Please note: This is a Sole Source Notification. In order to continue to provide services to disabled consumers, it was necessary to equip many of them with sufficient IT hardware and software to enable them to access MRC counselors, as well as health care providers and other Commonwealth resources. Consumers also required sufficient training to use the IT equipment, and in many cases, the related accommodation software solutions, such as Jaws or Dragon. The services were required immediately, as delay would have created an unacceptable risk to the health, safety and general welfare of the agency’s consumers. Therefore, MRC issued an emergency contract to UCP of Western Massachusetts, CTMRCEMERTECHSUPPUCP, for the period 10/12/20-6/30/2021. In June of 2021, the need for ongoing emergency technology support was evaluated. At the inception of the emergency contract, it was hoped that remote working conditions related to the COVID-19 pandemic would be of short duration. In actuality, disabled consumers, already disproportionately affected by the disruption to transportation, education, health care and education services, continue to have a pronounced need for both IT resources, and training support. It is anticipated that this need will continue at least through September 30, 2021.
