Jewish chaplaincy services

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) is soliciting bids for Jewish Chaplaincy Services across multiple correctional units, including Stringfellow, Ramsey, Terrell, Jester III, Stiles, and Wynne Units. The Invitation for Bids (IFB) seeks contract chaplains to provide 96 total services (four services per month at most locations) for the period of September 1, 2025 through August 31, 2026. Bidders must submit electronic submissions preferred to bids@tdcj.texas.gov, with Microsoft Office formatted documents and a 10 MB attachment limit per email. The bid is scheduled to be opened on August 21, 2025 at 3:00 PM, with hard copy responses also accepted. Qualification requirements include compliance with Texas state regulations, e-verify system verification, and passing background checks. Evaluation criteria will focus on best value considerations, including past performance, quality, and conformance to specifications. Bidders must provide documentation demonstrating eligibility, including verification of no suspension, debarment, or terrorism-related restrictions.

The solicitation does not explicitly mention specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Contractors must adhere to strict unit rules, security procedures, and professional conduct standards when performing services within correctional facilities. Bidders are required to comply with various state and federal compliance certifications and provide pricing details with F.O.B. destination pricing. The TDCJ reserves the right to make awards based on comprehensive evaluation of submitted bids. While specific budget ranges are not detailed in the provided documents, the contract covers chaplaincy services across six correctional units for a full year. Potential vendors must demonstrate comprehensive understanding of correctional facility protocols, religious service requirements, and ability to work within a structured correctional environment. Successful contractors will need to navigate complex institutional requirements while providing consistent and meaningful religious chaplaincy services to inmates.