Emergency Shelter Operations for YOUTH

Dane County Department of Human Services (DCDHS) is seeking proposals for Emergency Shelter Operations for Youth through RFP #426028-HCB, targeting youth services operators to provide comprehensive shelter services for unaccompanied and homeless youth aged 12-17. The procurement aims to secure a provider capable of delivering safe, low-barrier, trauma-informed shelter and crisis intervention services that promote family reunification or permanent housing placement. Key deliverables include 365-day shelter access, coordination with supportive service providers, and maintaining compliance with safety and programmatic standards. Evaluation criteria will prioritize applicants with experience serving diverse and high-need populations, demonstrating strong performance outcomes and commitment to housing-first principles. The solicitation timeline requires vendors to submit electronic proposals by July 16, 2025, at 11:59 pm, with vendor questions due by July 2, 2025, through the county's eProcurement Portal. The contract will be effective for one year from execution, with options to renew for four additional one-year periods.

The procurement does not specify explicit set-aside designations or restrictions on respondent types, but requires vendors to be registered in good standing with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions. The current service provider is Briarpatch Youth Services, Inc. Dane County intends to award up to $139,220 for shelter operations, with administrative costs limited to 15% of the total budget. Vendors are expected to leverage additional funding sources, including Medicaid 1915(i) waiver, Medicaid Crisis Stabilization, Comprehensive Community Services (CCS), grants, and private fundraising. The contract will utilize a unit-based reimbursement model, with one unit defined as a shelter night per individual. Pricing proposals will be evaluated based on service unit rates, with final pricing subject to negotiation considering cost reasonableness and available funding. Potential for best and final offer discussions exists to differentiate finalist proposals.