Save THP-Plus!

Many efforts are underway around the state to PRESERVE THP-Plus, the state's only program providing housing and support for former foster youth ages 18 to 24. To recap, Governor Schwarzenegger has proposed eliminating THP-Plus entirely if his request for $7 billion in federal aid ultimately fails.

Journalist Daniel Heimpel of Fostering Media Connections has written a piece for the Huffington Post proposing a grassroots call to action to get the wide media exposure this issue merits. In the piece, Heimpel recounts the story of 19 year-old Suahmirs Rivera, a current THP-Plus participant whose incredible story of survival was told on Channel 10 News in San Diego and then picked up by Good Morning America. Getting national exposure of this story would have a profound impact so it was especially disappointing that GMA opted to drop the segment. Read Heimpel's blog post above, listen to Rivera's story, and then as Heimpel proposes, send a note to Good Morning America, urging the producers to run this important story.

Let's keep sending the message loud and clear: Save THP-Plus for the thousands of youth aging out of foster care in California.

Alameda County SSA Releases THP-Plus RFP

Alameda County Social Services Agency (SSA), Dept. of Children and Family Services, released a new request for proposals (RFP) for the procurement of Transitional Housing Program – Plus (THP+). A total of $2,600,000 has been allocated for this RFP for a 12 month award period beginning July 1, 2010 – June 30, 2011. The contract award is contingent upon receipt, by Alameda County, of adequate State funding. Community-Based Organizations and Public or Private, For-Profit or Non-Profit Agencies with experience are invited and encouraged to participate in this RFP process.

Click the following links for the complete Release Notice, Specifications, Terms & Conditions, and the Response Package and Attachments.