RFP - Domestic Violence Assistance Fund for Harris County Public Health Services

Harris County Public Health Services is seeking a qualified vendor to administer the Domestic Violence Assistance Fund (DVAF), a $1.5 million program designed to provide flexible financial assistance to domestic violence survivors. The primary objective is to support survivors in meeting critical basic needs and safely leaving abusive environments, with eligible expenses including housing, transportation, childcare, utilities, legal assistance, and other urgent needs. A pre-proposal conference was held on August 13, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. CST via Microsoft Teams, with questions due by August 14, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. CST. The anticipated contract is for a one-year initial term with two potential one-year renewal options, subject to Harris County Commissioners Court approval. Proposals are due on August 25, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. local time, and will be evaluated based on five weighted criteria: understanding of need and program approach (30%), organizational capacity and experience (25%), survivor-centered and trauma-informed practices (25%), pricing (10%), and performance measurement (10%). Vendors must demonstrate a comprehensive, survivor-centered approach that prioritizes equitable access and cultural responsiveness, with a focus on supporting marginalized populations disproportionately affected by domestic violence.

The solicitation emphasizes Minority- and Woman-Owned Business Enterprise (M/WBE) participation, with a specific M/WBE goal of 1.33%. Vendors must provide documentation of M/WBE involvement, including completed Utilization Commitment Forms and Letters of Intent from certified M/WBE subcontractors. To qualify for goal credit, M/WBE firms must have a Significant Local Presence in Harris, Fort Bend, Montgomery, Brazoria, or Galveston Counties. The program requires strict IT security compliance, with vendors needing to meet comprehensive cybersecurity controls and provide documentation such as SOC2 Type 2 Reports and vulnerability scan results. Vendors must also comply with various insurance requirements, including Workers' Compensation, Commercial General Liability, and Professional Liability insurance. While no specific incumbent vendors are mentioned, the program builds upon a 2020 pilot launched with American Rescue Plan Act resources. The total program budget is $1.5 million, with flexibility in individual survivor assistance amounts, and reimbursement anticipated within 30 days of receiving a valid invoice. Successful vendors will be expected to collaborate to develop a comprehensive ecosystem of resources and service providers for domestic violence survivors.