Refugee Social Services

The County of Orange Social Services Agency is soliciting proposals for Refugee Social Services (RFP No. 063-2692501-DM) to support refugees, asylees, humanitarian parolees, and human trafficking victims who have been in the United States for five years or less. The comprehensive services include intake and assessment, employment preparedness, English language training, job search assistance, job retention support, skills training, housing assistance, and support services such as transportation, interpretation, and mentoring. Key objectives require contractors to enroll 90% of referred clients in approved activities within 30 days, place 50% of clients in employment within four months, and ensure 70% of clients retain employment for 90 days. The procurement targets bilingual, culturally responsive service providers capable of addressing employment barriers for refugee populations. The proposal submission deadline is November 21, 2024, at 4:00 pm, with an anticipated contract term from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2028, and potential two-year renewal options. Respondents must be located in Orange County or have the ability to establish a local office.

The contract appears open to qualified firms without specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises. Funding is derived from federal and state sources, including the Office of Refugee Resettlement, with a maximum contractual funding obligation of $5,530,929. Annual funding allocations will decrease from $2,483,529 in the first year to $1,523,700 in subsequent years, with a specific housing allocation designated for direct housing and utility payments for eligible participants. The contract is contingent upon state budget approval and federal funding, with the County reserving the right to modify, terminate, or reduce the contract based on funding availability. Respondents must demonstrate extensive experience working with diverse refugee populations and providing comprehensive social services. The contract will require integration with existing county social service infrastructure and technologies, though specific technical requirements are not detailed in the provided documents. Successful contractors will be expected to serve a diverse refugee population, with recent statistical data showing service to refugees from Ukraine, Afghanistan, Cuba, and other countries.