This initiative is designed to protect vulnerable individuals from severe environmental conditions— particularly extreme cold—and to support their progression toward stable, permanent housing. Selected service providers will work closely with the City to ensure timely, safe, and effective emergency response operations during such weather events. The City will activate Warming Centers during the winter months when temperatures fall below 10°F. The City anticipates serving approximately 200 individuals, the proposer is expected to provide the following services: • Safe, indoor overnight shelter • Hot meals served on-site and distributed through the mobile food program • Blankets, hats, gloves, and other essential warming items • Personal hygiene and care products • Laundry services In addition, selected service providers must have the capacity to deploy community outreach workers to: • Conduct street outreach to engage individuals and families living encampments • Support staffing and operations of the Warming Centers to ensure efficient, safe, and compassionate service delivery • Provide food, supplies, and supportive engagement to individuals who choose to remain in encampments • Commit to using coordinated entry program, VESTA o Train outreach workers and others • Assist with intake processing and provide wrap-around services focused on rehousing and reconnecting individuals and families • Conduct triage, promote health and safety, make referrals, and coordinate services for individuals with mental health or substance use challenges
