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Health and Human Services Agency, Social Services Division, recommending the Board:
1) Approve and authorize the Chair to sign Agreement for Services 355-S1711 with Whole Person Learning, Inc., for the provision of Transitional Housing Placement-Plus services, which are provided to emancipated foster youth who are at least 18 years old but not yet 24 years, on an “as requested” basis, for the term March 1, 2017 through February 28, 2020, with an annual not-to-exceed obligation of $269,244 for up to nine (9) participants to participate for twelve (12) full months; and
2) Authorize the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute further documents relating to Agreement for Services 355-S1711, including amendments which do not increase the maximum dollar amount or term of the Agreement, and contingent upon approval by County Counsel and Risk Management.
FUNDING: 100% State Realignment Funds.
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DEPARTMENT RECOMMENDATION
Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) recommending the Board approve and authorize the Chair to sign Agreement for Services 355-S1711 with Whole Person Learning, Inc., for the term March 1, 2017 through February 28, 2020, with an annual not-to-exceed obligation of $269,244 for up to nine (9) clients to participate in the program for twelve (12) full months.
Welfare and Institutions Code Sections 11403 and 16522 provide for Transitional Housing Placement-Plus (THP Plus) services, in which emancipated foster youth or former dependents or wards of the juvenile court actively participate in supervised transitional living housing and are afforded supportive services to assist the youth in moving toward self-sufficiency. Approval of this Agreement for Services will permit the continued provision of THP-Plus services for current and future eligible emancipated foster youth, on an “as requested” basis.
Additionally, HHSA has determined, in accordance with County Ordinance Section 3.13.030, it is more economical and feasible to engage an independent contractor for THP-Plus services because the County does not possess the facilities required to provide the services.
DISCUSSION / BACKGROUND
The THP-Plus program is governed by Welfare and Institutions Code Sections 11403 and 16522 and it provides a transitional living opportunity for emancipated foster youth who are at least 18 years old but not yet 24 years. The program provides a rental subsidy, grocery vouchers, utility assistance, and transportation assistance. It also provides assistance with securing household supplies and furnishings, as well as provides assistance with education and employment expenses. The program provides a safe living environment while helping youth to develop life skills for successful independent living. Youth can participate in the program for a maximum of two (2) years.
HHSA has contracted with Whole Person Learning, Inc. since 2011 for the provision of THP-Plus services. The County of El Dorado’s Board of Supervisors approved the El Dorado County THP-Plus Plan on March 28, 2006 (File 06-0476, Item 6). Additionally, HHSA previously determined that Whole Person Learning Inc.’s program meets the THP-Plus requirements outlined in Welfare and Institutions Code, and HHSA has determined that the THP-Plus program is vital to meet the needs of the emancipated foster youth population in their quest to become self-sufficient.
ALTERNATIVES
Disapproval of Agreement for Services 355-S1711 will result in disruption of THP-Plus services currently being provided to HHSA clients and will significantly diminish HHSA’s ability to refer future clients to a THP-Plus program.
OTHER DEPARTMENT / AGENCY INVOLVEMENT
County Counsel, Risk Management, Human Resources, and Procurement and Contracts.
CAO RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Board approve this item.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
There is no Net County Cost associated with this Agenda item. Sufficient appropriations were included in the fiscal year 2016-17 budget, and will be included in future budgets for the term of the Agreement.
CLERK OF THE BOARD FOLLOW UP ACTIONS
1) Clerk of the Board to obtain signature of Chair on two (2) original Agreements for Services 355-S1711.
2) Clerk of the Board to return one (1) fully executed Agreement to the HHSA Contracts Unit at 3057 Briw Road.
STRATEGIC PLAN COMPONENT
County of El Dorado Strategic Plan Goal, “Healthy Communities,” Objective, “Protect against adverse outcomes among children, adults, and senior citizens.”
CONTACT
Patricia Charles-Heathers, Ph.D., Director