Pod Site Operator RFP

Washington County is requesting proposals from qualified organizations to provide SHS Shelter Operations at a permanent pod site for people experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness in Washington County. Through this procurement, the Department of Housing Services (DHS) is seeking a shelter operator(s) (“Supplier”) to contract with the County to provide services to support non-congregate shelter operation for up to 60 adult only households for couples and individuals. submit a response demonstrating their interest in and qualification for this project by November 6, 2025. The scope of this RFP includes shelter operations and services associated with operating shelter. Bidders should apply to supply shelter operations with the proven ability to provide all necessary services or to partner with service providers who can provide the necessary services. Bidders must be qualified providers of shelter and transitional housing services in Washington County per the Tri County RFPQ qualified providers list.

The pod site is yet to be determined. Upon the acquisition of the yet to be determined site by the Department of Housing Services, the site will be repurposed into a permanent safe rest village for up to 60 adult households. The site will provide private sleeping pods, hygiene facilities, laundry, a pet area, community space and communal dining area, and a smoking area. These activities will be completed separate from this procurement process.

The project is set to be completed in early 2026 (tentative) and the future pod shelter site will offer accessibility to public transportation, social services, and area resources. The Contract(s) for shelter operations will be issued directly as a result of this RFP process, such that the operator can tentatively begin providing shelter services in early 2026. Following this process, DHS will initiate contract negotiations with selected Supplier(s).

Washington County oversees the operations of a countywide homeless response system designed to address and prevent homelessness through services and supports that lead to housing stability. This work will be funded through resources from the regional Supportive Housing Services measure in partnership with Metro and state funding through the Oregon Housing and Community Services department.

The County has funded temporary pod villages to operate as shelter programs for three years which have demonstrated success in their contribution to our overall shelter system. This RFP is being offered to secure an operator for our pod shelter program long-term and ensure that this sheltering option and capacity remains a part of the homelessness system of care.