Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN) Respite Services

The Mississippi State Department of Health is seeking qualified entities to establish Service Provider Agreements for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN) Respite Services. Funded through the Title V Maternal and Child Health Block Grant, this initiative aims to expand access to person-centered, non-medical respite care in home or community settings to reduce caregiver burden and improve family stability. The period of performance begins upon execution and continues through September 30, 2027. Providers will be reimbursed at a standardized rate of 6.24 dollars per 15-minute unit. Applicants must be eligible entities and pass initial gates regarding minimum requirements and risk of noncompliance. Evaluation is based on organizational overview, work plan, geographical coverage of rural or underserved regions, and service delivery quality. Required documentation for application includes a SAM.gov registration and a Unique Entity ID. Selected providers must submit monthly invoices and reports detailing participants served and units delivered, supported by service logs and signatures. Compliance is monitored through invoice reviews, documentation audits, and virtual or in-person monitoring visits. Applications are due electronically via the OpenGov Procurement portal by May 3, 2027.