Title
a. Approve and authorize the Director of the Department of Social Services, or his designee, to sign an agreement with Peacock Acres Inc. for $295,000 to implement the Transitional Housing Program Plus (THP+) for eligible former foster and probation youth for the period July 1, 2014 through June 30, 2015; and
b. Authorize the Director of the Department of Social Services, or his designee, to sign up to three (3) amendments to this agreement, where the total amendments do not exceed 10% of the original contract amount, and do not significantly change the scope of work.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
a. Approve and authorize the Director of the Department of Social Services, or his designee, to sign an agreement with Peacock Acres Inc. for $295,000 to implement the Transitional Housing Program Plus (THP+) for eligible former foster and probation youth for the period July 1, 2014 through June 30, 2015; and
b. Authorize the Director of the Department of Social Services, or his designee, to sign up to three (3) amendments to this agreement, where the total amendments do not exceed 10% of the original contract amount, and do not significantly change the scope of work.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION
The agreement with Peacock Acres, Inc. provides Transitional Housing Program Plus (THP+) services to eligible former foster and probation youth through the Department of Social Services. The goal of THP+ is to reduce homelessness among former foster and probation youth, ages 18 to 24. THP+ is grounded on four key principles, which are certified in statute. They are: 1) Age-appropriate services to ensure THP+ youth are treated as adults; 2) Ensuring the program is distinct from foster care; 3) Allows participants the greatest amount of freedom possible; and 4) provides a strong emphasis on supportive services. THP+ has several distinct housing models to include scattered site, host family and single site models. All of these housing models may be incorporated in the Peacock Acres THP+ program plan. Since opening its doors in 2008, Peacock Acres THP+ has served 91 youth. Nearly 80% of these 91 youth came into the program in a condition of homelessness or near homelessness, or had experienced homelessness in the months prior to entering THP+.
Reviewing data from the 24 youth who have participated in THP+ foster care since January of 2013, shows that 88% entered THP+ in a condition of homelessness or near homelessness, or had experienced homelessness in the months prior to entering THP+. While in THP+, 62% of the 24 youth obtained or remained employed during their tenure in THP-Plus. Close to 50% of the 24 youth were enrolled in higher education and matriculating toward associates or bachelor's degrees while in the program. Of the 14 youth who have exited the program since January 2013, 11 (78%) exited, or transitioned into, stable housing.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
The Auditor-Controller and Purchasing have reviewed and approved this agreement. County Counsel has approved the agreement as to form.
FINANCING:
This agreement is funded with sales tax realignment funds. Sufficient appropriations and estimated revenues in SOC001 are included in the FY 2014-15 Adopted Budget. There is no impact to the County General Fund.
Prepared by: Ginger Pierce, Management Analyst III, X8784
Approved by: Elliott Robinson, Director of Social Services, X3480
Attachments:
Peacock Acres, Inc. Agreement 2014/15
Original on file with Clerk of the Board