DYS 2026-16 Independent Living- Males and Females- Central, Northeast, and Southeast Regions

The Department of Youth Services is seeking to competitively award three Independent Living Programs to support youth transitioning out of state custody in the Central, Northeast, and Southeast Regions of Massachusetts. These programs will provide safe, licensed residential settings with comprehensive life skills training, 24/7 supervision, trauma-informed case management, and structured transition planning to foster independence in housing, financial literacy, health care, employment, and community integration. The solicitations are issued under RFR DYS POS 2026-16, with proposals due by July 6, 2026, and anticipated contract commencement in August 2026. Contractors must operate under a fee-for-service model, with no subcontracting allowed, and must meet strict operational standards including compliance with PREA, state licensing codes, fire safety regulations, contraband protocols, visitor policies, and housing maintenance requirements. Staff must be at least 21 years old, complete mandatory DYS training, including de-escalation and restraint techniques, and maintain 24/7 on-call availability with documented replacement protocols. Evaluation will prioritize program specifications, which account for 72 out of 100 total points, covering supervision, money management, meal planning, building security, staff training, community partnerships, intake procedures, and transition planning. The Vision Statement contributes an additional 28 points, focusing on organizational mission and strategic direction. The award process uses a trade-off methodology, where technical excellence outweighs price, and selections will be made through a consensus-based committee review. Proposals are strictly limited to 30 pages, with appendices excluded, and must be submitted electronically via COMMBUYS. Contractors must use DYS’s JJEMS system for case documentation, report monthly expenses and youth progress, and maintain established community housing and service linkages. The contract has a three-year base term with two optional one-year renewals, subject to legislative appropriation and program performance. All employees require EEC-approved background checks, and housing units must be fully prepared and compliant prior to youth placement. No specific funding amounts or unit pricing are disclosed, though reimbursement is tied to Chapter 257 rates, and all contracts remain contingent on available appropriations.