Board extends refuge contract for foster girls, directs RFP to broaden providers

The Board of Supervisors voted to extend a sole‑source contract with the Refuge — a short‑term residential therapeutic program serving Alameda County foster youth — while launching a request for proposals to identify additional providers and expand bed capacity.

Andrea Ford, director of the Social Services Agency, told supervisors the Refuge is licensed by California Community Care Licensing and that the amendment would add beds by creating a second house. Ford said the Refuge had served 152 Alameda County female youth since 2024 and that staff would provide intake counts and related data to supervisors later in the week.

Supervisor Tam said she supported issuing an RFP because several licensed organizations could provide similar services. Kimberly Gasolade, GSA director, explained a well‑run RFP process typically takes four to six months, with 12 months more realistic to allow outreach, evaluation and time to address potential protests and board scheduling.

Supervisor Fortunato Bass moved — and the board seconded — a motion to extend the refuge contract for up to 12 months on a prorated basis while running an RFP and providing regular updates to the social services committee. The roll call vote recorded ayes from the supervisors present.

Director Ford and staff committed to providing grievance procedures and intake numbers to supervisors, and agreed to frequent committee updates while the procurement and placement‑capacity work proceed.