06926D0002-PantryLink Challenge

Background
The New York City Department of Social Services (DSS) through its Community Food Connection (CFC) Program is seeking proposals from qualified vendors to design and implement a scalable, participant-centered solution aimed at enhancing the City’s emergency food assistance system.
The goal is to transition from an allocation-based model to a voucher-based or credit-based food assistance model that empowers participants with direct purchasing power. This approach aims to expand food access, increase participant choice and dignity, and reduce operational inefficiencies within the emergency food network.

Work Details
The contract involves designing and implementing a voucher-based or credit-based food assistance model. Key deliverables include:
1. Creation of a voucher system for clients to purchase SNAP-eligible food items, infant care supplies, and personal hygiene products at participating retailers.
2. Onboarding clients selected by pantry providers into the pilot program.
3. Providing technical assistance to clients on how to utilize their vouchers.
4. Tracking activation and utilization of vouchers by clients.
5. Generating reports on pilot effectiveness for DSS evaluation purposes.
The pilot will enroll 400-600 households initially, with potential expansion based on evaluation outcomes.

Period of Performance
The anticipated contract term is from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2029, with an option to renew for up to three additional years.

Place of Performance
The services will be performed across New York City, specifically targeting all five boroughs.

Bidder Requirements
Proposals must demonstrate compliance with NYC's Community Hiring requirements for contracts exceeding $3 million in total value. Greater consideration will be given to proposals that incorporate the use of City of New York certified Minority/Women Owned Businesses (M/WBE). Vendors must have an account in PASSPort for proposal submission.