Community Connector at Food Banks RFQ

The Youth and Family Empowerment (YFE) Division of the City of Seattle Human Services Department (HSD) is seeking applications from HSD currently funded food banks interested in providing on-site information, referral, and application submission to social services for food bank clients. Agencies who are currently contracted with HSD to provide food bank services are eligible to apply. HSD seeks Seattle-wide geographic representation with services spanning all council districts. Approximately $733,000* is available from August 1, 2017 – December 31, 2018 through this RFQ.

Applicants must demonstrate need for Community Connectors to work with their food bank clients on location and that such services are lacking within their overall agency operations. Connections will be made to housing, employment and job readiness, Apple Health, nutrition, child care, utility assistance, and other social service programs. Returning food bank clients will receive follow-up consultations. Awarded food banks resulting from this Request for Qualification (RFQ) will become part of a pilot program cohort. This cohort will meet monthly and form a learning community where best and promising practices will be shared. HSD staff will provide technical assistance and facilitation throughout the 17-month contract period. Future funding is contingent upon performance, funding availability, and schedule of the next food and nutrition competitive funding process.