Primary Department: Purchasing
Primary Department Head/Elected Official: Kimberly J. Williams, JD
Secondary Department: Public Health Services
Secondary Department Head/Elected Official: Leah Barton
Regular or Supplemental RCA: Regular RCA
Type of Request: Contract - Renewal
Project ID (if applicable): 250172
Vendor/Entity Legal Name (if applicable): Harris County Domestic Violence Coordinating Council
MWBE Contracted Goal (if applicable): N/A
MWBE Current Participation (if applicable): N/A
Justification for 0% MWBE Participation Goal: N/A - Goal not applicable to request
Grant Indirect Costs Rate (if applicable):
Justification for 0% Grant Indirect Costs Rate (if applicable): Choose an item.
Request Summary (Agenda Caption):
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Request for approval of a renewal option with Harris County Domestic Violence Coordinating Council for domestic violence assistance fund for Public Health Services for the period of October 1, 2026 - September 30, 2027, at a cost of $1,500,000 (250172).
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Background and Discussion:
Reports of domestic violence increased locally during the COVID-19 pandemic, with women of color and other marginalized populations experiencing disproportionate impacts. Harris County continues to face a high turn-away rate for domestic violence shelter services, with more than 70% of callers unable to access emergency shelter beds due to limited capacity. Of approximately 1,100 households assessed annually for domestic violence housing services, only about 200 are successfully housed.
The Domestic Violence Assistance Fund (DVAF) provides vital, flexible financial support to survivors by awarding funds to qualified community-based organizations. Recognized as a "life-saving" resource by survivors and service providers, flexible funding enables individuals to meet immediate safety and basic needs necessary to leave abusive situations and stabilize. Eligible uses include housing, transportation, childcare, utilities, and other urgent expenses...
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