Emergency Shelter Operations

Dane County Department of Human Services (DCDHS) in Wisconsin is soliciting proposals through RFP #426019-HMM for Emergency Shelter Operations, seeking qualified shelter operators to provide comprehensive emergency shelter services for households experiencing homelessness. The procurement targets three distinct shelter categories: adult men, adult women, and families with minor dependents, with a mandatory requirement for 365-day operations and a Housing First approach. Key deliverables include low-barrier shelter access, diversion services, and rapid connections to permanent housing, with specific performance expectations such as maintaining 80% bed utilization, achieving 30% permanent housing exits for single individuals and 70% for families, and maintaining an average length of stay under 90 days. Proposers must attend a mandatory vendor conference on June 17, 2025, submit questions by July 2, 2025, and submit full proposals by July 16, 2025 at 11:59 pm. The evaluation will be points-based, scoring across program overview, strategies, experience, qualifications, and cost, with a strong emphasis on trauma-informed, client-centered, and equitable service delivery.

The solicitation does not explicitly indicate specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. However, the county prioritizes applicants with experience serving diverse and high-need populations, demonstrating strong performance outcomes and commitment to housing-first principles. Dane County intends to award up to $2,025,383 for these shelter operations, with contracts limiting administrative costs to 15% of the total budget. Proposers are expected to leverage additional funding sources, including Medicaid waivers, crisis stabilization programs, grants, and private fundraising. The contract will be effective for one year with options to renew for four additional one-year periods. Vendors must demonstrate organizational capacity to bill for discrete service units and will be subject to potential best and final offer pricing discussions. Final payment terms and service unit prices will be negotiated prior to contract execution, with pricing reflecting cost reasonableness and available Dane County funding.