FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – Cumberland County is seeking proposals from qualified providers to partner in establishing White Flag shelters during extreme weather conditions. The county has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for potential vendors who can assist in providing vital shelter services for vulnerable populations during severe cold weather.
White Flag shelters will be activated when the temperature and/or wind chill are forecasted at 32 degrees or below. Cumberland County experienced approximately 39 White Flag days during the previous winter season (Nov. 1, 2023 – March 31, 2024) and anticipates around 35 days each year from December to March.
Key Dates:
All interested vendors, including service providers, nonprofit organizations, and competitive providers, are encouraged to participate. Responses may be submitted individually or in partnership with other organizations.
Instructions for Vendors:
- Vendors are required to read and understand the RFP documentation. Questions should be directed to Heather Skeens, Assistant County Manager, at hskeens@cumberlandcountync.gov by the deadline.
- An interest meeting will take place at Cumberland County Community Development, 707 Executive Pl., Fayetteville, N.C. 28301.
- Responses must be emailed to hskeens@cumberlandcountync.gov by the specified deadline, with the subject line clearly indicating “RFQ 2024 - White Flag Shelter.”
Response Requirements:
Vendors are expected to provide detailed information including organizational background, shelter capacity, eligibility criteria, service commitments, and budgetary considerations. Complete guidelines are outlined in the RFP document, which can be accessed on the Cumberland County Vendor Self Service Site www.cumberlandcountync.gov/departments/finance-group/finance-services/procurement/bids-notices.
Cumberland County reserves the right to finalize agreements with one or more vendors based on the submissions received, and all communications should be directed only to the designated contact person.
For more information, contact Heather Skeens at hskeens@cumberlandcountync.gov.
This press release aims to inform potential vendors and the public about the RFP process for White Flag shelter services, emphasizing the importance of community partnerships in addressing critical shelter needs during extreme weather.