Food Distribution Program

Dane County, Wisconsin is seeking a provider for a Food Distribution Program through Request for Proposal (RFP) #426017-EMC issued by the Dane County Department of Human Services. The selected vendor will collect and distribute food to the Dane County Food Pantry Network (DCFPN) pantries and other food distribution sites, serving low-income individuals and families. Key program requirements include developing an annual plan, establishing at least 80 food distribution sites, conducting 18 funding and/or food drives annually, and providing quarterly and annual reports. The contract will be effective for one year from execution, with an option to renew for four additional one-year periods. Proposal evaluation criteria include program overview, strategies and activities, experience and qualifications, quality improvement, and cost, with a local vendor preference factor. Critical dates include a proposal release on April 4, 2025, a question submission deadline of May 9, 2025, and a proposal submission deadline of May 30, 2025 at 11:59 pm. The targeted number of service units is 832 hours, with proposals to be submitted electronically through the county's eProcurement Portal.

The RFP does not explicitly outline specific set-aside designations or restrictions on responding organizations. The current provider is the Community Action Coalition for South Central Wisconsin, with a current staffing structure of 0.4 FTE. Administrative costs are limited to 15% of the total program cost, and the unit of service is defined as one staff hour. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the cost proposal workbook allows vendors to propose service units, rates, and program costs, with scoring based on the lowest cost proposal. The procurement encourages vendors to design a model that effectively meets program needs, with an emphasis on cultural relevance, food security, and supporting low-income populations. Final pricing and payment terms will be negotiated prior to contract execution, taking into consideration cost reasonableness and available Dane County funding. The proposal requires comprehensive budget detailing, including personnel schedules, operating expenses, space costs, and other potential expenditures.