Congregate Care Network RFR

The Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF) is seeking to procure a Congregate Care Network through a Request for Responses (RFR). The goal is to drive innovation in congregate care programming that will yield a network with the capacity to meet the diverse and complex needs of children, adolescents, and young adults who require 24/7 therapeutic care. The RFR outlines a framework for five program categories with 16 specific program models, with Bidders having flexibility to propose Specialty Treatment Residences. Bidders must submit separate responses for each program model, which will be evaluated based on factors such as organizational capacity, service delivery approach, quality improvement, and financial viability. Initial responses are due on May 3, 2021, with DCF intending to establish a hybrid congregate care network consisting of both Enhanced Treatment and non-Enhanced Treatment programs.

The RFR does not specify any set-aside designations or restrictions on the types of organizations that can respond. It is open to both in-state and out-of-state providers. The RFR does not name any incumbent vendors or provide details on current infrastructure or technology that requires integration. Pricing will be based on the established program model rates, with options for Bidders to propose alternative staffing models or programmatic add-ons subject to DCF review and approval. The RFR indicates that DCF intends this procurement to result in a network of congregate care programs, but does not provide a specific budget range or award values.