FORT WORTH/ARLINGTON/TARRANT COUNTY CONTINUUM OF CARE TX-601FY2015 COC PROGRAM

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP)

RFP ISSUE DATE: September 28, 2015

PROPOSAL DEADLINE: 2:00 pm Tuesday, October 20, 2015

FUNDING OPP #: HUD FR-5900-N-25NOFA for the FY 2015 Continuum of Care

CFDA: 14.267

FUNDS AVAILABLE: Tier 1 = $9,546,881.25 Tier 2 = $3,369,487.50

ContentsIntroduction.................................................................................................................................................2

Program Overview.......................................................................................................................................2

Project Priorities and Objectives.................................................................................................................3

HUD’s Homeless Policy and Program Priorities.......................................................................................3

TX-601 Continuum of Care Objectives.....................................................................................................6

FY15 CoC NOFA Highlights...........................................................................................................................6

New Project Opportunities..........................................................................................................................7

Reallocation.............................................................................................................................................7

Permanent Housing Bonus......................................................................................................................8

Eligible Project Applicants...........................................................................................................................8

Renewal Projects.....................................................................................................................................8

First Time Applicants...............................................................................................................................8

Financial Management Requirements.........................................................................................................8

Project Budgets.......................................................................................................................................8

Match......................................................................................................................................................9

Leverage..................................................................................................................................................9

How to Apply...............................................................................................................................................9

Proposal Checklist.......................................................................................................................................9

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Coversheet................................................................................................................................................11

Proposal Narratives for NEW Rapid Rehousing for Families or Youth.......................................................12

Proposal Narratives for NEW Permanent Supportive Housing for the Chronically Homeless...................14

Proposal Narratives for RENEWAL PSH, RRH, TH and Safe Haven Projects...............................................15

APPENDIX A: Housing Barrier Assessment.................................................................................................17

Applicant Attestation.................................................................................................................................18

Introduction The CoC Program (24 CFR part 578) is designed to promote a community-wide commitment to the goal of ending homelessness; to provide funding for efforts by nonprofit providers, States, and local governments to quickly re-house homeless individuals, families, persons fleeing domestic violence, and youth while minimizing the trauma and dislocation caused by homelessness; to promote access to and effective utilization of mainstream programs by homeless; and to optimize self-sufficiency among those experiencing homelessness.

The CoC Program is authorized by subtitle C of title IV of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, (42 U.S.C. 11381–11389) (the Act), and the CoC Program regulations are found in 24 CFR part 578 (the CoC Program interim rule). The FY 2015 funds for the CoC Program were authorized by the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2015 (Public Law 113-235, approved December 16, 2014) (the “FY 2015 HUD Appropriations 6 Act”).

The TX-601 Ft Worth/Arlington/Tarrant County CoC has chosen the Tarrant County Homeless Coalition (TCHC) to serve as its Collaborative Applicant for FY2015.

Program OverviewThe contents of this RFP are subject to change pending any updates from the FY15 HUD NOFA.

FY15 HUD NOFA: https://www.hudexchange.info/resources/documents/Revised-FY-2015-CoC-Program-NOFA.pdf

FY15 CoC NOFA Broadcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PWcnkIsgj1I&feature=youtu.be

HEARTH Act: https://www.hudexchange.info/homelessness-assistance/hearth-act/

CoC Program Interim Rule: https://www.hudexchange.info/resources/documents/CoCProgramInterimRule.pdf

eSNAPS Resources: https://www.hudexchange.info/e-snaps/guides/coc-program-competition-resources/

Federal Strategy to Prevent & End Homelessness: Opening Doors: Federal Strategic Plan to Prevent and End Homelessness

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Project Priorities and ObjectivesHUD’s Homeless Policy and Program Priorities (NOFA page 8)

1. Strategic Resource Allocation. Using performance and outcome data, CoCs should decide how to best use the resources available to end homelessness within the community, including CoC and ESG Program funds, State and local funds, public and assisted housing units, mainstream service resources such as Medicaid, and philanthropic efforts. Decisions about resource allocation should include the following:

a. Comprehensive Review of Projects. CoCs should reallocate funds to new projects whenever reallocations would reduce homelessness. Communities should use CoC approved scoring criteria and selection priorities to determine the extent to which each project is still necessary and addresses the policy priorities listed in this NOFA.

b. Maximizing the Use of Mainstream Resources. HUD strongly encourages CoCs and project applicants to ensure that they are maximizing the use of all mainstream services available. While 24 CFR part 578 allows for the payment of certain supportive service costs, it is more efficient for CoCs to use mainstream resources where possible. CoCs should proactively seek and provide information to all stakeholders within the geographic area about mainstream resources and funding opportunities, particularly new opportunities made available under the Affordable Care Act and related technical assistance initiatives. Additionally, where homeless assistance projects are providing specialized services, such as employment services, mental health services, or substance abuse recovery services, they should be coordinating with State or local agencies responsible for overseeing these services to ensure that they are using best practices and that there is proper oversight of their programs.

c. Leveraging Resources through Partnerships. CoCs should partner with other stakeholders within the community such as Public Housing Agencies (PHAs), philanthropic organizations, and other agencies and organizations that have resources that could be used to serve persons experiencing homelessness.

d. Reviewing the Efficacy of Transitional Housing. Recent research shows that transitional housing is generally more expensive than other housing models serving similar populations with similar outcomes. HUD also recognizes that transitional housing may be an effective tool for addressing certain needs– such as housing for underage homeless youth, safety for persons fleeing domestic violence, and assistance with recovery from addiction. HUD strongly encourages CoCs and recipients to carefully review the transitional housing projects within the geographic area for cost-effectiveness, performance, and for the number and type of eligibility criteria to determine if rapid re-housing might be a better model for the CoC’s geographic area.

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2. Ending Chronic Homelessness

a. Increasing Units. In order to increase the number of units for chronically homeless individuals and families and work towards the goal of ending chronic homelessness, HUD encourages CoCs to create new projects through reallocation that exclusively serve chronically homeless individuals and families and/or create a permanent housing bonus project specifically for chronically homeless individuals and families. Chronically homeless and permanent supportive housing are defined in 24 CFR 578.3. Projects are prohibited from discriminating against chronically homeless families with children.

b. Targeting: Chronically homeless individuals and families should be given priority for permanent supportive housing beds not currently dedicated to this population as vacancies become available through turnover. Permanent supportive housing renewal projects serving specific disabled subpopulations (e.g., persons with mental illness or persons with substance use disorder) must continue to serve those subpopulations, as required in the current grant agreement. However, chronically homeless individuals and families within the specified subpopulation should be prioritized for entry. CoCs are encouraged to implement a process for prioritizing homeless individuals and families experiencing chronic homelessness consistent with Notice CPD 14-012: Prioritizing Persons Experiencing Chronic Homelessness in Permanent Supportive Housing and Recordkeeping Requirements for Documenting Chronic Homeless Status.

3. Ending Family Homelessness. Most families experiencing homelessness can be housed quickly and stably using rapid re-housing, although some will need the long-term support provided by a permanent housing subsidy or permanent supportive housing. CoCs should adjust the homeless services system for families to ensure that families can easily access rapid re-housing and other housing assistance tailored to their needs. CoCs should also be working with their affordable housing community to facilitate access to affordable housing units. CoCs should also ensure that their projects address the safety needs of persons fleeing domestic violence. Rapid re-housing is designed to assist homeless individuals and families, with or without disabilities, to move as quickly as possible into permanent housing and achieve stability in that housing. Rapid re-housing assistance is time-limited, individualized, and flexible, and should complement and enhance homeless system performance. HUD encourages CoCs to use reallocation to create new rapid re-housing projects for families.

4. Ending Youth Homelessness. CoCs should understand the unique needs of homeless youth and should be reaching out to youth-serving organizations to help them fully participate in the CoC. CoCs and youth serving organizations should work together to develop resources and programs that better end youth homelessness and meet the needs of homeless youth, including Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning (LGBTQ) youth. When evaluating the performance of youth programs, CoCs should take into account the specific challenges faced by homeless youth. When CoCs identify lower performing youth serving projects, they should seek to reallocate funds from those projects to better projects serving youth.

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5. Ending Veteran Homelessness. Ending veteran homelessness is within reach for many communities, and CoCs should take specific steps to reach this goal including:

a. CoC Program-funded projects should, to the extent possible, prioritize veterans and their families who cannot be effectively assisted with Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) services. When it is determined a veteran cannot be effectively assisted with VA housing and services and has the same level of need as a non-veteran (as determined using a standardized assessment tool) the veteran should receive priority.

b. CoCs should work closely with the local VA and other Veteran-serving organizations and coordinate CoC resources with VA-funded housing and services including HUD-VASH and Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF).

6. Using a Housing First Approach. Housing First is an approach to homeless assistance that prioritizes rapid placement and stabilization in permanent housing and does not have service participation requirements or preconditions such as sobriety or a minimum income threshold. Projects using a housing first approach often have supportive services; however, participation in these services is based on the needs and desires of the program participant. Specific steps to support a community-wide Housing First approach include the following:

a. Removing Barriers to Entry. CoCs should review system- and project-level eligibility criteria to identify and remove barriers to accessing services and housing that are experienced by homeless individuals and families. Many projects currently have barriers to entry.

b. Centralized or Coordinated Assessment System. Centralized or coordinated assessment is a key step in assessing the needs of homeless individuals and families requesting assistance and prioritizing those households for assistance. Establishment and operation of a centralized or coordinated assessment system is a requirement of 24 CFR part 578. HUD also posted a Coordinated Entry Policy Brief on the HUD Exchange to help inform local efforts to further develop CoCs’ coordinated entry processes.

c. Client-centered Service Delivery. Housing and service options should be tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual or family presenting for services. Program participants should not be required to participate in services that they do not believe will help them to achieve their goals.

d. Prioritizing Households Most in Need. CoCs should prioritize those who are identified as most in need (e.g., those who have been living on the street the longest, homeless households with children living in unsheltered situations, those who are considered most medically vulnerable) for placement into appropriate housing.

e. Inclusive Decision-making. CoCs should ensure that the needs of all individuals and families experiencing homelessness are represented within the CoC structure by including providers serving groups such as persons fleeing domestic violence, the LGBTQ community, victims of

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human trafficking, unaccompanied youth, and other relevant populations in the planning body. Including these groups in the decision-making structures of the CoC ensures that service delivery is both client-centered and culturally competent.

HUD recognizes that there may be some instances where the Housing First approach is not appropriate for a particular permanent or transitional housing project. For example, this may include projects where residents are focused on obtaining support to recover from substance use disorders, and such projects may be alcohol and drug free to support their continued sobriety. However, in general, Housing First approaches are encouraged across all types of projects.

TX-601 Continuum of Care Objectives In addition to the HUD Priorities, the TX-601 Board of Directors adopted the following Continuum of Care Objectives for 2014 – 2015:

1. Increase Progress Towards Ending Chronic Homelessness 1.1. Increase the supply of Permanent Supportive Housing beds 1.2. Increase the portion of existing beds dedicated for the chronically homeless to 85% 1.3. Increase turnover of CoC PSH beds through achievement of housing independence

2. Increase Housing Stability 2.1. Increase the number of persons that exit PSH programs into permanent housing 2.2. Increase preventative and primary health, mental health and behavioral health care 2.3. Expand outreach and rapid rehousing for homeless women

3. Increase Incomes of Program Participants 3.1. Increase access to critical documents 3.2. Increase training and job skills opportunities 3.3. Increase employment opportunities

4. Increase Participants Obtaining Mainstream Benefits 4.1. Increase access to SSI/SSDI benefits for persons with disability 4.2. Increase access to SNAPS/TANF/WIC 4.3. Increase access to VA benefits

5. Use Rapid Rehousing to Reduce Family Homelessness 5.1. Increase the supply of rapid rehousing from CoC Program and Emergency Solutions Grants 5.2. Convert more transitional housing programs into rapid rehousing 5.3. Prioritize families for rapid rehousing through the Coordinated Assessment System

http://www.ahomewithhope.org/wp-content/uploads/CoCSP-Final.pdf

FY15 CoC NOFA Highlights HUD will continue the 2 Tier funding process, however the process has changed.

o Tier 1 Projects will be conditionally selected, provided the project applications pass the eligibility and threshold review (NOFA pages 26-33)

o Tier 2 Projects will be assessed for eligibility and threshold requirements and funding will be determined using new HUD formula (NOFA page 16)

60 Points for CoC Application Score 20 Points for CoCs Ranking

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10 points for type of project 10 points for Housing First commitment

Two tiered funding approach formulao Tier 1 TX-601: $9,546,881.25

Tier 1 = CoCs Annual Renewal Demand (ARD) ($11,231,625) minus 15% of the ARD ($1,684,744)

o Tier 2 TX-601: $3,369,486.90 Tier 2 = Difference between Tier 1 and the CoCs Total ARD ($1,684,743.75) + the

amount available for the CoCs Permanent Housing Bonus ($1,684,743.15)o PH Bonus TX-601 = $1,684,743.15

Permanent Housing Bonus = 15% of the CoCs Final Pro-Rata Need (FPRN) The CoC Planning Project is separate from the 2 tier process and is therefore not ranked with

the remaining projects. The amount available for CoC Planning has increased to 3% of the ARD, which includes funds up to $336,948.75

o CoC Planning must pass eligibility and threshold requirements (NOFA Pages 26-33). Congress has made changes to the regulations governing administration and indirect cost

allocations (CFR Part 200); therefore, there are no penalty points for exceeding 7% of the administrative costs and the budgets are capped at 10%. Renewals MUST maintain the SAME budget amounts as approved in the HUD Grant Inventory Worksheet this past spring. New projects can apply for up to 10% administration costs.

The Collaborative Applicant (TCHC) has the responsibility to assure that all individual project applications and attachments are accurate. Therefore, application completeness will be a scored item in the local competition.

New Project Opportunities

In the FY 2015 CoC Program Competition, in addition to requests for renewal projects and CoC planning project requests, CoCs may submit requests for new projects funded through the process of reallocation or from the permanent housing bonus.

New projects are subject to the rules and regulations included in the HUD NOFA and the CoC Policies and Procedures; therefore, applicants should review these documents with care before submitting a proposal.

ReallocationThrough the reallocation process, CoCs may create the following types of new projects:

a) CoCs may create new permanent supportive housing projects where all beds will be dedicated for use by chronically homeless individuals and families, as defined in 24 CFR 578.3.

b) CoCs may create new rapid re-housing projects for homeless individuals and families who enter directly from the streets or emergency shelters, youth up to age 24, and persons who meet the criteria of paragraph (4) of the definition of homeless.

c) CoCs may create a new Supportive Services Only (SSO) project specifically for a centralized or coordinated assessment system.

d) CoCs may create a new dedicated Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) project for the costs at 24 CFR 578.37 that must be carried out by the HMIS Lead.

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Permanent Housing BonusCoCs may create new projects through the permanent housing bonus of up to 15 percent of the CoC’s FPRN for the following types of new projects:

a) CoCs may create new permanent supportive housing projects that will serve 100 percent chronically homeless families and individuals, and

b) CoCs may create new rapid re-housing projects that will serve homeless individuals and families coming directly from the streets or emergency shelters, and includes persons fleeing domestic violence situations and other persons meeting the criteria of paragraph (4) of the definition of homeless.

Eligible Project Applicants Eligible project applicants for the CoC Program Competition are nonprofit organizations, States, local governments, and instrumentalities of State and local governments, and public housing agencies, as such term is defined in 24 CFR 5.100, without limitation or exclusion. For-profit entities are not eligible to apply for grants or to be subrecipients of grant funds. (NOFA page 24)

Renewal ProjectsAwards made under the CoC Program, SHP, and S+C programs are eligible for renewal for FY 2015 funds if they are currently in operation and have an executed grant agreement that is dated no later than December 31, 2015 and expires in Calendar Year (CY) 2016 (the period from January 1, 2016 through December 31, 2016) and is included in the current Grant Inventory Worksheet.

First Time ApplicantsThoroughly read the Eligible Applicants section (NOFA page 24) and the New Projects Requirements (NOFA page 26). If you do not have an eSNAPS account (The electronic grants management system managed by HUD’s Office of Special Needs Assistance Programs (SNAPS)); please create an account immediately.

https://www.hudexchange.info/resources/documents/esnaps-Features-Functions-Instructional-Guide.pdf

Financial Management RequirementsIt is important for applicants to review the new financial management requirements that went into effect in December 2014 and will apply to the FY2015 CoC Program Grant; “Transition to 2 CFR Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, Final Guidance”, a.k.a “The Transition Notice.” Applicants should have their financial managers review the notice at: https://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/documents/huddoc?id=15-01sdn.pdf

Project BudgetsCoC Program eligible costs are detailed at 24 CFR 578.37 through 578. The eSNAPS instructional guide for budgets gives step by step instructions and a snapshot of eligibility information. It is located at: https://www.hudexchange.info/resources/documents/Budgets-Project-Application-Instructional-Guide.pdf

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Match25% match is required on all budget categories except leasing. Match may be cash or in kind and must be specifically detailed in a match commitment letter submitted with the CoC application. Match requirements are detailed at 24 CFR 578.73.

LeverageThe CoC wide leverage goal (aggregate of all applications) is a minimum of 150% of the total CoC funding request. Amount of leverage is a scoring component at both the national and local competition level. Leveraging commitment letters must be dated within 60 days of the application deadline (November 20, 2015).

How to ApplyComplete all required components as listed on the proposal checklist (page 10 of this document). Email all completed elements to carolyn@ahomewithhope.org no later than 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 20, 2015.

Please also ensure that all projects have a complete application in e-SNAPS no later than 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 20, 2015.

Any questions regarding the CoC Local Competition should be directed to Otis Thornton, Executive Director, Tarrant County Homeless Coalition; at otis@ahomewithhope.org

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Proposal Checklist

ApplicantCheck Application Contents TCHC

Review

☐ Application Coversheet (RFP Page 11; Word or PDF)

☐ Complete eSNAPS application, including all required attachments (PDF)Due in e-SNAPS by October 20, 2015 at 2:00 PM

☐ Complete CoC Proposal Narrative (RFP Pages 12-15; Word or PDF)

☐ Leverage Commitment Letter(s) equal to at least 150% of grant request (PDF)

☐ Match Commitment Letter(s) equal to at least 25% of grant request (except for leasing budget line item) (PDF)

☐ Renewal Projects Only: Copy of last 4 HUD-LOCCS payment summary emails (PDF)

☐ Copy of Agency Participant Termination Policy and/or Eviction Prevention Plan Policy (Word or PDF)

☐ APPENDIX A: Housing Barrier Assessment (RFP Page 17)

☐ Applicant Attestation (RFP Page 18; Word or PDF)

For agencies submitting more than one project proposal, each proposal must be complete in its entirety.

Submit all required documents as listed above to carolyn@ahomewithhope.org no later than

2:00 PM, Tuesday, October 20, 2015.

Questions about the RFP should be submitted by email to tchc@ahomewithhope.org. Please include “NOFA-15” in the subject line. Questions may be submitted until October 19, 2015 at 5:00 PM.

TCHC will post clarifications, corrections and announcements at http://www.ahomewithhope.org/funding-opportunities/ though October 19, 2015 at 5:00 PM.

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CoversheetRequired for each FY15 CoC Project Proposal

Project Information Project NameRecipientSubrecipient(s) (if applicable)Total Funds Requested* $

*Renewal projects must request only the amount approved in the Grant Inventory Worksheet; New projects requesting Bonus Funding cannot exceed $1,684,743.15. New projects requesting funding through reallocation can be any amount.

Application TypeNEW Permanent Supportive Housing Bonus Funds Reallocation FundsNEW Rapid Rehousing Bonus Funds Reallocation FundsRENEWAL Project PH-PSH PH-RRH TH Safe HavenGrant Term (NOFA Page 22) 1 year

(all renewals) 2 years 3 years 4 years 5 years 15 years

Contact Details

Legal Name of Applicant      

Mailing Address (Include City & Zip Code)      

County of Headquarters’ Office      

Authorized Representative Information

Chief Executive - First, Middle and Last names      

Prefix Mr. Ms.

Title      

Email      

Phone number      Information of person to contact with CoC Application questions Please identify the person in your organization who will be available to answer questions about this application by telephone on Friday, Oct 30, 2015.First, Middle and Last names      

Email      

Cell Phone      

Agency eSNAPS Contact (Authorized user submitting your CoC Project Application in eSNAPS)

Name      

Email      

Cell Phone      

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Proposal Narratives for NEW Rapid Rehousing for Families or YouthScoring: eSNAPS Application & Proposal Completeness: 15 PointsProposal Narratives: 60 Points

1. ENDING FAMILY/YOUTH HOMELESSNESS (6 points): Describe your agency’s outreach plan to engage unsheltered and emergency shelter providers to identify, coordinate and house homeless households with children. (Up to 150 words)

2. SUPPORTIVE SERVICES (5 points): RRH projects should maximize the amount of HUD CoC funding used for housing related costs. What specific non-HUD resources will be used to provide supportive services for the clients served? How will your agency connect participants to community based resources? (Up to 150 words)

3. EDUCATIONAL ASSURANCES (6 points): Describe how your agency will collaborate with local education authorities to ensure all children are enrolled in early childhood programs or in school and connected to appropriate services in the community. How will your agency actively collaborate with local school districts and early childhood education or childcare providers? (Up to 150 words)

4. MAINSTREAM BENEFITS (9 points):a. How will your agency assure participants are connected to resources as provided within

the Affordable Care Act (ACA)? (Up to 150 words)

b. Describe how your agency systematically screens clients for application for cash and non-cash benefits, secures transportation necessary to complete such applications and make appointments, and follows up to assist successful receipt of these benefits. (Up to 150 words)

5. HOUSING FIRST (9 points): Describe your agency’s experience in operating a successful housing first program, and clearly describe a program design that meets the definition of Housing First as described on page 10 in the FY15 CoC Program NOFA. (Applicants must also include answers to the Housing First related questions located in Section 3B on the electronic application in e-snaps) (Up to 200 words)

6. CONTINUUM OF CARE COORDINATION AND COLLABORATION (9 points): Describe at least three external agency relationships (formal or informal) where you regularly coordinate services, referrals, outreach and/or resources to improve the standard of care and client outcomes goals. (up to 200 words)

7. COORDINATED ASSESSMENT PARTICIPATION (9 Points): Describe how your agency will integrate and participate in the TCHC Coordinated Assessment System. What percentage of your newly enrolled households will be prioritized through Coordinated Assessment? (up to 200 words)

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8. PERFORMANCE MEASURES (7 POINTS): If your agency is currently funded for an ESG or CoC Rapid Rehousing program, please identify the specific performance outcomes and the related HMIS reports used to measure them. If not currently funded, provide performance outcome information on a similar homeless program. (Up to 150 words)

9. RENTAL ASSISTANCE SUBSIDY MODEL (not scored): Describe which of the CoC Rental Subsidy Models your agency will utilize in its program and how it will continually evaluate household income, utilize progressive engagement strategies, and work with participants and landlords in identification of affordable housing and preventing eviction. (Up to 150 words)

RENTAL ASSISTANCE

SUBSIDY MODEL

Rent to be Paid by Program Participant

Maximum Amount of Rental Assistance

Received

Maximum Number of Months of Rental

Assistance

Maximum Number of Months in Case

Management

*Income Based

Subsidy

30% of Adjusted Gross household Income. $50 minimum

Monthly Rent less $50.

12 months (Short Term or Medium Term Programs)

24 months

Gradual Declining Subsidy

0% months 1-350% months 4-675% months 7-9100% months 10-24

100% months 1-350% months 4-625% months 7-9

9 months (Medium Term Programs Only)

24 months

*Note: the TX-601 Continuum of Care Board of Directors will consider at change in the policy at the September 30, 2015 Board Meeting. Applicants are allowed to review the TCHC website at www.ahomewithhope.org for additional information before submitting final proposal.

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Proposal Narratives for NEW Permanent Supportive Housing for the Chronically HomelessScoring: eSNAPS Application & Proposal Completeness: 15 Points Proposal Narratives: 52 Points

1. ENDING CHRONIC HOMELESSNESS – Prioritization of Persons with the Highest Level of Service Needs (6 points): Describe your agency’s outreach plan to engage unsheltered and emergency shelter providers to identify, coordinate and house those who are chronically homeless. (Up to 150 words)

2. SUPPORTIVE SERVICES (5 points): PSH projects should maximize the amount of HUD CoC funding used for housing related costs. What specific non-HUD resources will be used to provide supportive services for the clients served? How will your agency connect participants to community based resources? (Up to 150 words)

3. MAINSTREAM BENEFITS (7 points):

a. How will your agency assure participants are connected to resources as provided within the Affordable Care Act (ACA). (Up to 150 words)

b. Describe how your agency systematically screens clients for application for cash and non-cash benefits, secures transportation necessary to complete such applications and make appointments, and follows up to assist successful receipt of these benefits. (Up to 150 words)

4. HOUSING FIRST (9 points): Describe your agency’s experience in operating a successful housing first program, and clearly describe a program design that meets the definition of Housing First as described on page 10 in the FY15 CoC Program NOFA. (Applicants must also include answers to the Housing First related questions located in Section 3B on the electronic application in e-snaps) (Up to 200 words)

5. CONTINUUM OF CARE COORDINATION AND COLLABORATION (9 points): Describe at least three external agency relationships (formal or informal) where you regularly coordinate services, referrals, outreach and/or resources to improve the standard of care and client outcomes goals. (up to 200 words)

6. COORDINATED ASSESSMENT PARTICIPATION (9 Points): Describe how your agency will integrate and participate in the TCHC Coordinated Assessment System. What percentage of your newly enrolled households will be prioritized through Coordinated Assessment? (up to 200 words)

7. PERFORMANCE MEASURES (7 POINTS): If your agency is currently funded for a CoC Housing program, please identify the specific performance outcomes and the related HMIS reports used to measure them. If not currently funded, provide performance outcome information on a similar homeless program. (Up to 150 words)

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Proposal Narratives for RENEWAL PSH, RRH, TH and Safe Haven ProjectsSCORING:eSNAPS Application & Proposal Completeness: 15 PointsProposal Narratives - 65 points

ALL PROJECT TYPES:

1. SUPPORTIVE SERVICES (5 points): All projects should maximize the amount of HUD CoC funding used for housing related costs. What specific non-HUD resources will be used to provide supportive services for the clients served? How will your agency connect participants to community based resources? (Up to 150 words)

2. MAIN STREAM BENEFITS (7 points): a. Describe how your agency systematically screens clients for application for cash and

non-cash benefits, secures transportation necessary to complete such applications and make appointments, and follows up to assist successful receipt of these benefits. (Up to 150 words)

b. How will your agency assure participants are connected to resources as provided within the Affordable Care Act (ACA). (Up to 150 words)

3. HOUSING FIRST (9 points): Describe your agency’s experience in operating a successful housing first program, and clearly describe a program design that meets the definition of Housing First as described on page 10 in the FY15 CoC Program NOFA. (Applicants must also include answers to the Housing First related questions located in Section 3B on the electronic application in e-snaps) (Up to 200 words)

4. CONTINUUM OF CARE COORDINATION AND COLLABORATION (9 points): Describe at least three external agency relationships (formal or informal) where you regularly coordinate services, referrals, outreach and/or resources to improve the standard of care and client outcomes goals. (up to 200 words)

5. INNOVATIVE SERVICE DESIGN (5 points): Describe a service innovation, partnership or program enhancement you have implemented that has been adopted by other CoC partner agencies. (Up to 150 words)

PSH PROJECTS ONLY6. ENDING CHRONIC HOMELESSNESS – Prioritization of Persons with the Highest Level of Service

Needs (6 points): Describe your agency’s outreach plan to engage unsheltered and emergency shelter providers to identify, coordinate and house those who are chronically homeless. (Up to 150 words)

7. ENDING CHRONIC HOMELESSNESS – Coordination of Service (6 points): Describe your hand-off process when coordinating with street outreach and emergency shelter staff to house a chronically

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homeless client. Also, please describe how you provide transportation to clients when searching for housing. (Up to 150 words)

RRH & TH PROJECTS ONLY8. ENDING FAMILY/YOUTH HOMELESSNESS (6 points): Describe your agency’s outreach plan to

engage unsheltered and emergency shelter providers to identify, coordinate and house homeless households with children. (Up to 150 words)

9. EDUCATIONAL ASSURANCES (6 points): Describe how your agency will collaborate with local education authorities to ensure all children are enrolled in early childhood programs or in school and connected to appropriate services in the community. How will your agency actively collaborate with local school districts and early childhood education or childcare providers? (Up to 150 words)

RRH PROJECTS ONLY10. RRH RENTAL ASSISTANCE SUBSIDY MODEL (not scored): Describe which of the CoC Rental Subsidy

Models your agency will utilize in its program and how it will continually evaluate household income, utilize progressive engagement strategies, and work with participants and landlords in identification of affordable housing and preventing eviction. (Up to 150 words)

RENTAL ASSISTANCE

SUBSIDY MODEL

Rent to be Paid by Program Participant

Maximum Amount of Rental Assistance

Received

Maximum Number of Months of Rental

Assistance

Maximum Number of Months in Case

Management

*Income Based

Subsidy

30% of Adjusted Gross household Income. $50 minimum

Monthly Rent less $50.

12 months (Short Term or Medium Term Programs)

24 months

Gradual Declining Subsidy

0% months 1-350% months 4-675% months 7-9100% months 10-24

100% months 1-350% months 4-625% months 7-9

9 months (Medium Term Programs Only)

24 months

*Note: the TX-601 Continuum of Care Board of Directors will consider at change in the policy at the September 30, 2015 Board Meeting. Applicants are allowed to review the TCHC website at www.ahomewithhope.org for additional information before submitting final proposal.

TH PROJECTS ONLY11. TH Serving ONLY INDIVIDUALS (6 points): TH providers should describe, given that their clients are

ineligible for PY15 CoC PSH and RRH funded programs:

a. How you will connect persons to permanent housing upon exit. (Up to 150 words)

b. How you will address these unique housing barriers of specific subpopulations served and successfully rapidly transition them to appropriate permanent housing. (Up to 150 words)

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c. Describe the number and types of eligibility requirements necessary to enter your program. (Up to 150 words)

APPENDIX A: Housing Barrier AssessmentIn addition to the Housing First related questions in e-snaps, the CPRC may review the following Housing Barrier Assessment in the process of reviewing and ranking applications.

OVERALLThe term “Housing First” is used to describe the program.Policies clearly delineate that the program is operating under “Housing First” principles as defined by the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness.

ADMISSIONApplicants are accepted regardless of their use of substances, compliance with treatment Participation in services is not a condition of program entry.Poor credit history, rental history, criminal background, or other “housing readiness” behaviors will not be considered barriers to housing assistance.Applicants are not required to have income prior to admission.Programs must exhaust all housing options for applicants presenting with any barriers to housing, and every effort should be made to avoid continuing an applicant’s homelessness.

SERVICE DELIVERY Engagement and problem-solving are emphasized over therapeutic goals.Service plans are tenant-driven without predetermined goals.Participation in services is not a condition of permanent supportive housing tenancy.

DISCHARGEUse of alcohol and drugs in and of itself is not a reason to evict a tenant.Tenants’ eviction cannot be for failure to follow through with supportive services or a treatment plan.Tenants may be evicted from the housing program only for serious program violations defined in written policies that are aligned with HUD prescribed Housing First guidance and/or rental property lease violations.Tenant must be informed of actions that could possibly cause termination from housing during intake, at recertification, and at any point of substantive change to the termination policy during program participation as verified by tenant signing an acknowledgment document to verify receipt of the termination policy.

The following are RECOMMENDED elements in a Housing First program’s written policies:ADMISSION

Applicants are waitlisted and accepted in order of their vulnerability according to the VI-SPDAT and their total time spent homeless.Applicants are screened, waitlisted, and accepted using the local Coordinated Assessment HMIS tool.

SERVICE DELIVERYTenants are systematically assessed, and engaged with, treatment options of their choice.

DISCHARGEEvery effort is made to offer a transfer to a tenant from one housing situation to another, if a tenancy is in jeopardy. Whenever possible, eviction back into homelessness is avoided.

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To the greatest extent practicable, upon the tenant’s exit the service provider will develop and communicate a comprehensive discharge plan for securing or maintaining permanent housing.

Applicant Attestation

I understand and agree:

_____

Initial

Time is of the essence in all aspects of the Continuum of Care Program, including the application, the RFP and ongoing reporting requirements: our organization will meet all deadlines and work quickly to correct deficiencies, provide requested information, and support the community-wide application process and implementation of the program.

_____

Initial

Corrections, clarification, updates, and supplemental information will be posted to the TCHC website throughout the application process; therefore, our organization will regularly review the content on the webpage, http://www.ahomewithhope.org/funding-opportunities/.

_____

Initial

It is our responsibility to contact TCHC if changes in the contact information for the point of contact for this application are needed.

________________________ __________________________ ____________________

Printed Name & Title Signature Date

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