2113 DHS ODP EBC fresh and frozen produce

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania's Department of Human Services, specifically the Ebensburg Center located in Cambria County, is soliciting bids for a fresh and frozen produce procurement contract covering January through March 2026. The invitation for bid (IFB) seeks a vendor to supply 32 line items of produce, including fresh vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers, broccoli, cabbage, celery, cauliflower, onions, peppers, carrots, green beans), fresh fruits (apples, blueberries, cantaloupe, honeydew, oranges, strawberries, watermelon, kiwi, bananas), and frozen produce items. Bid quantities range from 2 units to 1,560 pounds, with specific delivery requirements aligned to facility storage capabilities. The procurement will be awarded based on lowest price per line item or lowest overall bid price, with bids due by 1:00 p.m. on November 20, 2025. Electronic bid responses must be submitted through the Pennsylvania Supplier Portal, and bidders are required to register to obtain a vendor number and adhere to specified brand and pack size requirements. The procurement contact is Buyer Tamara George, reachable at 814-472-0289.

The solicitation does not explicitly detail set-aside designations or restrictions on participating organizations. Bidders are required to complete mandatory compliance questions and may optionally identify Pennsylvania-produced agricultural products in their bids, in accordance with PA Executive Order 2010-03. Required attachments include specifications, terms and conditions, workers protection form, and executive order documentation. Vendors must bid only acceptable brands specified on the specification sheets and meet precise product quality standards aligned with U.S. Department of Agriculture grades. While specific budget ranges are not disclosed, the comprehensive specification document outlines detailed product requirements, delivery schedules, and quality expectations for weekly and bi-weekly deliveries from January 5, 2026, through March 30, 2026. The contract will be F.O.B. destination, with the facility bearing all transportation costs, and quantities may be adjusted based on the Dietary Director's consumer needs.