Homeless Shelter Beds Services for Adults

It is the intent of the County to obtain proposals from qualified organizations for the provision of shelter beds for adults experiencing homelessness. The County is seeking proposals from agencies that currently provide shelter services. Proposals from all shelter providers located within Pinellas County will be considered. The ideal candidate(s) will demonstrate programs and successes in Housing First practices such as low barriers to shelter entry; participation in the Coordinated Entry System; rapid connection to permanent stable housing; service navigation; and financial and health stabilization.

On August 9, 2016, the County’s lead agency for the Homeless Continuum of Care, the Board of County Commissioners (Board) and local municipalities adopted a Housing First Resolution. This resolution formalized County support of the Housing First Model and the Coordinated Entry System for providing homeless services, placing a priority on implementing a low-barrier, Housing First philosophy toward accessing housing services, and use of a Coordinated Entry System for prioritization of clients in need of services. Coordinated Entry represents standardized access and assessment for all individuals and families, as well as a coordinated referral and housing placement process to ensure that people experiencing homelessness receive appropriate assistance with both immediate and long-term housing and service needs.

The Continuum of Care (CoC), through the lead agency, promotes community-wide commitment to the goal of ending homelessness; provides funding for efforts to quickly re-house homeless individuals and families to minimize trauma and displacement; promotes access to and effective utilization of mainstream programs; and optimizes self-sufficiency among individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Members of the CoC include elected and appointed individuals; homeless, healthcare, and social service providers; government agencies; local individuals and businesses; and individuals who have experienced homelessness.

In support of the CoC, Pinellas County Human Services will continue to administer agreements for Shelter Beds. These beds will provide emergency placement to help move unhoused citizens experiencing literal homelessness, living unsheltered and in areas not meant for habitation while they are connected to community resources including housing support, social services, and access to health care.