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Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection

01/15/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/15/2025 12:50

DEEP Announces Request for Qualifications for Community Resource Hubs

Press Releases

01/15/2025

DEEP Announces Request for Qualifications for Community Resource Hubs

New Initiative Will Help Residents in EJ Communities Access DEEP Programs and Opportunities; RFQ Submissions Open Until 5 p.m. on March 12, 2025

(HARTFORD, CT) - The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) has released a Request for Qualifications (RFQ)seeking proposals from qualified organizations to serve as DEEP Community Resource Hubs(Hubs) in environmental justice communities in Connecticut. The purpose of the Community Resource Hubs will be to better connect Connecticut residents in environmental justice communities, including economically distressed communities, with DEEP services and programs that can benefit residents and their communities.

DEEP administers many programs that can improve quality of life for Connecticut residents. These programs include energy-saving solar and efficiency programs that can lower energy bills and make their homes more resilient, outdoor recreation programs that boost mental and physical health, rebates to increase access to electric bikes and vehicles, and urban forestry grants to increase green space and reduce heat zones in their neighborhoods. The goal of the Community Resource Hubs initiative is to incorporate community input into program design, and lower barriers to access and enrollment in DEEP programs.

Through the RFQ process, DEEP hopes to select one or two Hubs as pilots, to gain experience with the efficiency and effectiveness of the Community Resource Hub approach. Applicants can provide the services to DEEP on their own or in partnership with other entities.

"DEEP looks forward to partnering with non-profits and similar entities to connect environmental justice community residents with the diverse programs that we offer. Through these innovative partnerships, we look forward to increasing access to programs and services and gain, in return, fresh insights on how our programs can be even more effective," said DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes.

"Hartford is an environmental justice community, but too many of my neighbors are unaware of the resources available to them-resources that could make a real difference in their daily lives," State Senator Doug McCrory (D-Hartford) said. "A program that no one knows about might as well not exist at all. These Community Resource Hubs will bridge that gap and ensure that people in our community can access the support they need."

"This initiative is a game-changer for environmental justice communities across Connecticut. The Community Resource Hubs will break down barriers to critical programs that improve energy affordability, increase access to green spaces, and enhance environmental quality," State Representative Aundre Bumgardner (D-Groton) said. "By embedding DEEP's resources directly into these neighborhoods, we're not only creating opportunities but fostering meaningful connections that will shape a more sustainable and equitable future."

To provide more information to prospective partners, DEEP is hosting a February 13 informational session on the RFQ. This session will include a meet-and-greet for potential applicants and partners. DEEP is encouraging those interested in applying to submit a Letter of Interest and, for those who want to be part of the matchmaking clearinghouse, is asking them to sign up. Reflecting feedback received during our public comment period, this matchmaking Clearinghouse will allow applicants to see where other interested applicants work and what services they provide and discuss potential synergies. DEEP will use the Clearinghouse to connect organizations and support successful and robust Hubs across the state. The Letter of Interest and Clearinghouse Sign Up is due by February 5, 2025.

Scope of Services

Community Resource Hubs, beginning with one or two pilots, will serve as localized access points for:

  • Facilitating community engagement in DEEP policy and program development.
  • Improving community access to state and federal grant programs.
  • Hosting educational and informational events related to DEEP's mission areas, including clean energy, environmental quality, and climate resilience.
  • Supporting workforce development and business creation aligned with DEEP programs.

Key Dates and Deadlines

Eligibility and Application Details

Connecticut-based organizations with demonstrated experience in community engagement and partnerships are encouraged to apply. The RFQ process aims to identify lead entities that can provide core services directly or through collaboration with key partners or subcontractors.

The RFQ materials will be translated and posted in Spanish on DEEP's Community Resource Hubs webpage. Also note that DEEP's webpages can be translated into other languages by clicking the "language + settings" widget on the top right corner of a webpage.

The letter of interest instructions, final Full RFQ, submission instructions, and additional information are available on the DEEP Community Resource Hubs webpageand CT Bid Board page. Questions can be directed to Katrina Vallett, the point of contact for this program, [email protected].

Twitter: @CTDEEPNews Facebook: DEEP on Facebook

Contact

DEEP Communications
[email protected]
860-424-3110