Title
a. Approve and authorize the Director of the Department of Social Services or designee to sign an agreement with Access Support Network (ASN) for the operation of a Homeless Outreach and Engagement Services System in the County of Monterey for the period of July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027, in the amount of $385,000; and
b. Authorize the Director of the Department of Social Services or designee to sign up to three amendments to this Agreement where the total amendments do not exceed 10% ($38,500) of the amended contract amount, do not significantly change the scope of work, and do not exceed the maximum aggregate amount of $423,500.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
a. Approve and authorize the Director of the Department of Social Services or designee to sign an agreement with Access Support Network (ASN) for the operation of a Homeless Outreach and Engagement Services System in the County of Monterey for the period of July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027, in the amount of $385,000; and
b. Authorize the Director of the Department of Social Services or designee to sign up to three amendments to this Agreement where the total amendments do not exceed 10% ($38,500) of the amended contract amount, do not significantly change the scope of work, and do not exceed the maximum aggregate amount of $423,500.
SUMMARY:
This contract provides for the operation of a Homeless Outreach and Engagement Services System providing an urgent response to engage and support individuals experiencing homelessness 7 days a week, from 9am to 5pm throughout the County of Monterey. The Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention Round Five (HHAP-5) Grant allocation is for $350,000 and an additional $35,000 in County Funds for a contract total of $385,000. This contract supports a collaborative effort with the local Continuum of Care provider, the Coalition of Homeless Services Providers (CHSP).
DISCUSSION:
Access Support Network (ASN) connects individuals to needed resources such as sheltering, social services, mental health, substance abuse treatment, medical health services, financial benefits, transportation, meals, emergency shelter, bridge housing, and long-term housing. The $35,000 in County Funds was previously approved during the budget process for the Department of Social Services (DSS) to provide resources for outreach staff such as motel vouchers, bus passes, and fuel cards to support program participants with their housing, health, and employment goals. In prior years, DSS purchased the resources directly and issued them to the contractor in batches, however the purchasing of the items will be transitioned to ASN to streamline the process. ASN provides intensive and persistent outreach to build trust with unsheltered clients to encourage them to accept services and develop a comprehensive housing plan. Best practices for homeless outreach include incorporating supportive services to ensure clients are successful with their housing plan.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT/COMMITTEE ACTIONS:
The Office of County Counsel has reviewed and approved the Agreements as to form, as has the Auditor-Controller’s Office as to financial provisions.
FINANCING:
This agreement is funded with Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention Round Five (HHAP-5) and County General funds. Sufficient appropriations and estimated revenues for SOC004 are included in the FY 2026-27 Recommended Budget.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS:
This agreement correlates to the Health & Human Services Strategic Initiative adopted by the Board of Supervisors by working towards the goals of the Lead Me Home Plan and HHAP-5 service objectives by providing shelter and services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
Mark a check to the related Board of Supervisors Strategic Plan Goals:
____ Well-Being and Quality of Life
____ Sustainable Infrastructure for the Present and Future
_X__Safe and Resilient Communities
____ Diverse and Thriving Economy
____ Dynamic Organization and Employer of Choice
____ Administrative
Prepared by: Adriana Narez-Tapia, Management Analyst III, x4447
Approved by: Roderick Franks, Director, x4430
Attachments: Agreement
The proposed agreement is on file with the Clerk of the Board as an attachment to this Board Report.