination.

6.3.3 Presentation materials may be requested by the COR for review prior to release.

6.4 Roll Call. An education model used by law enforcement agencies at the start of each shift to brief officers regarding important information needed for the day. Utilizing this model allows for trainees (law enforcement personnel) to learn key concepts and ideas in shorter windows of time, which increases engagement and retention.

6.5 Outreach. Building partnerships and leveraging resources that connects with and benefits the target populations. Activities may include sharing program information by attending meetings, sending to email listservs, and/or providing presentations to County departments, Collaboratives, or other public, private or nonprofit organizations, when appropriate.

6.6 Low-Income. Individual or family that is at two hundred percent (200%) of the federal poverty level or below.

6.7 Facilities. Contractor shall provide all facilities, facility management, supplies, and other resources necessary to establish and operate the program.

6.8 Transporting Minors. Contractor shall not use taxicabs to transport unescorted minors (individuals under the age of 18) who receive services funded by the County of San Diego.

6.9 Bilingual Access. Contractor shall identify program staff that can provide bilingual/bicultural services to individuals who need or prefer to communicate in a language other than English. If there is no staff that can perform this function, Contractor shall identify program staff that can facilitate provision of bilingual/bicultural services to individuals by establishing alternate methods to ensure that appropriate language services are available.

6.10 Cultural Competency. Contractor shall demonstrate cultural competency in their program design to ensure staff is culturally competent to serve clients with diverse backgrounds. Contractor shall address specific language/cultural needs and shall ensure program staff is culturally competent to serve diverse backgrounds of clients.

7. SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS FOR SERVICE DELIVERY

7.1 Contractor shall ensure all services and program materials distributed to the public and program participants are culturally- and linguistically appropriate and are relevant to child passenger safety laws and general child passenger safety information.

7.2 Child Passenger Safety Restraint/Child Passenger Safety Seats. An infant or child passenger restraint system that meets the federal standards for crash-tested restraint systems as set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Examples are: rear-facing only safety seat, convertible safety seat, forward-facing only safety seat, high-back booster seat, backless booster seat, safety vest/harness.

7.3 Seat Belt. The webbing, anchor and buckle system that restrains the occupant and/or child safety seat in the vehicle.

7.4 Convertible Child Safety Seat. A child restraint that can be used in more than one (1) mode; usually rear facing for infants and forward facing for toddlers. Infant Seats. For the purposes of this service, infant seats are child passenger safety seats including, but not limited to, infant carriers and convertible seats for infants zero (0) to thirty (30) pounds.

7.5 Physical Inspection. An inspection of a child safety restraint by a certified NHTSA technician to ensure proper usage and installation.

7.6 Safety Education. An education program that includes, but is not limited to, education on the proper installation and use of a child passenger restraint system for children of all ages, seatbelt usage, air bag safety, dangers of leaving children unattended in a vehicle, and awareness of SB 255 (Kaitlyn's Law).Booster Seat Challenge. An education program specific to coordinating and working with elementary schools to increase child passenger safety awareness and proper usage.

Activities may include but not limited to: booster seat check-up event, safety education classes, child safety seat distribution, etc.

7.7 Contractor shall conduct child passenger safety check-up events as described above in Paragraph 3.2.1 shall include the following:

7.7.1 Physical inspections and assessments of participants’ existing child safety seats and seat belt usage.

7.7.2 Instruction on the proper use of safety restraint systems, and demonstration of the proper installation of incorrectly installed child safety seats or on new safety seats provided at no cost, using certified NHTSA Technicians.

7.7.3 Distribution of safety seats at no cost, as determined necessary by inspection and assessment by a certified NHTSA Technician.

7.7.4 Contractor shall participate at the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) discretion in any County of San Diego-sponsored child passenger safety event.

7.7.5 Contractor shall collaborate with community-based organizations to ensure participation by low-income and underrepresented communities.

7.8 Contractor shall provide safety education presentations as described above in Paragraph 3.2.2 that shall include, at a minimum, the following:

7.8.1 Kaitlyn’s Law (SB255).

7.8.2 Air bag safety.

7.8.3 Injury prevention and crash dynamics.

7.8.4 Lower anchors and tethers for children.

7.8.5 Seat belt systems.

7.8.6 Car seats and booster seats.

7.8.7 Children in rear-facing car seats.

7.8.8 Children in forward-facing car seats.

7.8.9 Children in booster seats and seat belts.

7.8.10 Child passenger safety (CPS) in other vehicles.

7.8.11 Appropriate car seats and booster seats by vehicle type.

7.8.12 Determining the…