5000-omhsas-cssh produce OCT-DEC 2026

The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS), is soliciting produce suppliers for the Community Support and Stabilization Help (CSSH) program for the period October–December 2026, with proposals due August 21, 2026. Pennsylvania Executive Order 2010-03 establishes a preference for Pennsylvania-produced agricultural products when available at competitive prices; suppliers must be research-ready to demonstrate Pennsylvania sourcing across five qualifying categories (Pennsylvania Preferred licensed products, 100% in-state harvest, 75% in-state production cycle, or 100% in-state processing and packaging).

The scope includes two parallel commodity streams: fresh fruits and vegetables (31 items spanning apples, bananas, blueberries, stone fruits, melons, citrus, leafy greens, root vegetables, and nightshades, each with specified U.S. grade standards, acceptable varieties, container and net-weight requirements, and peak-availability months) and prepared fresh vegetables (11 categories—broccoli, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celery, head lettuce, onions, sweet peppers, potatoes, radishes, and mixed salad greens—in multiple preparation options and package sizes of 5–30 pounds). Prepared vegetables require processing in Pennsylvania General Food Law–compliant facilities with annual inspection certification, vacuum packing in plastic within master cartons, refrigerated transport at 32–36°F, processing-date labeling, and a minimum seven-day shelf life; sulfites are prohibited. Delivery is required within two days of processing, and quantities are estimates subject to facility adjustment. The facility reserves cancellation rights with five days' notice and may reject non-conforming or late shipments.

All contractors must execute the Pennsylvania Worker Protection and Investment Certification Form (EO 2021-06), confirming compliance with Pennsylvania unemployment, workers' compensation, construction misclassification, child labor, minimum wage, prevailing wage, and equal-pay laws. False certification triggers contract termination and three-year debarment under 62 Pa. C.S. § 531. Suppliers must also comply with Reciprocal Limitations Act requirements governing vendor eligibility and participation restrictions.