RFP #27-3-PH doulas services

Cumberland County Public Health Department is requesting proposals for birth doula services under RFP #27-3-PH, with proposals due September 8, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. EST at the Cumberland County Purchasing Office. The County anticipates awarding to two eligible organizations using best overall value method; applicant agencies must be physically located in Cumberland County, demonstrate at least three years of experience providing doula services, and employ or contract with doulas certified by accredited organizations such as DONA International or the National Doula Certification Board.

Selected awardees must hire or contract with two certified birth doulas to provide continuous labor support to at least 30 clients annually, with capacity for up to 8 additional clients, and maintain contact with clients at specified intervals during pregnancy and up to 12 months postpartum. The scope includes conducting informational webinars and addressing maternal mortality and severe maternal morbidity through evidence-based doula support, particularly targeting health disparities affecting underserved populations. Applicants must complete training on health equity and social determinants of health.

The County will award up to $95,000 per funded organization for the one-year contract period (January 1, 2027 through December 31, 2027), disbursed monthly upon receipt of approved invoices. Cost sharing and matching funds are not required. Potential continuation is subject to annual appropriation by the County Board of Commissioners. Proposals will be evaluated on a 100-point scale: Statement of Need (10 points), Project Description and Implementation Plan (25 points), Data Collection and Evaluation (15 points), Equity Impact (10 points), Collaboration and Coordination (15 points), Experience and Organizational Capacity (15 points), and Budget and Budget Narrative (10 points).

Informational webinars are scheduled for August 6 and August 10, 2026. Written questions are due August 14, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. EST. Proposals must include two letters of commitment or support and a two-year budget using the County's template. All proposals must comply with Iran Divestment Act restrictions, E-Verify requirements, and divestment requirements regarding companies that boycott Israel.