Title
Request to Enter into Contract with Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest (Ordinance S-49012)
Description
Request to authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to enter into an agreement with Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest (LSS) for COVID-19 Homeless Outreach, Navigation and Emergency Shelter Services. The total value of the contract will not exceed $931,000. Further request to authorize the City Controller to disburse all funds related to this item. Funding is available from the City’s allocation of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) received from the federal government and is part of the Homelessness Projects program of the strategic plan.
Report
Summary
LSS's Interfaith Homeless Emergency Lodging Program (I-HELP) provides overnight emergency shelter to those experiencing homelessness and case management to help them move from crisis to stability. The LSS I-HELP creates a personalized service plan for each participant and outlines the steps necessary for a transition to a life of stability. In addition, the LSS I-HELP will provide crucial information to health care resources including: substance abuse; behavioral health counseling; primary care and health screening; employment and job training resources; and housing and benefits advocacy. This model also supports health and wellness through prevention, access to care, shared resources and advocacy. LSS began planning and outreach to various congregations in August to begin the process to open beds early next calendar year.
Contract Term
The term of the contract will begin on or about Aug. 1, 2022, through June 30, 2023, with one option to extend through Dec. 29, 2024, which may be exercised by the City Manager or designee.
Financial Impact
The total value of the contract will not exceed $931,000. Funding is available from ARPA and is part of the Homelessness Projects program. There is no impact to the General Fund.
Concurrence/Previous Council Action
On June 7, 2022, services were approved by the City Council at the Policy Session as part of the ARPA Second Tranche Strategic Plan.
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Deputy City Manager Gina Montes and the Human Services Department.