RFR Amendments - Cumulative as of 5.26.22.docx

Amendments to Request for Response RFR Title: Congregate Care Network RFR Number: DCF CCNET22

Department of Children and Families Amendments to Request for Response

RFR Title: Congregate Care Network RFR Number: DCF CCNET22

Amendment #7 May 26, 2022

The Request for Response for Congregate Care Network issued by the Department of Children and Families on February 16, 2021 shall be amended as follows:

1. Section 8.09 Start-Up Costs The Department may enter into separate contracts for start-up costs for Emergency Residences or Intensive Emergency Residences programs. Such contracts will have Maximum Obligation Amounts. This is determined on a case-by-case basis at the sole discretion of the Department.

Section 8.09 Start-Up Costs is amended as follows:

The Department may enter into separate contracts for start-up costs for Emergency Residences or Intensive Emergency Residences programs.

On a case-by-case basis, the Department, at its sole discretion, may consider awarding start-up for models other than those listed above. In those cases, special consideration will be given to providers registered with the Commonwealth’s Small Business Purchasing Program and/or Supplier Diversity Program.

Such contracts will have Maximum Obligation Amounts. This is determined on a case-by-case basis at the sole discretion of the Department.

Amendment #6 April 27, 2021

The Request for Response for Congregate Care Network issued by the Department of Children and Families on February 16, 2021 shall be amended as follows:

2. Section 10.05 Electronic Response Package Submission Format Inside of zip files, Bidders shall use the following naming conventions:

· Insert Bidder’s organization’s name for the italicized placeholder “Bidder;” and

· Insert the proposed program model name for the italicized placeholder, “Program Model Name.”

· For example, the file name “Program Model Name Response Sheet 1 Bidder would be – Community Treatment Residence Response Sheet 1 XYZ Agency.doc

Section 10.05 Electronic Response Package Submission Format is amended as follows:

Inside of zip files, Bidders shall use the following naming conventions:

· Insert Bidder’s organization’s name for the italicized placeholder “Bidder;” and

· Insert the proposed program model name for the italicized placeholder, “Program Model Name.”

· For example, the file name “Program Model Name Response Sheet 1 Bidder would be – Community Treatment Residence Response Sheet 1 XYZ Agency.doc

· Bidders may shorten file names by using acronyms in place of the full Program Model Name and using an abbreviation for the full Bidder’s organization name.

· For example, the file name “Program Model Name Response Sheet 1 Bidder would be, without changes, Community Treatment Residence Response Sheet 1 XYZ Agency.doc. Using an acronym for the Program Model Name and an abbreviation for the Bidder’s organization name, the file name would be CTR Response Sheet 1 XYZ.doc.

· For Program Model Names, use the first letter of each word in the Program Model Name (i.e., Community Treatment Residence as CTR; Specialty Treatment Residence as STR; Specialty Treatment Residence CSEC as STRCSEC; Intensive Treatment Residence as ITR; and so on for all the Program Model Names.)

· Even if the full Bidder’s organization name is abbreviated in the file name, the Bidder must use the full Bidder’s organization name, not the abbreviation, in the Bidder Information section on the RFR Response Summary Form, RFR Program Model Checklist, Regional Service Resolution Group Checklist and Shared Space Checklist.

Amendment #5 April 14, 2021

The Request for Response for Congregate Care Network issued by the Department of Children and Families on February 16, 2021 shall be amended as follows:

1. Section 7.09(A) Non-Competitive Method These models are being acquired using a Rolling Enrollment Procurement. Bidders may apply until December 31, 2032. The Department will be accepting additional responses after the initial contract award. All Bidders submitting a response after April 12, 2021 must notify Andrea Cosgrove at DCF.CCNET22@mass.gov before submitting a bid.

· Community Treatment Residence

· Specialty Treatment Residence

· Specialty Treatment Residence: CSEC

· Intensive Treatment Residence

· Medically Complex Residence

· Medically Complex Behavioral Residence

· Youth and Young Adult Group Residence

· Youth and Young Adult Supported Living Community

· Young Adult Supported Living Section 7.09(A) Non-Competitive Method is amended as follows:

These models are being acquired using a Rolling Enrollment Procurement. Bidders may apply until December 31, 2032. The Department will be accepting additional responses after the initial contract award. All Bidders submitting a response after April 12, 2021 must notify Andrea Cosgrove at DCF.CCNET22@mass.gov before submitting a bid.

· Community Treatment Residence

· Specialty Treatment Residence

· Specialty Treatment Residence: CSEC

· Intensive Treatment Residence

· Medically Complex Residence

· Medically Complex Behavioral Residence

· Youth and Young Adult Group Residence

· Youth and Young Adult Supported Living Community

· Young Adult Supported Living

· Residential School

2. Appendix B Specialty Treatment Residence Section 4.05 Assessment

Timeframes

· Screenings for emergency medical and behavioral health needs

· Immediately at intake

· Screening for safety and risk factors

· No later than 8 hours after intake

· Initial, interim Treatment Plan, including initial Behavior Support and Safety Plan

· No later than 24 hours after intake

· The Behavior Support and Safety Plan shall include planning for safety should a youth run from the program.

· Youth Readiness Assessment Tool (YRAT), for typically developing youth age 14 and older. A Contractor-selected life skills assessment tool for youth with Neurodevelopmental Disorders for whom the YRAT is not developmentally appropriate.

· Work with a youth on completing this assessment shall begin no later than two days after intake and continue on a regular basis until completion no later than 20 calendar days after intake.

· Comprehensive Assessment Report

· Timing based on development of rapport and trust, but in adequate time to inform the development of the Treatment Plan.

Section 4.05 Assessment is amended as follows:

Timeframes

· Screenings for emergency medical and behavioral health needs

· Immediately at intake

· Screening for safety and risk factors

· No later than 8 hours after intake

· Initial, interim Treatment Plan, including initial Behavior Support and Safety Plan

· No later than 24 hours after intake

· The Behavior Support and Safety Plan shall include planning for safety should a youth run from the program.

· Assessments for trauma, substance use, CANS

· Timing based on development of rapport and trust, but in adequate time to inform the Treatment Plan due 30 days after intake.

· Youth Readiness Assessment Tool (YRAT), for typically developing youth age 14 and older. A Contractor-selected life skills assessment tool for youth with Neurodevelopmental Disorders for whom the YRAT is not developmentally appropriate.

· Work with a youth on completing this assessment shall begin no later than two days after intake and continue on a regular basis until completion no later than 20 calendar days after intake.

· Comprehensive Assessment Report

· Timing based on development of rapport and trust, but in adequate time to inform the development of the Treatment Plan.

3. Appendix F Intensive Emergency Residence Section 4.05 Assessment Timeframes

· Screenings for emergency medical and behavioral health needs

· Immediately at intake

· Screening for safety and risk factors

· No later than 8 hours after intake

· Initial, interim Treatment Plan, including initial Behavior Support and Safety Plan

· No later than 24 hours after intake

· The Behavior Support and Safety Plan shall include planning for safety should a youth run from the program.

· Youth Readiness Assessment Tool (YRAT), for typically developing youth age 14 and older. A Contractor-selected life skills assessment tool for youth with an Intellectual Disability for whom the YRAT is not developmentally appropriate.

· No later than 7 calendar days after intake

· Comprehensive Assessment Report

· Completed in adequate time to inform development of the Treatment Plan.

Section 4.05 Assessment is amended as follows:

Timeframes

· Screenings for emergency medical and behavioral health needs

· Immediately at intake

· Screening for safety and risk factors

· No later than 8 hours after intake

· Initial, interim Treatment Plan, including initial Behavior Support and Safety Plan

· No later than 24 hours after intake

· The Behavior Support and Safety Plan shall include planning for safety should a youth run from the program.

· Assessments for trauma, substance use, CANS

· No later than 5 calendar days after intake

· Youth Readiness Assessment Tool (YRAT), for typically developing youth age 14 and older. A Contractor-selected life skills assessment tool for youth with an Intellectual Disability for whom the YRAT is not developmentally appropriate.

· No later than 7 calendar days after intake

· Comprehensive Assessment Report

· Completed in adequate time to inform development of the Treatment Plan.

3. Appendix G Medically Complex Residence Section 4.05 Assessment

Timeframes

· Screenings for emergency medical and behavioral health needs that require immediate attention.

· Immediately at intake

· Screening for safety and risk factors related to potential medical complications, medication side effects, and behavioral health challenges.

· No later than 8 hours after intake

· Initial, interim Treatment Plan, including initial Behavior Support and Safety Plan

· No later than 24 hours after intake

· Youth Readiness Assessment Tool (YRAT), for typically developing youth age 14 and older. A Contractor-selected life skills assessment tool for youth with Intellectual Disabilities for whom the YRAT is not developmentally appropriate.

· Work with a youth on completing this assessment shall begin no later than two days after intake and continue on a regular basis until completion no later than 20 calendar days after intake.

· Comprehensive Assessment Report

· Completed in adequate time to inform development of the Treatment Plan.

Section 4.05 Assessment is amended as follows:

Timeframes

· Screenings for emergency medical and behavioral health needs

· Immediately at intake

· Screening for safety and risk factors

· No later than 8 hours after intake

· Initial, interim Treatment Plan, including initial Behavior Support and Safety Plan

· No later than 24 hours after intake

· Assessments for trauma and CANS

· Timing based on development of rapport and trust, but in adequate time to inform the Treatment Plan due 30 days after intake.

· A substance abuse assessment is not required.

· Youth Readiness Assessment Tool (YRAT), for typically developing youth age 14 and older. A Contractor-selected life skills assessment tool for youth with Neurodevelopmental Disorders for whom the YRAT is not developmentally appropriate.

· Work with a youth on completing this assessment shall begin no later than two days after intake and continue on a regular basis until completion no later than 20 calendar days after intake.

· Comprehensive Assessment Report

· Timing based on development of rapport and trust, but in adequate time to inform the development of the Treatment Plan.

4. Appendix H Medically Complex and Behavioral Residence Section 4.05 Assessment

Timeframes

· Screenings for emergency medical and behavioral health needs that require immediate attention.

· Immediately at intake

· Screening for safety and risk factors related to potential medical complications, medication side effects, and behavioral health challenges.

· No later than 8 hours after intake

· Initial, interim Treatment Plan, including initial Behavior Support and Safety Plan

· No later than 24 hours after intake

· Youth Readiness Assessment Tool (YRAT), for typically developing youth age 14 and older. A Contractor-selected life skills assessment tool for youth with Intellectual Disabilities for whom the YRAT is not developmentally appropriate.

· Work with a youth on completing this assessment shall begin no later than two days after intake and continue on a regular basis until completion no later than 20 calendar days after intake.

· Comprehensive Assessment Report

· Completed in adequate time to inform development of the Treatment Plan.

Section 4.05 Assessment is amended as follows:

Timeframes

· Screenings for emergency medical and behavioral health needs

· Immediately at intake

· Screening for safety and risk factors

· No later than 8 hours after intake

· Initial, interim Treatment Plan, including initial Behavior Support and Safety Plan

· No later than 24 hours after intake

· Assessments for trauma, substance use, CANS

· Timing based on development of rapport and trust, but in adequate time to inform the Treatment Plan due 30 days after intake.

· Youth Readiness Assessment Tool (YRAT), for typically developing youth age 14 and older. A Contractor-selected life skills assessment tool for youth with Neurodevelopmental Disorders for whom the YRAT is not developmentally appropriate.

· Work with a youth on completing this assessment shall begin no later than two days after intake and continue on a regular basis until completion no later than 20 calendar days after intake.

· Comprehensive Assessment Report

· Timing based on development of rapport and trust, but in adequate time to inform the development of the Treatment Plan.

5. Appendix I Youth and Young Adult Group Residence Section 4.05 Assessment

Timeframes

· Screenings for emergency medical and behavioral health needs

· Immediately at intake

· Screening for safety and risk factors

· No later than 8 hours after intake

· Initial, interim Treatment Plan, including initial Behavior Support and Safety Plan

· No later than 24 hours after intake

· Youth Readiness Assessment Tool (YRAT), for typically developing youth age 14 and older.

· Work with a youth on completing this assessment shall begin no later than two days after intake and continue on a regular basis until completion no later than 20 calendar days after intake.

· Comprehensive Assessment Report

· Completed in adequate time to inform development of the Treatment Plan.

Section 4.05 Assessment is amended as follows:

Timeframes

· Screenings for emergency medical and behavioral health needs

· Immediately at intake

· Screening for safety and risk factors

· No later than 8 hours after intake

· Initial, interim Treatment Plan, including initial Behavior Support and Safety Plan

· No later than 24 hours after intake

· Assessments for trauma, substance use, CANS

· Timing based on development of rapport and trust, but in adequate time to inform the Treatment Plan due 30 days after intake.

· Youth Readiness Assessment Tool (YRAT), for typically developing youth age 14 and older. A Contractor-selected life skills assessment tool for youth with Neurodevelopmental Disorders for whom the YRAT is not developmentally appropriate.

· Work with a youth on completing this assessment shall begin no later than two days after intake and continue on a regular basis until completion no later than 20 calendar days after intake.

· Comprehensive Assessment Report

· Timing based on development of rapport and trust, but in adequate time to inform the development of the Treatment Plan.

6. Appendix J Youth and Young Adult Living Community

4. Housing and Safety Inspections Contractors shall ensure attainment of current licenses, approvals, and certificates of inspection by state and local agencies, including a:

· Current Certificate of Inspection or Use and Occupancy Permit issued by the Department of Public Safety or the local building inspector;

· Written report from the appropriate health inspector documenting that each unit complies with 105 CMR 410.000: Minimum Standards of Fitness for Human Habitation (State Sanitary Code: Chapter II); and

· Certificate of inspection, to be obtained at least twice each year, from the local fire department.

· The Department in its sole discretion, may consider alternate documentation or assurances submitted by the Provider, including but not limited to a copy of the facility’s lease, as proof of compliance with the above requirements.

Section 4 Housing and Safety Inspections is amended as follows:

Contractors shall ensure attainment of current licenses, approvals, and certificates of inspection by state and local agencies, including a:

· Current Certificate of Inspection or Use and Occupancy Permit issued by the Department of Public Safety or the local building inspector;

· Written report from the appropriate health inspector documenting that each unit complies with 105 CMR 410.000: Minimum Standards of Fitness for Human Habitation (State Sanitary Code: Chapter II); and

· Certificate of inspection, to be obtained at least twice each year, from the local fire department.

· The Department in its sole discretion, may consider alternate documentation or assurances submitted by the Provider, including but not limited to a copy of the facility’s lease, as proof of compliance with the above requirements.

· Should a Bidder propose to serve 17-year-olds in this program model, the program will have to be licensed by EEC.

Section 4.05 Assessment

Timeframes

· Screenings for emergency medical and behavioral health needs

· Immediately at intake

· Screening for safety and risk factors

· No later than 8 hours after intake

· Initial, interim Treatment Plan, including initial Behavior Support and Safety Plan

· No later than 24 hours after intake

· Youth Readiness Assessment Tool (YRAT), for typically developing youth age 14 and older.

· Work with a youth on completing this assessment shall begin no later than two days after intake and continue on a regular basis until completion no later than 20 calendar days after intake.

· Comprehensive Assessment Report

· Completed in adequate time to inform development of the Treatment Plan.

Section 4.05 Assessment is amended as follows:

Timeframes

· Screenings for emergency medical and behavioral health needs

· Immediately at intake

· Screening for safety and risk factors

· No later than 8 hours after intake

· Initial, interim Treatment Plan, including initial Behavior Support and Safety Plan

· No later than 24 hours after intake

· Assessments for trauma, substance use, CANS

· Timing based on development of rapport and trust, but in adequate time to inform the Treatment Plan due 30 days after intake.

· Youth Readiness Assessment Tool (YRAT), for typically developing youth age 14 and older. A Contractor-selected life skills assessment tool for youth with Neurodevelopmental Disorders for whom the YRAT is not developmentally appropriate.

· Work with a youth on completing this assessment shall begin no later than two days after intake and continue on a regular basis until completion no later than 20 calendar days after intake.

· Comprehensive Assessment Report

· Timing based on development of rapport and trust, but in adequate time to inform the development of the Treatment Plan.

7. Appendix K Young Adult Supported Living Section 4.05 Assessment

Timeframes

· Screenings for emergency medical and behavioral health needs

· Immediately at intake

· Screening for safety and risk factors

· No later than 8 hours after intake

· Initial, interim Treatment Plan, including initial Behavior Support and Safety Plan

· No later than 24 hours after intake

· Youth Readiness Assessment Tool (YRAT), for typically developing youth age 14 and older.

· Work with a youth on completing this assessment shall begin no later than two days after intake and continue on a regular basis until completion no later than 20 calendar days after intake.

· Comprehensive Assessment Report

· Completed in adequate time to inform development of the Treatment Plan.

Section 4.05 Assessment is amended as follows:

Timeframes

· Screenings for emergency medical and behavioral health needs

· Immediately at intake

· Screening for safety and risk factors

· No later than 8 hours after intake

· Initial, interim Treatment Plan, including initial Behavior Support and Safety Plan

· No later than 24 hours after intake

· Assessments for trauma, substance use, CANS

· Timing based on development of rapport and trust, but in adequate time to inform the Treatment Plan due 30 days after intake.

· Youth Readiness Assessment Tool (YRAT), for typically developing youth age 14 and older. A Contractor-selected life skills assessment tool for youth with Neurodevelopmental Disorders for whom the YRAT is not developmentally appropriate.

· Work with a youth on completing this assessment shall begin no later than two days after intake and continue on a regular basis until completion no later than 20 calendar days after intake.

· Comprehensive Assessment Report

· Timing based on development of rapport and trust, but in adequate time to inform the development of the Treatment Plan.

8. Appendix L Young Parent Living Program Section 4.05 Assessment Timeframes

· Screenings for emergency medical and behavioral health needs

· Immediately at intake

· Screening for safety and risk factors

· No later than 8 hours after intake

· Initial, interim Treatment Plan, including initial Behavior Support and Safety Plan

· No later than 24 hours after intake

· Young Parent Assessment, using a DCF-provided tool

· No later than 7 days after intake

· Youth Readiness Assessment Tool (YRAT), typically developing young parents age 14 and older in the care or custody of DCF

· No later than 20 calendar days after intake

· Comprehensive Assessment Report

· Completed in adequate time to inform development of the Treatment Plan;

· Includes Parenting Evaluation, using a contractor-selected tool, that assesses the ability of the young parent to safely care for their child, the impact of trauma and/or adverse childhood experiences on their parenting, and recommendations for treatment and concrete parenting skills that need to be addressed.

Section 4.05 Assessment is amended as follows:

Timeframes

· Screenings for emergency medical and behavioral health needs

· Immediately at intake

· Screening for safety and risk factors

· No later than 8 hours after intake

· Initial, interim Treatment Plan, including initial Behavior Support and Safety Plan

· No later than 24 hours after intake

· Young Parent Assessment, using a DCF-provided tool

· No later than 7 days after intake

· Assessments for trauma, substance use, CANS

· Timing based on development of rapport and trust, but in adequate time to inform the Treatment Plan due 30 days after intake.

· Youth Readiness Assessment Tool (YRAT), typically developing young parents age 14 and older in the care or custody of DCF

· No later than 20 calendar days after intake

· Comprehensive Assessment Report

· Completed in adequate time to inform development of the Treatment Plan;

· Includes Parenting Evaluation, using a contractor-selected tool, that assesses the ability of the young parent to safely care for their child, the impact of trauma and/or adverse childhood experiences on their parenting, and recommendations for treatment and concrete parenting skills that need to be addressed.

9. Appendix M Residential Schools Section 4.05 Assessment

Timeframes

· Screenings for emergency medical and behavioral health needs

· Immediately at intake

· Screening for safety and risk factors

· No later than 8 hours after intake

· Initial, interim Treatment Plan, including initial Behavior Support and Safety Plan

· No later than 24 hours after intake

· The Behavior Support and Safety Plan shall include planning for safety should a youth run from the program.

· Youth Readiness Assessment Tool (YRAT), for typically developing youth age 14 and older. A Contractor-selected life skills assessment tool for youth with Neurodevelopmental Disorders for whom the YRAT is not developmentally appropriate.

· Work with a youth on completing this assessment shall begin no later than two days after intake and continue on a regular basis until completion no later than 20 calendar days after intake

· Comprehensive Assessment Report

· Timing based on development of rapport and trust, but in adequate time to inform the development of the Treatment Plan

Section 4.05 Assessment is amended as follows:

Timeframes

· Screenings for emergency medical and behavioral health needs

· Immediately at intake

· Screening for safety and risk factors

· No later than 8 hours after intake

· Initial, interim Treatment Plan, including initial Behavior Support and Safety Plan

· No later than 24 hours after intake

· The Behavior Support and Safety Plan shall include planning for safety should a youth run from the program.

· Assessments for trauma, substance use, CANS

· Timing based on development of rapport and trust, but in adequate time to inform the Treatment Plan due 30 days after intake.

· Youth Readiness Assessment Tool (YRAT), for typically developing youth age 14 and older. A Contractor-selected life skills assessment tool for youth with Neurodevelopmental Disorders for whom the YRAT is not developmentally appropriate.

· Work with a youth on completing this assessment shall begin no later than two days after intake and continue on a regular basis until completion no later than 20 calendar days after intake

· Comprehensive Assessment Report

· Timing based on development of rapport and trust, but in adequate time to inform the development of the Treatment Plan

Section 4.10 Well-Being is amended to insert the following language:

· Per the DPH Drug Control Program, DPH School Health Unit, and 101 CMR 210 The Administration of Prescription Medications in Public and Private Schools, Residential Schools are required to use either licensed health care professionals to administer medication or the School Health medication administration model at a minimum during the school day.

· Residential Schools do not need to follow MAP. However, MAP is an option for medication administration in Residential Schools during non-school hours provided that all eligibility and DPH/MAP policy requirements are followed. In particular, if MAP is selected for medication administration in a school’s residential areas, all children to be served must qualify for MAP in that they are part of a program that is licensed, funded or operated by DCF.

10. Appendix R Youths’ and Siblings’ Rights Document title: Appendix S Youths’ and Siblings’ Rights is amended as follows:

Appendix R Youths’ and Siblings’ Rights

11. Appendix 3Q Shared Space Proposed Staffing Structure Appendix 3Q Shared Space Proposed Staffing Structure was amended as follows:

· Number of Beds was changed to Total Number of Beds

· Number of Beds Per Model was added to Column F

12. Program Model Checklist was modified in Bidders Proposing Programmatic ADD ON or QRTP shall Complete the Applicable Sections Below by removing the dropdown option in the Bidder Check Off column for the question “For how many of the sites of this program model is programmatic add-on being requested?”. Bidders shall enter the appropriate number.

13. Regional Service Resolution Group Checklist was modified in Regions where Applying for Regional Service Resolution Group by changing the Bidder Check Off drop down box for Boston to “X”.

Amendment #4 March 22, 2021

The Request for Response for Congregate Care Network issued by the Department of Children and Families on February 16, 2021 shall be amended as follows:

1. Section 7.09(A) Non-Competitive Method and Section 7.09(B) Competitive Method.

All Bidders submitting a response after April 20, 2021 must notify Andrea Cosgrove at DCF.CCNET22@mass.gov before submitting a bid.

Section 7.09(A) Non-Competitive Method and Section 7.09(B) Competitive Method is amended as follows:

All Bidders submitting a response after May 3, 2021 must notify Andrea Cosgrove at DCF.CCNET22@mass.gov before submitting a bid.

2. Section 7.12(C). Responses Due: April 20, 2021

Section 7.12(C) is amended as follows:

Section 7.12(C). Responses Due: May 3, 2021

3. Section 7.13 Bidder’s Conference The following section is inserted following Section 7.13(F)

Section 7.13(G) The Department will hold a second Bidders’ Conference as follows:

Date: March 26, 2021 from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Location: This will be a virtual Bidders’ conference.

Address: The link for the March 26th virtual Bidders’ Conference is https://statema.webex.com/statema/onstage/g.php?MTID=ee08c5f9647add7bfd765a561253630ee Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Attendance at the Bidders’ Conference is optional but is strongly recommended.

Format: Bidders may submit questions during the Bidders’ Conference as directed at the meeting opening.

4. Section 7.14 Written Inquiries Written inquiries, other than questions submitted prior to the Bidders’ Conference per Section 7.13(F), will not be accepted. The Department strongly encourages Bidders to attend the Bidder’s Conference for clarifications.

Section 7.14 Written Inquiries is amended as follows:

Written inquiries will be accepted beginning Friday, March 26, 2021 at 12p.m. until Thursday, April 1,2021 at 2p.m. to email address DCF.CCNET22@mass.gov. Answers to the written inquiries, along with questions and answers from the Bidder’s Conference on March 26, 2021, will be posted to COMMBUYS on a future date.

Amendment #3 March 12, 2021

The Request for Response for Congregate Care Network issued by the Department of Children and Families on February 16, 2021 shall be amended as follows:

1. Section 6.01 Rate Regulation The rate regulation for program models and optional programmatic add-on services procured through this RFR at the time of this RFR release is 101 CMR 413.00: Payments for Youth Intermediate-Term Stabilization Services. Other regulations promulgated by EOHHS under Chapter 257 of the Acts of 2008 may contain rates that are used for client-specific add-on services and related costs within this RFR. Rate regulations are promulgated periodically, and payments for service models under this RFR will be tied to those promulgated rates.

Section 6.01 Rate Regulation is amended as follows:

The rate regulation for program models and optional programmatic add-on services procured through this RFR at the time of this RFR release is 101 CMR 413.00: Payments for Youth Intermediate-Term Stabilization Services. Other regulations promulgated by EOHHS under Chapter 257 of the Acts of 2008 may contain rates that are used for client-specific add-on services and related costs within this RFR. Rate regulations are promulgated periodically, and payments for service models under this RFR will be tied to those promulgated rates.

2. Section 8.04 Unit Rates Contractors will be reimbursed for service on a unit rate basis. The applicable unit rate is based on the service type and model. The unit of service applicable to these rates is either a per placement per day per youth rate, or per program model per set period of time rate, as established in 101 CMR 413.00 or other applicable regulations.

Programmatic Add-Ons will be paid using the established Monthly Add-On rate, per 101 CMR 413.00, for the corresponding position that has been approved for the contract. The Add-On rate will be in addition to the existing program model rate per unit of service as established in 101 CMR 413. The Add-On rate will be incorporated into the daily service referral rate for any active service referral at a program, or in addition to the accommodation rate for programs paid via accommodation rates.

Section 8.04 Unit Rates is amended as follows:

Contractors will be reimbursed for service on a unit rate basis. The applicable unit rate is based on the service type and model. The unit of service applicable to these rates is either a per placement per day per youth rate, or per program model per set period of time rate, as established in 101 CMR 413.00 or other applicable regulations.

Programmatic Add-Ons will be paid using the established Monthly Add-On rate, per 101 CMR 413.00 or other applicable regulations, for the corresponding position that has been approved for the contract. The Add-On rate will be in addition to the existing program model rate per unit of service as established in 101 CMR 413 or other applicable regulations. The Add-On rate will be incorporated into the daily service referral rate for any active service referral at a program, or in addition to the accommodation rate for programs paid via accommodation rates.

3. Appendix J Youth and Young Adult Supported Living Community

3. Housing and Safety Inspections. The following language is inserted as a fourth bullet in the fourth paragraph of this section.

· The Department in its sole discretion, may consider alternate documentation or assurances submitted by the Provider, including but not limited to a copy of the facility’s lease, as proof of compliance with the above requirements.

4. Appendix K Young Adult Supported Living

3. Housing and Safety Inspections. The following language is inserted as a fourth bullet in the second paragraph of this section.

· The Department in its sole discretion, may consider alternate documentation or assurances submitted by the Provider, including but not limited to a copy of the facility’s lease, as proof of compliance with the above requirements.

5. Program Model Checklist was modified in Required Documents to show an “X” in Column H drop down.

Amendment #2 March 05, 2021

The Request for Response for Congregate Care Network issued by the Department of Children and Families on February 16, 2021 shall be amended as follows:

5. Section 7.09(A) Non-Competitive Method and Section 7.09(B) Competitive Method.

All Bidders submitting a response after April 12, 2021 must notify Andrea Cosgrove at DCF.CCNET22@mass.gov before submitting a bid.

Section 7.09(A) Non-Competitive Method and Section 7.09(B) Competitive Method is amended as follows:

All Bidders submitting a response after April 20, 2021 must notify Andrea Cosgrove at DCF.CCNET22@mass.gov before submitting a bid.

6. Section 7.12(C). Responses Due: April 12, 2021

Section 7.12(C) is amended as follows:

Section 7.12(C). Responses Due: April 20, 2021

7. Section 8.04 Unit Rates. The following language is inserted into this section:

Programmatic Add-Ons will be paid using the established Monthly Add-On rate, per 101 CMR 413.00, for the corresponding position that has been approved for the contract. The Add-On rate will be in addition to the existing program model rate per unit of service as established in 101 CMR 413. The Add-On rate will be incorporated into the daily service referral rate for any active service referral at a program, or in addition to the accommodation rate for programs paid via accommodation rates.

4. Section 9.06 Provider Qualification Section 9.06(B): If a Bidder does not have current contracts for the purchase of human and social services for clients and has not been qualified as described above, it must submit provider qualification application materials (Contracting Qualification Form & Supplement and Instructions) in a zipped file to the contact named in Section 9.06(C) by the deadline for response for this RFR. You can find the Contracting Qualification Form at the EOHHS Internet site for Potential New Purchase of Service (POS) Providers https://www.mass.gov/service-details/self-assessment.

Section 9.06(B) is amended as follows:

If a Bidder does not have current contracts for the purchase of human and social services for clients and has not been qualified as described above, it must submit provider qualification application materials (Contracting Qualification Form & Supplement and Instructions) in a zipped file to the contact named in Section 9.06(D) by the deadline for response for this RFR. You can find the Contracting Qualification Form at the EOHHS Internet site for Potential New Purchase of Service (POS) Providers https://www.mass.gov/service-details/self-assessment.

5. Section 10.02 Submission Deadline Responses received by Monday, April 12, 2021 by 2:00 P.M. will be included in the initial review, with contracts anticipated to begin by October 1, 2021. Bidders applying after Monday, April 12, 2021 must notify Andrea Cosgrove at DCF.CCNET22@mass.gov when submitting a bid.

Submissions received after Monday, April 12, 2021 will be reviewed on a quarterly basis.

Section 10.02 Submission Deadline is amended as follows:

Responses received by Tuesday, April 20, 2021 by 2:00 P.M. will be included in the initial review, with contracts anticipated to begin by October 1, 2021. Bidders applying after Monday, April 20, 2021 must notify Andrea Cosgrove at DCF.CCNET22@mass.gov when submitting a bid.

Submissions for program models acquired using Non-Competitive method received after Tuesday, April 20, 2021 will be reviewed on a quarterly basis. See section 7.09(B) for additional qualified response submissions for program models acquired using Competitive method.

Contracted Bidders who wish to apply for QRTP status, after award of a Congregate Care Network contract for a QRTP-eligible program model, may submit a QRTP response after the original submission deadline. Submissions for QRTP status are anticipated to be reviewed every six months from the submission deadline.

6. Section 10.05 Electronic Response Package Submission Format Inside of zip files, Bidders shall use the following naming conventions:

· Insert Bidder’s organization’s name for the italicized placeholder “Bidder;” and

· Insert the proposed program model name for the italicized placeholder, “Program Model Name.”

· For example, the file name “Program Model Name Response Sheet 1 Bidder would be – Community Treatment Residence Response Sheet 1 XYZ Agency.doc Name of Zip Files: Bidder Response Package Bidder Program Model Response Package

Name of Files: RFR Response Summary Form Bidder Program Model Checklist Bidder Program Model Name Response Sheet 1 Bidder Program Model Name Response Sheet 2 Bidder Program Model Name Response Sheet 3 Bidder Program Model Name Programmatic Add-On Response Sheet Bidder Program Model Name QRTP Response Sheet Bidder Regional Service Resolution Group Checklist Bidder Regional Service Resolution Group Response Sheet Bidder Shared Space Checklist Bidder Shared Space Response Sheet Bidder Shared Space Proposed Staffing Structure Bidder Attachments – Name of Item Bidder

· For example, Family Engagement Policy XYZAgency.doc; Accreditation Certificate XYZAgency.pdf

Section 10.05 Electronic Response Package Submission Format is amended as follows: Inside of zip files, Bidders shall use the following naming conventions:

· Insert Bidder’s organization’s name for the italicized placeholder “Bidder;” and

· Insert the proposed program model name for the italicized placeholder, “Program Model Name.”

· For example, the file name “Program Model Name Response Sheet 1 Bidder would be – Community Treatment Residence Response Sheet 1 XYZ Agency.doc Name of Zip Files: Bidder Response Package Bidder Program Model Response Package Bidder Regional Service Resolution Response Package Bidder Shared Space Response Package The Bidder Response Package is a zip file that contains other zip files. Each Bidder shall submit one Bidder Response Package. Everything that a Bidder is proposing shall be included in one Bidder Response Package zip file.

· Examples:

· A Bidder proposing two different program models and one proposal for Shared Space will submit a Bidder Response Package that contains three zip files. Two of the zip files will be Program Model Response Packages and one zip file will be a Shared Space Response Package;

· A Bidder proposing one program model and participation in a Regional Service Resolution Group will submit a Bidder Response Package that contains two zip files. One of the zip files will be a Program Model Response Package. The other zip file will be a Regional Service Resolution Response Package;

· A Bidder proposing three different program models will submit a Bidder Response Package that contains three zip files. The three zip files will be the three different Program Model Response Packages – one for each of the proposed program models.

Naming Convention for Files:

Inside Bidder Response Package:

RFR Response Summary Form Bidder Inside Program Model Response Package:

Program Model Checklist Bidder Program Model Name Response Sheet 1 Bidder Program Model Name Response Sheet 2 Bidder Program Model Name Response Sheet 3 Bidder Program Model Name Programmatic Add-On Response Sheet Bidder Program Model Name QRTP Response Sheet Bidder Inside Regional Service Resolution Group Response Package:

Regional Service Resolution Group Checklist Bidder Regional Service Resolution Group Response Sheet Bidder Inside Shared Space Response Package:

Shared Space Checklist Bidder Shared Space Response Sheet Bidder Shared Space Proposed Staffing Structure Bidder Attachments – Name of Item Bidder

· For example, Family Engagement Policy XYZAgency.doc; Accreditation Certificate XYZAgency.pdf

Naming Convention for Attachments:

Name of Attachment Bidder

Some Response Sheets request attachments. Attachments shall be included in the same zip file as the Response Sheet on which they are requested.

· For example, Response Sheet 1 for many program models requests a copy of the trauma assessment tool.

Trauma Assessment Bidder.doc

· For example, some of the attachments to accompany the QRTP Response Sheet are:

Family Engagement Policy Bidder.doc;

Accreditation Certificate Bidder.pdf

7. Section 10.06(B) Required Attachments 10.06(B)(i) EOHHS New Group Home Request Siting Form, required for each site not in use as a group home prior to RFR posting date 10.06(B)(ii) Qualification Package, if not currently qualified, or Pre-Qualification Letter 10.06(B)(iii) Supplier Diversity Program (SDP) Form for Purchase of Services (POS) 10.06(B)(iv) SOMBWA Certificate, if applicable Section 10.06(B) Required Attachments is amended as follows:

10.06(B)(i) EOHHS New Group Home Request Siting Form, required for each site not in use as a group home prior to RFR posting date 10.06(B)(ii) Qualification Package, if not currently qualified, or Pre-Qualification Letter: demonstration that a provider of purchase human and social services to clients meets minimum administrative and fiscal standards (see RFR section 9.06).

10.06(B)(iii) Supplier Diversity Program (SDP) Form for Purchase of Services (POS): required form demonstrating provider’s commitment to the Commonwealth’s Supplier Diversity Program (see RFR section 9.05).

10.06(B)(iv) SDO Certificate, if applicable: the Supplier Diversity Office (SDO) certifies certain diverse business categories (Minority (MBE), Women (WBE), Portuguese (PBE) and Veteran (VBE) businesses) inhouse and has agreements with third-party organizations that certify these same categories and others that certify other business categories (Service-Disabled Veteran (SDVOBE), Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBTBE) and Disability-Owned (DOBE) businesses), all of which must meet certain certification criteria (see section 9.05).

8. Following section 10.06(B), the following section is inserted:

Section 10.06(C) Required Documents Upon Contract Award and Negotiation The following documents are not submitted with the initial proposal bid, but must be completed upon contract award and negotiations:

10.06(C)(i) Commonwealth Standard Contract Form: standard contracting form issued by the Massachusetts Comptroller and required for all Commonwealth contracts.

10.06(C)(ii) Program Model Summary Sheet: narrative summary of each program model for which a provider is contracted, required in a contract packet.

10.06(C)(iii) POS Attachment 1: attachment to a Purchase of Service contracts detailing program information and fiscal terms.

10.06(C)(iv) POS Subcontract Information Form (when applicable): attachment to a contract detailing subcontractor relationship(s) the provider is engaged in to fulfil contract terms.

10.06(C)(v) Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification Form (W-9): standard form issued by the Massachusetts Comptroller to register a provider entity on the Massachusetts Management Accounting and Reporting System (MMARS) if not already registered.

10.06(C)(vi) Authorization for Electronic Funds Payment Form (mandatory if not already on EFT): form to initiate an electronic funds transfer for payments issued by the Commonwealth to a provider agency.

10.06(C)(vii) Contract Authorized Signatory Listing Form: required form for each contract listing provider staff authorized to sign contractual documents on behalf of the provider.

10.06(C)(viii) Clarification/Negotiated Adjustment Form (when applicable): required form to document any clarifications, modifications, and/or adjustments agreed to by both parties during contract negotiations or for subsequent program changes after contracts are executed.

10.06(C)(ix) Rate Verification Letter (applicable for residential schools only): a letter documenting a program’s approved rate as issued by the Operational Services Division (OSD).

9. Section 10.07(E)(ii)(1) A single Program Model Response Package shall be used for a single program model that will operate at multiple addresses and that will: The following language is inserted into this section:

c. To accommodate the need to answer questions about the local community, Bidders may use an attachment for responses to questions that ask about the local community (e.g., local officials, community mental health centers). For each question that asks about the local community, provide a numbered response for each separate geographic location. For example, “Provide a list of the titles of local government officials with whom the program will build relationships?” Program 1. City or town name, list of officials, Program 2. City or town name, list of officials, Program 3. City or town name, list of officials... and so on for each geographic location proposed.

d. To accommodate proposals for a single program model that are the same except for genders served on Response Sheet 1 under Program Description Question 3, which asks for gender served, list each proposed program and the genders to be served. For example, Program 1. males, Program 2. females, Program 3. both males and females.

10. Section 14.01 Mandatory Contract Forms:

At the time of negotiations, DCF will work with successful Bidders to complete all mandatory contract documents including:

· Commonwealth Standard Contract Form & incorporated Commonwealth Standard Terms and Conditions for Health and Human Services

· Request for Taxpayer Identification Number & Certification Form (W-9) (if not already on file)

· Authorization for Electronic Funds Payment form (mandatory, if not already on EFT)

· Contractor Authorized Signatory Listing Form

· Supplier Diversity Program (SDP) Plan Form for Purchase of Service (POS)

· Program Model/Summary Sheet

· POS Attachment 1

· Negotiated Adjustment Form or Clarifications Form

· Rate Verification Sheet

· Subcontract Information Form (when applicable)

· Qualification Package (if not currently qualified) or Pre-Qualification Letter

· Contractor’s response, exclusive of any terms that are inconsistent with RFR

· Other terms and conditions the contractor agreed to as part of contract negotiations Please review all forms to be sure your agency understands the terms and conditions when entering into a contract with the Commonwealth.

Section 14.01 Mandatory Contract Forms is amended as follows:

At the time of negotiations, DCF will work with successful Bidders to complete all mandatory contract documents including:

· Commonwealth Standard Contract Form & incorporated Commonwealth Standard Terms and Conditions for Health and Human Services

· Request for Taxpayer Identification Number & Certification Form (W-9) (if not already on file)

· Authorization for Electronic Funds Payment form (mandatory, if not already on EFT)

· Contractor Authorized Signatory Listing Form

· Supplier Diversity Program (SDP) Plan Form for Purchase of Service (POS)

· Program Model/Summary Sheet

· POS Attachment 1

· Negotiated Adjustment Form or Clarifications Form

· Rate Verification Letter (applicable for residential schools only)

· Subcontract Information Form (when applicable)

· Qualification Package (if not currently qualified) or Pre-Qualification Letter

· Contractor’s response, exclusive of any terms that are inconsistent with RFR

· Other terms and conditions the contractor agreed to as part of contract negotiations Please review all forms to be sure your agency understands the terms and conditions when entering into a contract with the Commonwealth.

11. Appendix E Emergency Treatment Residence Section 4.13 Continuous Quality Improvement

· Use CQI Level II

Section 4.13 Continuous Quality Improvement is amended as follows:

· Use CQI Level I

12. Appendix J Youth and Young Adult Supported Community Living

Appendix J Youth and Young Adult Supported Community Living is amended as follows:

Appendix J Youth and Young Adult Supported Living Community

3. Housing and Safety Inspections. The following language is inserted as the last sentence into this section:

Rental agreements and leases should list the Bidder as the tenant. The rate for this model provides the funding for rent of units occupied by youth/young adults.

13. Appendix K Young Adult Supported Living

3. Housing and Safety Inspections. The following language is inserted as the last sentence into this section:

Rental agreements and leases should list the Bidder as the tenant. The rate for this model provides the funding for rent of units occupied by young adults.

14. Appendix S: Historic Utilization of Former Program Models and Crosswalk to New Program Models Appendix S: Historic Utilization of Former Program Models and Crosswalk to New Program Models, was modified to include utilization of Pre-Independent Living models for the Western Regional Office.

15. Appendix T: Projected Need for Emergency Residences and Intensive Emergency Residences Appendix T: Projected Need for Emergency Residences and Intensive Emergency Residences, Northern Region tab was modified to view projected need for Salem Office.

16. Appendix 1A Community Treatment Residence Response Sheet 1…