Excel Worksheet containing Appendices: A, C, D and F for RFP # 2021-039VF
Transitional Supported Housing for those Recovering from Substance Use Related Disorder
RFP #2021-039VF
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS:
Question 1:
Good morning,
While we embrace the ECDMH’s recognition of the importance of hiring practices which promote equity, diversity and inclusion, the inclusion of specific academic degrees in job qualifications is often a barrier to hiring qualified, experienced diverse candidates with the skills to best serve recipients of services. Please also note that the academic requirements in the RFP exceed those of other funding sources for similar programs, disqualifying current employees from providing this service. We are asking for flexibility in the academic requirements, per the examples below.
• Supervisor
- RFP - Master’s in human services with at least 5 years direct experience providing services to a primarily SUD population, at least 3 years of which must include experience providing and/or supervising housing and/or housing case management/care coordination. Having a CASAC is seen as a plus.
- Suggestion - Degree in a related field that leads to Qualified Health Professional (QHP) status. CASAC (T) certification preferred. Direct service experience demonstrated experience in supervising, and program management experience in a housing, or homeless program.
• SUD Housing Case Manager-Coordinator
- RFP - Bachelor’s degree in human services and 2 years direct experience providing services to a primarily SUD population, at least one year of which must include experience providing housing and/or housing case management/care coordination. CASAC and lived experience seen as a plus.
- Suggestion - Degree in human service-related field and experience working with Co-Occurring population. CASAC preferred.
ANSWER:
As you reference, we do support practices which promote equity, diversity and inclusion. While we believe the qualifications presented in the RFP are consistent with serving the target population, providing the services as outlined and achieving the desired outcomes, we recognize and accept that there is no one singular staffing credentialing formula.
Respondents are advised to submit a response that reflects the staffing qualifications that are intended to be implemented if awarded the project. The reviewers will make the final assessment using the scoring tool to evaluate how the proposed staffing would meet the performance goals of the service.
Question 2:
- Are there any restrictions on how the performance incentives can be used by the provider? For example, will they need to be used to offset deficit funding in other programs? Please provide details.
ANSWER:
It is encouraged that earned performance incentives be utilized to further strengthen, improve and/or stabilize the program awarded under this RFP. However, the dollars can also be utilized for expenses associated with the provision of services to the county’s mental hygiene population in any program that receives funding from or is certified/licensed by the NYS Office of Addiction Services and Supports, NYS Office of Mental Health or NYS Office for People with Developmental Disabilities. These funds must be spent in the year allocated and reported on the Consolidated Fiscal Report (CFR) on line 29 (“other revenue”-predefined field).
The funds earned from the performance incentive cannot be used to supplant Federal, State or Local funding and cannot be utilized as a required match for a federally funded grant program.
The ECDMH will work with the awarded provider on the specifics of allowable spending and reporting of these funds.