Essential Parenting Supports

RFP is tailored specifically for parents/caregivers with a suspected or documented I/DD or cognitive delay that may impact their ability to safely parent. The ACS Developmental Disabilities Unit (DDU) partners with New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) providers to offer parenting skills training, one-on-one coaching, and linkages to supports and services for parents with a suspicion of and/or documented I/DD, including those with dual diagnoses of I/DD and other clinical needs. To be eligible for services, parents/caretakers must have a suspected or documented I/DD, some form of child welfare involvement, and reside within the five boroughs of New York City. OPWDD eligibility is not a pre-requisite for participation in the Essential Parenting Supports program. Contractors would assist parents with eligibility referral and OPWDD enrollment as needed. Regardless of OPWDD eligibility or enrollment status, parents would receive service coordination and linkages to community-based supports and services (e.g., adult Health Home). Essential Parenting Supports connects ACS-involved parents living with suspected or documented I/DD with parenting supports in a flexible, individualized manner that builds on parents strengths and engages them in their own development. Special Case Determination not required because procurement is for Client/Human Services and is the preferred method under PPB Rule 3-01(c).