On December 10th, the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) released a Concept Paper outlining a proposed Request for Proposals (RFP) for the operation of the Strong Messenger Project. Through this proposed RFP, DOHMH would seek one qualified organization to provide direct therapeutic services to over 225 frontline Cure Violence program staff at 24 Cure Violence program sites located in the five boroughs of New York City. Cure Violence is a data-driven, community-based violence prevention program model that serves neighborhoods of New York City most affected by gun violence.
The Strong Messenger Project model helps Cure Violence program staff and outreach teams cope with their personal issues as well as the stress and trauma of their jobs. DOHMH anticipates awarding one organization with $425,000 in annual funding for the duration of the six-year contract term. The awarded applicant will be expected to retain, engage, manage, and coordinate services provided by up to 20 culturally competent and qualified psychotherapists (psychologists, LCSWs, etc.). Services will include group sessions, individual therapeutic consults at program sites, crisis intervention, and individual coaching, among others.
The Concept Paper is available here. Comments may be submitted to RFP@health.nyc.gov with “Strong Messenger Project Concept Paper” in the subject line through January 24, 2022. DOHMH anticipates releasing the RFP in the spring of 2022, with proposals due in the summer of 2022. Contracts are expected to begin on January 1, 2023.