The New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH) has released a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the operation of two Enhanced Scattered Site Supportive Housing programs targeted at young adults aged 18 to 25 with Serious Mental Illness (SMI). These programs aim to support young adults transitioning from institutional settings, foster care, or homelessness, enabling them to access behavioral health services, community resources, and educational or vocational opportunities. The initiative is part of OMH’s broader mission to improve community-based mental health services across New York State.
This funding opportunity will support the development of two 25-bed supportive housing programs. One award will be made in either Albany County or Schenectady County (Capital District), and the second in either Rockland County or Erie County. The programs are designed to provide permanent housing; however, participants must transition to adult housing by age 26. Individuals admitted after their 23rd birthday may stay for up to three years. The model includes enhanced services tailored to young adults’ developmental needs and includes staffing for a Program Manager with clinical experience, a Case Manager, a Psychiatric Rehabilitation Specialist, and a Peer Support Specialist.
Eligible applicants are not-for-profit agencies with 501(c)(3) incorporation and demonstrated experience serving young adults with SMI in licensed or funded programs. Applicants must be prequalified in the Statewide Financial System (SFS) and submit applications through the SFS portal. Each proposal must include a completed Appendix B operating budget and meet strict submission format requirements. All materials must be submitted by June 11, 2025, at 2:00 PM EST. There is a pre-submission deadline for questions on May 6, 2025, with responses posted by May 22, 2025. The anticipated award announcement will occur on July 15, 2025, and contracts are expected to commence on January 1, 2026.
OMH will evaluate proposals based on technical and financial criteria. The technical component includes assessment of program description, implementation plans, agency performance, DEI commitments, and financial readiness. Each proposal must score a minimum of 70 points out of 100 to be considered. Evaluators will also consider adherence to format guidelines and required documentation. Proposals will be scored, and contracts awarded to the highest scoring applicant in each regional category.
Key features of the Enhanced Supportive Housing model include a reduced case management ratio (1:20), vocational and educational support, real-world skill development, peer-led engagement strategies, and 24/7 support flexibility. Residents are encouraged to transition toward independence, with program staff supporting every stage of that journey. Funding covers rent stipends, staff salaries, enhanced services, and emergency expenses but excludes capital costs. Rental units must comply with occupancy regulations and integrate residents within community-based housing.
For questions, applicants must contact Amanda Szczepkowski, the designated Issuing Officer, via email at OMHLocalProcurement@omh.ny.gov. No telephone inquiries are allowed. All submission, prequalification, and registration instructions are detailed in the RFP and must be strictly followed to avoid disqualification.
