Refugee Housing Stabilization Program (RHSP)

The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE) is seeking 1-3 organizations to administer the Refugee Housing Stabilization Program (RHSP), a statewide housing assistance initiative for Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR)-eligible individuals. The program will provide comprehensive housing support, including up to 6 months of rental assistance (potentially extending to 12 months), security deposits, utility assistance, and housing navigation services for refugees, asylees, Afghan and Iraqi Special Immigrant Visa holders, and Cuban and Haitian Entrants. Applicants must demonstrate extensive experience serving diverse newcomer populations, with a proven ability to administer large financial assistance funds and provide supportive services. Key evaluation criteria include organizational experience, staffing capabilities, financial systems, and commitment to equitable service. The procurement is specifically targeting high-refugee population areas such as Metro Denver, Pikes Peak Region, and Northern Colorado. Proposals are due on Monday, June 9th, 2025, at 11:59 PM local time, with an estimated grant effective date of October 1st, 2025, for Federal Fiscal Year 2026.

The RFA emphasizes serving populations within their first 60 months after arrival, with monthly assistance ranging from $400 to $600 depending on household size. Eligibility is restricted to organizations with at least three years of experience working with newcomer populations in Colorado, and participants must meet specific criteria including immigration status and household income (80% or less of Area Median Income). Approximately 75% of available funds are designated for eligible Afghans. The program is structured as a cost reimbursement grant with strict financial and operational requirements, including comprehensive data collection and reporting mechanisms. Total funding available is between $2 and $2.5 million, with organizations required to provide detailed documentation including organizational budgets, financial statements, and governance information. The procurement prioritizes equity, mandating service delivery regardless of age, ability, ethnicity, language, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, and race. Successful applicants must demonstrate financial stability and administrative capacity to manage federal funding requirements effectively.