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REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
Funding for:
HOMELESS RESPONSE SYSTEM OPERATIONS AND HOMELESS
AND AFFORDABLE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS
Section 1: Purpose of Request for Proposals (REP)
1.1 INTRODUCTION
This REP covers requests for funding for both Homeless Response System (HRS) operations and
homeless and affordable housing capital development. 5386 and 1590 funds are available for the
operation of homeless and affordable housing services. 1590 funds are also available for the
construction of affordable housing units, including emergency housing, and first -year operations
of these facilities. Additional criteria for eligible projects are listed below.
Proposed projects must meet eligibility requirements under 2023's Senate Bill 5386 modifying
the distribution and uses of the homeless housing assistance surcharges in RCW Titles 36 and 84
and House Bill 1590 as codified in RCW 82.14.530.
We estimate the available funding for this period to be approximately $250,000 for 5386
Homeless Housing and Assistance (operating) funds; $720,000 for 1590 Affordable and
Supportive Housing development funds and first year operating funds; and $480,000 for 1590
Affordable and Supportive Housing operating funds. Note that 1590 operating funds may be
used for all housing -related services.
1.2 FUNDING PERIOD
The HFB is requesting proposals for HRS Operations and Homeless and Affordable Housing
Development Projects. Funding under this grant program is allocated for a 12-month period. The
period of performance for services solicited under this RFP begins 1/1/2027 and ends
12/31/2027. Initial funding is not an assurance or guarantee of ongoing operations funding after
the contract period. Proposers are cautioned not to assume a commitment of future funding based
on the receipt of funds in prior years.
1.3 AFFORDABLE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT, 1590 FUNDS
The project must meet eligibility requirements under Senate Bill 5386 and House Bill 1590 and
RCW 82.14.530
Funding for Affordable and Supportive Housing in accordance With House Bill 1590 and RCW
82. 14.530
Development (and first year operations): A minimum of sixty percent of this fund must
be used for the following eligible uses:
a. Constructing affordable housing, which may include new units of affordable
housing within an existing structure, and facilities providing housing -related
services, solely for eligible households (as defined below); or
b. Constructing mental and behavioral health -related facilities; or
c. Funding the operations and maintenance costs of new units of affordable housing
and facilities where housing -related programs are provided, or newly constructed
evaluation and treatment centers.
2. Operations: The remaining proceeds shall be used for the operation, delivery and
evaluation of mental and behavioral health treatment programs and services or housing -
related services.
3. No more than ten percent of the proceeds may be used to supplant existing local funds.
4. For purposes of this provision, "eligible households" means persons within any of the
following population groups whose income is at or below sixty percent (60%) of area
median income (AMI):
a. Persons with mental illness
b. Veterans
c. Senior citizens
d. Homeless (or at -risk of being homeless) families with children
e. Unaccompanied homeless youth or young adults
f. Persons with disabilities
g. Domestic violence survivors
1.4 HOMELESS HOUSING AND ASSISTANCE, 5386 FUNDS
1. In order to be eligible for services under these funds individuals served must:
a. Be persons meeting the definition of homeless under the legislation and persons
at -risk of homelessness such as:
i. Persons being evicted within a week from a private dwelling unit or
leaving an institution, such as a mental health or substance abuse treatment
facility or a jail/prison, with no subsequent residence identified and
lacking the resources needed to obtain housing.
ii. Persons fleeing domestic or family violence with no subsequent safe
residence identified and lacking the resources needed to obtain such
housing.
iii. Persons living on the streets or in emergency shelter but are spending a
short time (up to 30 consecutive days) in a hospital or other institution.
iv. Persons who would otherwise be living on the streets or in an emergency
shelter.
V. Households who are very low-income.
2. Eligible uses of these funds:
a. Rental and furnishing of dwelling units for the use of homeless persons.
b. Costs of developing affordable housing for homeless persons, and services for
formerly homeless individuals and families residing in transitional housing or
permanent housing and still at risk of homelessness.
c. Operating subsidies for transitional housing or permanent housing serving
formerly homeless families or individuals.
d. Services to prevent homelessness, such as emergency eviction prevention
programs including temporary rental subsidies to prevent homelessness.
e. Temporary services to assist persons leaving state institutions and other state
programs to prevent them from becoming or remaining homeless.
f. Outreach services for homeless individuals and families
g. Development and management of local homeless plans including homeless census
data collection; identification of goals, performance measures, strategies, and
costs and evaluation of progress towards established goals.
h. Rental vouchers payable to landlords for persons who are homeless or below
thirty percent (30%) of the area median income or in immediate danger of
becoming homeless.
i. Other activities to reduce and prevent homelessness as identified for funding in
the local plan.
j. Acquisition, construction or rehabilitation of housing projects or units within
housing projects that are affordable to very low-income households.
k. Supporting building, operation and maintenance costs of housing projects or units
eligible to receive housing trust funds, that are affordable to very low-income
households, and that require a supplement to income to cover ongoing operating
expenses.
1. Rental assistance vouchers for housing units that are affordable to very low-
income households.
m. Operating costs for emergency shelters and licensed overnight youth shelters.
Section 2: Proposal Evaluation and Selection Process
2.1 PROCESS OVERVIEW
The following procedure will be used to evaluate the proposals and select finalists.
All complete eligible proposals received within the established deadline will be evaluated by the
RFP Screening Panel —the Housing Fund Board (HFB). Proposals will be scored by each HFB
member. The combined totals guide funding awards, and the HFB will approach the specific
awards through a lens of equity, diversity and inclusion.
There will be an opportunity to ask questions on the RFP before the submittal deadline. After
submission and prior to scoring, the panel may ask technical questions after initial review of the
proposal and prior to scoring.
2.2 PROPOSAL SCREENING PANEL
The Housing Fund Board will be the RFP Screening Panel. All HFB members will disclose any
potential connections and recuse themselves from any conflict of interest, not scoring any
conflicted applications. Board service will be disclosed but is not per se a conflict.
2.3 PROPOSAL EVALUATION
Applicants whose proposal is being considered for an award may be invited to make an oral
presentation of their proposal to the HFB.
The HFB will review responses to the questions in the three RFP application sections on project
approach, impact, and budget and award points based on these responses. Each section is worth
10 points for a total potential award of 30 points per proposal.
The HFB reserves the right to recommend funding for multiple contracts under this RFP or
recommend funding for a portion of the requested amount at their discretion.
Section 3: Instructions and Timelines
3.1 SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Proposal Deadline:10/16/2026 by 4pm
All responses to this Request for Proposal should be submitted on the provided application form.
Please submit an electronic PDF version of the proposal e-mailed to Carolyn Gallaway at
carolyn(a,co.iefferson.wa.us. If electronic submission is not possible, please contact the County
Administrator's office at 360-385-9100 for accommodation.
The following should be in the email's subject line: "Proposal — Affordable and Homeless
Housing Funds."
It is very iMportant that your pplication is complete, signed, is for an eligible activi . , and
conforms to all programquirements. Applications not meeting all the requirements will not
receive consideration for funding.
Proposals MUST be received by 4pm on 10/16/2026. Late proposals will not be accepted.
Submittals made in an incorrect format will not be considered.
All responses to this Request for Proposal should be submitted on the provided application form.
3.2 PROPOSAL SELECTION TIMELINE
Request for Proposal Timeline for Funds
DATE
ACTIVITY
09/16/26
RFP first publication in paper
09/23/26
RFP second publication in paper
09/25/26
Questions from applicants at 2:30 PM
Zoom Meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/91098454388 (this link is
subject to change)
10/9/26
Technical assistance questions from application due via email.
Questions will be reviewed and answered by a subcommittee of the
HFB.
10/16/26
Proposals must be submitted by 4:00 pm
10/20/26
Proposals opened and distributed to HFB
10/28/26
HFB to make funding recommendations to the BoCC
11/09/26
BoCC takes action on HFB funding recommendations (subject to
change based on BoCC schedule)
November
Contracts to County Prosecutor and Risk Manager for approval
December
Contracts to Providers and returned to BoCC for signatures
Note — All dates are subject to change
3.3 DEFINITIONS
Definition of Area Median Income for Jefferson County
Affordable housing program eligibility is always determined by household income. Each
household's income is compared to the income of all other households in the area. This is
accomplished through a statistic established by the government called the Area Median Income,
most often referred to as AMI. The AMI is calculated and published each year by HUD.
In Jefferson County, HUD calculates the Sixty Percent (60%) Area Median Income ("AMI") for
a family of four as $64,200. Sixty Percent (60%) AMI for an individual is $44,940. Link:
hgps://www.huduser. gov/datasets/il/il2026/summga?year=2026&reportlype=county&states=5 3
&counties=5303199999&hmfa=METRO 10180M 10180
Definition of Very Low -Income
Very -low income is defined as households with income between 30%--50% of AMI. In Jefferson
County for 2026, this means $32,100-53,500 annually for a family of four.
FX 2026 Income Limits Summary
FY21}251ncome
Limit Area
Median
Family
Income
FY20261ncome
Limit Category
Persons in Family
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Jefferson County,
WA
$107,D00
Very Low (50No)
Income Limits
37,450
42,8D0
48,15D
53,500
57,SD0
62,100
66,350
70,650
{$1
Extremely Low
22,500
25,7D0
28,90D
33,000
38,690
44,36D
50,040
55,720
Income Limits
{�fx
Low {84°k).
Income Limits
59,950
68,5D0
77,05D
85,600
92,450
99,300
106,150
113,000
3.4 GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR APPLICANTS
a. Complete all parts of the application form and answer all questions on the
application. Incomplete applications will not be accepted and will not receive
funding consideration.
b. Be as specific as possible in stating goals, measures of success, objectives,
expected results, deliverables, etc. It is expected that there will be considerably
more requests for funds than there are funds available. Therefore, conciseness and
clarity of description are essential.
c. Any program receiving these funds must use them to provide services only within
Jefferson County boundaries.
d. Applicants that have received prior Affordable Housing and/or Homeless
Housing and Assistance Funds must be current on all required reporting,
including to state funders, to be eligible to receive funds. Applicants must
submit a copy of their 2026 Annual Expenditure Report to Commerce, if
applicable, as part of this requirement.
e. Grantees will be required to submit a written progress report midway through the
grant period and a written closeout report at the end of the funding period with
their final invoice. Failure to submit timely reports/progress data will result in
holding or non-payment of funds. These reports should include a comparison of
outcomes to date with those initially proposed. A fiscal and programmatic
monitoring visit may be conducted by the County during any project year. The
provider will make all project -related documents and files available for review.
f. Reimbursement of costs will be addressed in the grant agreement.
g. Jefferson County reserves the right to negotiate additional terms to the grant
agreement it deems necessary and appropriate to ensure compliance with funding
requirements as outlined in 2023's SB 5386, HB 1590, RCW 82.14.530, and
RCW 82.14.540.
h. Funding in previous years does not assure additional awards in this funding cycle.
i. Applicants may submit multiple proposals. It is preferred that proposals be limited
to either requests for funds for either capital development projects or operations
projects/programs.
3.5 BUDGET INSTRUCTIONS
Please use the attached budget templates. If you need additional space, you may insert rows.
"Proposal" refers to the funds requested from these funds that will be applied to this specific
project or program. Blank spaces are provided for additional categories. Justification for budget
items must be specific, and that same specificity should be reflected in subsequent billings.
A maximum 10% Administration fee is allowed for projects if needed, however, Administration
fees are not allowed for Capital Projects.
Sample Contract:
A sample contract may be found on Laserfiche at the following path:
https://test.co.i efferson.wa.us/WeblinkExternal/Browse.aspx?id=10141412&dbid=0
&repo=Jefferson www.co.iefferson.wa.us — Jefferson - Board of Commissioners -
Boards & Committees - Housing Fund Board - RFP 2026
2. Insurance Requirement:
Awardees will be required to meet all the County's insurance requirements, which are
included as Attachment A to this RFP.
APPLICATION
Funding for:
HOMELESS RESPONSE SYSTEM OPERATIONS AND HOMELESS
AND AFFORDABLE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS
Application Proposals must be RECEIVED by: 10/16/26 at 4:00 PM
Section 1: Applicant Information
1.1 APPLICANT INFORMATION
Area of
Domestic Violence
County to be
Emergency Shelter and
Name of Project or Program:
Supportive Services
Served:
Jefferson County
Total Amount
of
Development
Total Amount of Operating
Funds
Funds Requested:
$361, 736.00
Requested:
HMIS Project Number (if
applicable):
05330
Dove House Advocacy
Federal Tax
91-1195187
Name of Agency/Applicant:
Services
ID:
Contact Person:
Beulah Kingsolver
Title:
Executive Director
Address:
1045 101h St.
City:
Port Townsend
State:
WA
Zip:
98368
Phone Number:
360-385-5292
Fax Number:
beulahk(a�dovehouselc.or
9
Email:
1.2 CERTIFICATION
Certification by Authorized Agency Representative (Board President, C E0. or another per )n
authorized to bind the agency in a cont tact) -
Name of Authorized Agency Representatives
Beulah Kingsolver
ExectAve Director
Tit lc:
Applicant cenifieN that these funds will be used as described in this application unless a
change has been mutually agreed upon between Contractor and Jefferson County Board
of County Comniis�ioncrs. Substantive amendment requests will also regmye the
approval of the Housitig Fund Board (HFBy
• Applicant ceni#ics that the information in this application is true and correct-
• Applicant certifies that i1 has no outstanding obligations to the County with respect to
housing funds.
Signature of Authorized Agency Rcprescniative
10.15. 026
Date
1.3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
1. Name of rrujecL or Program:
Domestic Violence Emergency Shelter and Supportive
Services
2. Total Amount of Funding Requested:
$361,736
3. Provide a brief description of the project or program:
This project supports individuals needing emergency shelter and advocacy
services. Last year's project served approximately 91 individuals, including 31
heads of household and their children who are fleeing domestic violence and
experiencing homelessness. That number does not include the 30 families we
supported in hotels while the shelter was full. Support is provided with emergency
temporary shelter and emergency temporary hotel room stays with trauma -
informed, person -centered, wrap -around advocacy services. Services are
confidential and free of charge.
Our service model is designed to support survivors in obtaining long-term affordable
housing, strengthen their ability to keep the housing they obtain and move people
out of our temporary emergency shelter as soon as possible so that other victims
who are experiencing homelessness may come into the shelter. All shelter guests
are entered into the HMIS system.
Our advocates serve the whole family and use a Housing First model adapted for
serving victims. Each guest is matched with an advocate who offers emotional and
practical support beginning with safety planning. Advocates meet with each guest at
least once each week to support healing, assist them in identifying needs, barriers,
and goals, and connect and refer them to services and resources in our community.
Our program reduces or eliminates homelessness in Jefferson County by providing
domestic violence survivors with an immediate safe roof over their heads and 24-
hour access to facilities and resources.
4. Identify the specific eligible use(s) under 5386 and/or 1590 for which the Projector
Program qualifies, as listed in sections 1.3 and 1.4 of the RFP. If you are submitting for
both operating and development funds, please submit separate budgets for each.
a. 5386 OperatingF:
1. In order to be eligible for services under these funds individuals served must:
Be persons meeting the definition of homeless under the legislation and persons at -risk of
homelessness such as: Persons fleeing domestic or family violence with no subsequent safe
residence identified and lacking the resources needed to obtain such housing. Persons who
would otherwise be living on the streets or in an emergency shelter.
Households who are very low-income.
b. 1590 Development Funds:
c. 1590 OperatingFunds:
unds:
For purposes of this provision, "eligible households" means persons within any of the
following population groups whose income is at or below sixty percent (60%) of area
median income (AMI): Domestic violence survivors
Section 2: Approach (10 Points)
1. Specify the project or program goals and expected outcomes. (2 point)
The program is an Emergency Temporary Shelter for Victims of Domestic Violence.
Outcomes: Approximately 91 individuals, that include 31 heads of household and their children
who are fleeing domestic violence and experiencing homelessness will be sheltered in our
emergency shelter. We will also provide stays for 30 families in hotels while the shelter is full.
Measure: Infonet reports showing the number of people/families who enter our shelter and hotels.
Outcome: Approximately 185 individuals in shelter and hotels will be offered our full spectrum of
wrap -around services and complete Action Plans toward the goals of long-term safety and
affordable housing, financial stability, and healthy lives.
Measure: Infonet reports showing how many guests received which services. Review of client
Action Plans and goals reached.
Outcome: Keep shelter stays as short as possible.
Measure: Compare average number of days in shelter during the grant period to same periods in
the two previous Fiscal Years.
Outcome: Minimize turn aways when shelter is full and utilize hotel stays.
Measure: Compare average number of turn aways to previous Fiscal Year to track data.
Outcome: Shelter guests move directly from shelter to affordable long-term or transitional
housing.
Measure: Infonet reports
Outcome: Increase self-sufficiency, financial stability, and well-being
Measure: Review of clients' Action Plans/goals reached. Client feedback about whether or
not/how much their confidence and ability to plan for their safety has increased; whether or
not/how much their knowledge of community resources has expanded; whether or not/how much
their feeling of hopefulness about their future has improved; whether or not/how much they feel
more comfortable about asking for help; and whether or not/how much they feel more comfortable
in their decision making.
2. Coordinated Entry
Outcome: All shelter guests entered into HMIS.
Measure: Compare the number of clients entered into HMIS to the number of people who stayed
in the shelter during the grant period.
• Specify the number of units of housing to be created or number of individuals who will be
served by the Project or Program.
Approximately 185 will be served by the program.
2. Briefly describe how the project aligns with and contributes to the priorities, goals and
actions of the 2025-2030 Jefferson County Homeless & Affordable Housing Services
Plan. The Plan is available for viewing at
https://www.co.j efferson.wa.us/DocumentCenter/View/23 792/2025-2030-Homeless-
Housing-Plan?bidld= (2 points)
Dove House can quickly identify and engage people experiencing homelessness. DHAS
participates in the HMIS system. In addition, our 24/7 crisis line provides a way for victims
of violence who are homeless to connect with emergency services, including our shelter.
Our project aligns with emergency housing on page 10 that provides immediate, very short-
term shelter during a crisis.
Dove House aligns with priorities of the 2025-2030 Jefferson County Homeless &
Affordable Housing Services Plan by prioritizing wages with the goal of paying a livable
wage and offering benefits that include paid for health care including mental health. This
enables staff to do self -care while talking care of clients. Dove House offers diverse training
opportunities throughout the year. This enables staff to feel confident in helping navigate
with client lead services while ensuring safety. Training and empowering staff while paying
them a livable wage is shown to be effective by retaining staff for an average of seven
years. This strengthens the homeless service provider workforce.
While participating with CoC and using the vulnerable assessment tool we are promoting
an equitable, accountable and transparent homeless crisis response team. Part of the crisis
response is maintaining our 24/7 crisis line and responding to those leaving domestic
violence situations who are at the greatest risk of harm. This creates stability for the
individual by eliminating isolation and having social connection in time of need. By creating
safety plans that can include orders of protection we sometimes are able to prevent
episodes of homelessness. Certain funding allows us to use emergency financial
assistance to support them in their home until they are stable. By providing crisis care and
then ongoing support it reduces the worsening of mental and physical health.
3. Describe any collaborations that informed the development of this project, including
participation in Housing Fund Board and Continuum of Care activities. (2 points)
Dove House was started in a grassroots movement in 70's to have safe housing for those
leaving domestic violence situations before many of these new programs started. It grew
into providing not only a safe house, but advocacy support. The program has been through
many changes and has been able to not only continue but grow support for clients with
prioritizing the best practices that emerge. We attend housing meetings and one of our
program managers sat on the task force to help collaborate the 2025-2030 Jefferson
County Homeless & Affordable Housing Services Plan. We currently have a program
manager that sits on the Coordinated Entry Advisory Board for adults in partnership with
OlyCap, Jefferson Public Health, CARES, and other housing providers. We also have a
youth advocate that sits and participates on the youth coordinated entry board in
partnership with OlyCap and OWL360. In partnership with CoC Dove House helped create
the Coordinated Entry Vulnerability Assessment Tool and Process. The purpose of this tool
is to assess and prioritize households experiencing homelessness. It ensures low barrier
access to coordinate entry process seeking to continually identify households and reduce
barriers while prioritizing those with the highest vulnerability. All appropriate housing
information is entered into HMIS.
4. Describe the engagement and participation of lived experts in this project's development.
romts
We have weekly shelter meetings to have the opportunity to have feedback and change. A
few changes that were made with these talks were individual locks were put on each door
that is coded for that family to have privacy and the ability to keep items securely in their
rooms. This is not an overnight shelter, but a place to live safely while navigating next steps
while receiving support. Each room has individual thermostats in bedrooms to have control,
and all bathrooms have handheld showers. This was feedback from moms that live in
shelter and was easier for children to have control while bathing. This feedback not only
comes from weekly meetings, but surveys that are completed when leaving shelter. We
continue working with individuals once they have left the shelter no matter where they have
chosen to live. We are client -led and do not have limits on time of services as on average it
takes 7 attempts to leave an abusive relationship before doing so permanently. This can be
ongoing support and we receive ongoing feedback. They can also continue services after
leaving shelter with continuing support with classes or ongoing advocacy services. Our
shelter is pet friendly as it has been reported by lived experts, they will not leave a violent
situation without their pet. Children have reported how a pet can bring comfort to them
while living in shelter. These pets have been dogs, cats, lizards, fish, and rodents. It is
important for victims of domestic violence to be able to bring their pets with them for safety.
We have had many clients return as volunteers once they have regained stability enabling
ongoing feedback opportunities to refine services. We also supported domestic violence
survivors to give their experience and knowledge in developing Homeless and Affordable
Housing Services Plan.
5. Provide a brief description of expertise and/or recent, relevant and successful experiences
in delivering similar programs and/or projects, including ability, stability and resources to
implement this project or program. (2 points)
Dove House Advocacy Services has been supporting survivors of domestic violence for
over 40 years. Our Emergency Domestic Violence Shelter and Services program is
exclusively for unsheltered homeless individual/families victimized by domestic violence.
Youth ages 18-24 are directly eligible for/served by these services. Those younger than 18
may receive these services when accompanied by a parent or when their parent agrees to
allow them to access the services unchaperoned.
Our program provides 100% of basic needs to shelter/hotel guests. When they are not
spending most of their energy/time simply meeting basic needs, their stress and anxiety are
reduced and they can focus on emotional healing, identifying/addressing barriers toward
increased self-sufficiency, and accessing the resources needed to achieve their goals
including permanent affordable housing.
We engage every available avenue to assist clients in acquiring skills and resources to
avoid remaining/returning to homeless(ness) and to find and keep affordable, permanent
housing. This includes teaching housing search strategies; addressing prior evictions;
supporting clients in job and childcare searches; identifying all subsidy and low-income
housing options and other affordable options; encouraging property owners to work with us;
helping clients with applications; tracking applications; providing move -in assistance; and
continuing to support clients after they have moved into their dwelling.
We dedicate fundraising efforts to maximize clients' success. We place priority on
preventing homelessness and keeping families in their existing housing, when safe and
feasible and ensuring that guests in our emergency shelter can move directly to permanent
affordable housing (if they wish) as soon as it can be obtained, rather than remaining
homeless.
Clients in this program meet with their Advocate at least once a week and actively work
toward obtaining permanent or transitional housing. While the realities of the severe
housing emergency in Jefferson County make it challenging, we prioritize helping all guests
to obtain their next best step for housing as quickly as possible in order to make
emergency/temporary shelter available for other victims in need.
We participate in coordinated entry and the HMIS System.
Section 3: Impact (10 Points)
1. What services will be funded?
This fund will financially support the emergency/temporary shelter to individuals/families
(and approved pets) fleeing domestic violence who lack safe shelter. Each guest is
matched with an Advocate who offers options for emotional healing and practical problem
solving. Shelter guests have 24-hour access to their private room/fully stocked bathroom;
fully stocked/equipped kitchen; laundry room; common areas; internet access). We provide
100% of basic needs during their shelter/hotel stay and offer them the full spectrum of
DHAS services/resources. Clients meet at least once/week with their Advocate and may
enroll in our classes/support groups (including financial management and trauma -informed
yoga). Our staff conduct ongoing case management and provide connection/referrals to
community resources (including therapy) as well as support in accessing them such as
transportation and childcare assistance. We have volunteer attorneys that use our space to
help clients.
Our housing advocacy is designed to help survivors remain safe and able to continue
building independent, self-sufficient, and fulfilling lives. We use the Housing First and Rapid
Re -housing models to support and inspire clients, create materials, train advocates, work
with landlords. Includes addressing prior evictions; identifying affordable rentals;
encouraging property owners to work with us (e.g. educating them about trauma, how
financial abuse is often part of the cycle of violence, how rent subsidy programs work, and
what support is available from DHAS); helping clients with application; tracking applications;
providing financial assistance for first/last rents and security deposits; sourcing move -in
resources; and continuing to support clients after they have moved into their dwelling.
Landlords often express interest in working with us when they learn of our ability to provide
the client with move -in costs in a timely manner and our commitment to continued support
services. We prioritize helping all guests to obtain their best next step for housing, whether
it be permanent or transitional, after they leave the shelter/hotel.
Emergency shelter is vital for domestic violence victims. When not spending most of their
energy/time simply meeting basic needs, their stress/anxiety are reduced and they can
focus on emotional healing, identifying and addressing barriers toward increased self-
sufficiency, and accessing the resources needed to obtain, and retain, permanent
affordable housing.
Being able to have a place to have belongings, buy and keep food with access to a kitchen
to prepare food, a place to wash clothing, and a place to shower not only yourself, but their
children allow the worry of expenses to be limited. These funds give support and the ability
for victims of domestic violence to have basic amenities while putting pieces in place to
move forward in life.
2. How many individuals by demographic will be served by these funds? Describe how
this project supports the original target group or income level of your organization. (2
In the past year our shelter served over 91 individuals that were women, men and children. With the
demographic of population in Port Townsend being majority Caucasian that is the majority that lived
in the shelter. There were 29 that identified as Hispanic and 10 that stated as Native American and 3
Mixed Race. These demographics do not cover who was supported in a hotel. While Domestic
Violence affects all socioeconomic brackets, financial abuse occurs in roughly 99% of cases. With
this knowledge there are no financial requirements to whom we serve. Although the majority of
survivors we support are at the lowest income level. According to National Institutes of Health
studies show "there is a prevalence that women residing in the lowest income quartile in Washington
experience intimate partner violence at rates nearly three times higher than women living in the
highest income quartile." The cycle of poverty significantly heightens the risk of experiencing
domestic violence, while surviving domestic violence concurrently increases a person's risk of
falling into poverty. Financial strain, unemployment, and housing instability often act as severe
environmental stressors that exacerbate abuse," (Connections for Abused Women and their Children,
Socioeconomic Risk Factors for Domestic and Intimate Partner Violence, August 2024). "Economic
vulnerability makes it incredibly difficult for victims to flee dangerous situations and 73% of
survivors entering housing programs have reported a prior history of homelessness." (Washington
State Coalition Against Domestic Violence) and for low-income individuals' financial control with
ruining credit, racking up forced debit, blocking access to bank accounts, and no rental history
creates additional stress to a situation feeling not being able to leave.
If the shelter continues to see similar trends as individuals leave harm, we will continue to serve the
lower economic bracket that are mostly women and children after leaving a violent situation. We
will on average serve 186 humans at the shelter and continue hotel stays with the shelter is full. We
have seen an increasing number of Hispanic clients and believe this will continue with the current
political climate and the need for safety continues The shelter will serve survivors of domestic
3. How does this project serve marginalized populations and address risk of harm and
barriers to housing stability? What is your plan for continuous improvement in serving
uncterservect
Our shelter serves marginalized populations by providing a safe, supportive, and inclusive
environment for individuals and families experiencing abuse, particularly those facing additional
barriers due to poverty, racism, discrimination, disability, language differences, immigration status,
or LGBTQ+ identity. Our emergency shelter addresses the risk of harm by offering emergency
housing, safety planning, crisis intervention, trauma -informed counseling, advocacy, and
connections to legal, medical, and community resources. Our shelter also works to overcome barriers
to housing stability by helping survivors access financial assistance, employment resources,
childcare, transportation, and public benefits by working alongside an advocate. By recognizing the
unique challenges survivors face and providing culturally responsive, individualized support, we
empower individuals to regain independence, reduce their risk of further harm, and build a
foundation for long-term safety, housing stability, and overall well-being.
Women are widely recognized as a marginalized group because systemic barriers limit their access
to power, resources, and opportunities. Addressing this marginalization requires both structural
reforms and cultural change to ensure equality and inclusion across all areas of society. We provide
ongoing support to women to give their power back and to be a thriving individual that can
contribute to society. This is done with ongoing support and a place to find their voices, confidence,
and grow knowledge in places where it was taken away.
Our shelter also housed 29 individuals that identified as Hispanic descent. We have a Spanish
speaking advocate that enables a clear communication and after living in our shelter we were able to
move a few of these families into permanent housing. We will continue to partner with other
programs such as JCIRA to provide services to those that already have barriers. We will continue to
use the language line if we need that resource to enable any individual that does not speak English to
be able to come utilize our services.
4. Specify the measures of success by which the project or program will be assessed.
(2 points)
• Preventing deaths caused by Domestic Violence in Jefferson County.
• Monitor children's improvements emotionally and scholastically.
• Monitor the length of time in shelter
• How many individuals move from shelter into permanent or transitional housing
5. How would the project contribute to positive movement in Commerce's Homeless
System Performance Measures, including total project entries, length of time homeless,
exits to permanent housing, returns to homelessness, and system prioritization? (2 points)
The emergency domestic violence shelter contributes by providing a safe place for not only a parent
but children to go to make the goal of homelessness rare, brief, and hopefully a one-time occurrence.
All housing clients are entered into HMIS enabling the ability to track the number of people served
and their journey to permanent housing and work with other CoC partners to share data and prioritize
the most vulnerable. Dove House has a 24/7-hour crisis line to react to domestic violence calls and
secure quick emergency housing and begin working to provide supportive wrap around services.
These can include basic needs such as hygiene items, clothing, and food, legal support, therapy, and
financial assistance if able to keep in safe and stable housing or find permanent housing which
reduces recidivism and improves retention of permanent housing. During weekly staff meetings
clients, housing availability, and ongoing support needed with the most vulnerable are discussed
working with permanent housing providers to secure housing that fits with the individual. This can
vary as an example many have children and require more than 1 bedroom. We utilize financial
assistance when available to eliminate the return to homelessness and secure housing or keep
families in current homes. By continuing our 24/7 call line we can react quickly to crises which
ensures our reach into our community enabling us to shorten homelessness durations with hotel stays
and move into our shelter. We can improve permanent housing exits by keeping individuals in a safe
and stable home with protective orders or by moving them into housing after a shelter stay which
reduces homelessness. All these things align and directly advance positive movement in
Commerce's Homeless System Performance Measures and priorities
6. For operations programs, how does the proposed project or program demonstrate the
following priorities: Preservation of existing services and/or providing services to
underserved populations and/or populations not served in the same way elsewhere?
(2 Points
To preserve the only emergency family shelter in Jefferson County we need access to these funds.
We are not only an emergency shelter, but a place to enable families to live together. They can share
community space, shower, cook, and do laundry. These basic items can have a domino effect as
when it now costs $8 for a load of wash and dry at the laundry mat and a basic meal for one can be
over $25. When one is already homeless, the basic needs are an added stressor to the individual and
the community. The added cost of cleaning up garbage from clothing, bedding, and food can be
expensive financially and cost of labor to clean it all up. By being able to offer two kitchen spaces to
keep and cook food, two laundry rooms to do laundry, and with individual bedrooms and bathrooms
that are private for each family to shower and sleep the cost to live is substantially lower. They do
not have to pack up daily and move or begin to think about where they will go or where they will
store their belongings, where they will shower or use the restroom. The shelter is a place that enables
children to come back to the same place to develop consistency and work with the McKinney-Vento
homeless liaison in the school, giving them a safe space to grow, cook, and develop positive
childhood experiences. This can hopefully begin building resilience and safety and show a different
behavior and way in life. The domestic violence shelter is the only family shelter in Jefferson County
that provides the space to have "normal" experiences such as cooking a meal together, being able to
do laundrv, and sit and lust watch a movie together while being safe.
7. For capital development projects, how does the proposed project demonstrate "serving
the greatest need" as identified in Appendix D, Prioritization Criteria of Homeless
Housing Capital Projects, in the 2025-2030 Jefferson County Homeless & Affordable
Housing Services Plan. The list of populations shown as serving the greatest need is not
prioritized. (1 point Capital Project funding only)
N/A
8. For capital development projects, how many new units will be brought online? How
many existing units will be preserved? (1 point Capital Project funding only)
N/A
Section 4: Budget (10 Points)
4.1 FINANCIAL READINESS (2 points)
1. Is the Project or Program ready to use the funding now or are there actions to be taken
before the Project or Program can begin? If so, what are those actions?
Yes, the domestic violence shelter is up and running. No actions needed.
2. What other funds, donors, or community support are involved with the project? Identify
other sources of funds that would be leveraged with the requested funds and/or how these
funds will be used to leverage other tunds.
The Emergency Domestic Violence Shelter has funding from Individual Donations, foundations and
fundraising efforts. All funds are used for upkeep and use of the shelter such as utilities and
insurance. Also, client services that can include hotel vouchers, staff and benefits of advocates, food
and basic needs and therapy.
3. Will the requested funds, including funds from other sources, fully fund the Project or
Program? If not, how does the organization intend to fill the gap?
If this request is fully funded, including funds we have from other sources, the project will be fully
funded. If this request is not fully funded there are basics we cannot cut such as utilities, insurance,
etc. We would have to look at other funding sources and have a reduction in hotel stays when shelter
is full and therapy support for those living in our shelter.
4. Describe your staffing plan for this project including how many people will be assigned
to do this work and their availability? Will this project require new hires?
We are fully staffed and this project does not require new hires. Advocates meet with clients
living in shelter once a week to help build an action plan and identify housing resources and
overcome barriers to move into housing. The work does not stop as staff take turns in being on
call for the 24/7 crisis line and not only for clients but for the hospital when needing and advocate
for SANE exams or strangulation. This project includes 3 FTE.
4.2 FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY (2 points)
1. For capital development projects, how are the requested funds matched by operating
funds going forward? Specify the degree of matching support.
N/A
2. Briefly describe your plan for financial sustainability of the Project or Program.
We currently work with JCF, Give BIG, private donors, foundations sustainability. The agency has
been in place for over 40 years and will continue to be sustainable with navigating funding cuts and
pivoting to provide shelter to domestic violent survivors.
4.3 SCALABILITY (Non -scoring question)
1. Is the Project or Program scalable if all funding requested is not recurred? How would the
Project or Program be impacted?
No, this project is not scalable as closing the shelter is not an option. The only part of this project
that is scalable is to turn away individuals from hotels when the shelter is full and therapy.
4.4 REQUIRED ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTS (2 points)
Please attach the following items along with your RFP Application submission. Applications
without these documents may be deemed incomplete.
1. Please attach a current operating budget for the organization requesting the funding.
2. Also, if your organization is an HMIS participant, please attach a copy of your 2026
Annual Expenditures Report to Commerce.
4.5 CAPITAL PROJECTS BUDGET (4 Points Capital Project funding only)
1. Budget
Capital Budget for Real Estate Development Uses
Financing
Categories
Estimate
Basis of Estimate
Total Acquisition
Costs
$
Construction
Construction Fees
Financing Fees and
Charges
$
Guarantees and
Reserves
$
Developers Fee
$
Subtotal
$
TOTAL
$
2. Funding Sources
Financing Categories
Estimate
Indicate if Committed or Application has been made.
If not made indicate date application is to be
submitted
Private Loan
$
Jefferson County Funds
$
Public Sources (State or
Federal Funds)
$
Foundations
$
Donations
$
Low Income Housing
Tax Credits (indicate 9%
or 4%)
$
Historic Tax Credits
$
New Market Tax Credits
$
Gap (if any)
$
TOTAL
$
3. Narrative: Please include any budget narrative that is descriptive or helpful to explain any
part of your proposed expenditures in your capital budget(s).
4.6 PROGRAM OPERATING BUDGET (4 points Operating funding only)
1. Operating Budget
Program Operating Budget
Budget Categories
Program
Proposal
Justification
Priority
Salaries
$183,440.00
$183,440.00
Salaries for 3 FTE
1
Benefits
$64,711.00
$64,711.00
Benefits & Taxes for 3 FTE
1
Client Financial
Assistance
$10,000.00
$5,000.00
Financial Assistance for
Shelter Clients
3
Utilities
$14,400.00
$14,400.00
Utilities to run shelter
2
Insurance
$6,900.00
$6,900.00
Insurance for Shelter
2
Food/Supplies
$12,000.00
$5,000.00
Furnishings & Equipment for
Shelter
3
Emergency Hotel Stays
$21,700.00
$5,000.00
Hotels for when Shelter is full
3
Facilities
$30,400.00
$24,400.00
Maintenance/Janitorial/Landsc
aping
1
Therapy
$28,600.00
$20,000.00
Therapy once a week for 5
clients
2
Subtotal
$ 372,151.00
$328,851.00
Administration (10%
max.)
$37,215.00
$32,885.00
TOTAL
$ $409,366.00
$361,736.00
2. Staffing Budget
If your Project or Program includes salaries and benefits, please list position(s) and number of
full-time employees (FTE) to be paid by these funds (FTE should be that percentage of time the
employee is dedicated to this Project or Program —for example 20 hour a week, part-time salary
would be represented as 0.5 FTE):
Position
Salary
Benefits
FTE
Executive Director
$19,467
$5,274.45
.13
Program Manager
$59,820.90
$18,281.60
.70
Advocate
$50,500
$19,878.
.87
Advocate
$15,549.90
$6,043.50
.26
Facilities Manager
$20,475
$8,945.10
.39
Program Assistant
$9,327.40
$3,906.40
.17
Finance Manager
$8,300
$2,382.30
.09
3. Funding Sources (Please provide previous year funding if applicable)
All Funding Sources for the Program
Funding
Awards
Awards
Indicate if Committed
Sources
2026
2027
or Application has been
made.
Public Sources
$236,853.00
$361,736.00
This Application
(State or Federal
Funds)
Private
$53,000.00
$31,000.00
Estimated for 2026/2027
Donations
Foundation
$11,250.00
$9,000.00
Applied/Estimated for
Grants
2026/2027
Fundraising
$7,100.00
$7,500.00
Estimated for 2026/2027
Events
Other
$
$
Other
$
$
TOTAL
$308,203.00
$409,236.00
4. Narrative: Please include any budget narrative that is descriptive or helpful, to explain
any part of your proposed expenditures. For instance, if you are requesting furnishings or
appliances specifically for housing included in your Project or Program, what are the
items you are requesting?
The requested funds for this RFP will cover the equivalent of 3 FTE of the Salary and
Benefits of the staff required to provide services. FTE is .87 with then covering crisis
calls. The utilities include water/sewer, electricity, garbage removal, and telephone.
Insurance, supplies & furnishings/equipment, maintenance/janitorial/landscaping needed
to run the shelter. Program services include hotels, therapy, and client financial support.
Dove House Advocacy Services
Budget
July 2026 through June 2027
Ordinary Income/Expense
Income
FEDERAL & STATE GRANTS
OTHER GRANTS
PROGRAM INCOME
INDIVIDUAL CONTRIBUTIONS
MISCELLANEOUS INCOME
Total Income
Expense
ADMINISTRATIVE
FACILITIES
FUNDRAISING
INSURANCE
MARKETING & PUBLIC OUTREACH
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
PROGRAM SUPPORT
SALARIES, BENEFITS & TAXES
TRAINING & TRAVEL
UTILITIES
Total Expense
Net Ordinary Income
July -June
923,729.00
585,521.00
50,900.00
270,000.00
24,000.00
1,854,150.00
66,920.00
51,862.28
15,000.00
29,388.00
12,000.00
24,150.00
173,400.00
1,392,234.00
27,000.00
69,180.00
1,861,134.28
-6,984.28
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