The objective of this solicitation is to procure a qualified vendor to operate and manage a Lifeline that provides free, and confidential support 24/7/365 to individuals experiencing emotional distress, mental health crises, or suicidal ideation. The selected vendor will ensure timely, compassionate, and effective crisis intervention services, integrate with local and national behavioral health systems, and support the continuous enhancement of the Lifeline in alignment with federal and state standards. The Lifeline is a federally mandated initiative designed to provide an easily accessible, three-digit number, 988, for individuals in crisis to connect with trained mental health professionals. This service is a critical component of the broader behavioral health care system and plays a vital role in early intervention and suicide prevention. The program aligns with the Department's mission to promote mental wellness, reduce stigma, and improve access to behavioral health services across the state. As call volumes and public awareness of 988 increase, there is an urgent need to ensure sustainable operations, maintain high-quality service delivery, and enhance coordination with mobile crisis teams and community-based resources. The Department is seeking a vendor with demonstrated expertise in crisis response, call center operations, and behavioral health care coordination to ensure that every individual who contacts the Lifeline receives timely and appropriate support. The Department is addressing a critical need for a robust and responsive crisis response infrastructure capable of managing increased demand for mental health services. Current capacity gaps and inconsistent access to timely intervention pose significant risks to individuals in crisis and strain the broader health and public safety systems. This Solicitation seeks innovative, experienced partners to strengthen the crisis system, improve response times, enhance caller outcomes, and ensure equitable access to crisis care across all communities.
