White Flag Response Partner

Wake County is soliciting proposals from service providers and faith-based organizations to serve as White Flag Response Partners. This initiative focuses on coordinating and operating temporary emergency shelters for individuals experiencing homelessness during severe weather conditions. Partners must operate facilities within Wake County that meet specific safety and utility standards, including approved heat, plumbing, and electricity, and must pass annual inspections by the county or state regulatory agencies. Operational requirements include maintaining a minimum of two staff members per site, providing dinner and breakfast for guests, and implementing a comprehensive security plan for congregate shelters. All operations must adhere to the Wake County Continuum of Care White Flag Response Plan. The selection process is based on five evaluation factors weighted at 20 points each: organization background and staffing, experience and shelter capacity, effective practices and cost, risk assessment, and operational readiness. Funding is provided on a reimbursement basis for actual expenses, with reimbursement requests limited to once per month and requiring detailed documentation such as sign-in sheets and payroll reports. Proposals must be submitted via the WC Bonfire System by December 3, 2026. The contract is subject to various federal and state regulations, including the Davis-Bacon Act, Equal Employment Opportunity standards, and the Iran Divestment Act.