RFP 24-USDA-1 Broadline Groceries and the Storage and Distribution of USDA Food Products and Supplie

The Oregon Child Development Coalition (OCDC) has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP 24-USDA-1) for a year-round distributor to provide broad-line grocery supplies and storage and distribution of USDA food products for Head Start Centers throughout Oregon. The solicitation seeks a contractor to deliver dairy products, eggs, and other food items to 19 sites across 8 different regions, with two deliveries per week at specific times between 5:30 AM and 3:00 PM. Proposers must demonstrate capabilities in product procurement, storage, inventorying, and delivery, with a strong emphasis on food safety, customer service, and adherence to federal nutritional guidelines. Evaluation criteria include price per case, delivery capabilities, health inspection reports, food safety principles, product recall policies, references, company capabilities, sustainability practices, and commitment to diversity and inclusion. The proposal submission deadline is August 16, 2024, at 2:00 PM Pacific Standard Time, with potential site visits and interviews for top-ranked proposers. The initial contract term is one year, with options to renew for a cumulative maximum of three years.

The RFP includes specific provisions for business inclusion and diversity, requiring proposers to take reasonable steps to ensure certified minority-owned, women-owned, service-disabled veteran-owned, and emerging small businesses have equal opportunity to participate as subcontractors. Proposers must complete multiple certifications, including those related to federal matters, lobbying activities, clean air and water standards, and non-collusion requirements. The contract is subject to various federal regulations, including the Byrd Anti-Lobbying Amendment, Clean Air Act, and Buy American provisions. While no specific budget range is explicitly stated, the comprehensive nature of the solicitation suggests a significant annual food procurement contract. Proposers must demonstrate compliance with Oregon tax laws, have necessary financial resources, and possess the capability to meet the detailed product specifications outlined in Exhibit 1, which lists specific dairy products, pack sizes, and estimated usage quantities. The contract opportunity emphasizes not just product delivery, but also a holistic approach to food service that incorporates sustainability, diversity, and strict compliance with federal and state regulations.