The Vermont Department for Children and Families’ (DCF) mission is to foster the healthy development, safety, well-being, and self-sufficiency of Vermonters. The Department is structured around six Divisions that deliver programs and services to Vermonters; one of those Divisions is the Family Services Division (FSD). FSD administers several programs that engage families, foster and kin caregivers, partner agencies and the community to ensure child and youth safety, well-being, and increase law abidance for Vermont youth. The Department for Children and Families’ Family Services Division (FSD) is responsible for the care and treatment of youth in the custody of the State, including those experiencing mental health crises. One of the RFP# FSD-CrisisRFP-1.24.25 Page 2 of 48 ways FSD meets this need is through acute crisis and stabilization programs for youth in DCF custody who have serious mental, behavioral, or emotional challenges. FSD is seeking to enter into a contract with a vendor to operate an up to three-bed crisis stabilization program located in the lower level of the Windham County Sheriff building serving youth in DCF custody with highly unique and acute needs. Treatment and support services shall be provided by the contractor and contractor staff shall actively engage with the team supporting the youth. Through the provision of services under this agreement, the Contractor shall assist the State in reaching the following goals: a. Reduce the need for longer term care for youth entering the program by providing immediate wrap around crisis stabilization services. b. Keep youth in crisis safe when no other resources are available. c. Increase the number of successful transitions of youth in DCF custody back to the home, community of origin, or to a less restrictive level of care.
