Approves an on-call contract with IEM International, Inc. for $8,000,000.00 with an end date of 12-31-2028 to provide temporary disaster-response staffing and operational support for Denver Human Services (DHS) and the Department of Housing Stability (HOST) when City capacity is strained or exceeded during emergency events or sever weather sheltering operations, on an as-needed, citywide (SOCSV-202581681).

The City Council has approved an on-call contract with IEM International, Inc. for $8,000,000.00, effective from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2028. This contract will provide temporary disaster-response staffing and operational support for Denver Human Services (DHS) and the Department of Housing Stability (HOST) when City capacity is strained or exceeded during emergency events or severe weather sheltering operations.

Key Services Provided:

• Sheltering: Operation of congregate and non-congregate shelters (24/7, ADA compliant), including cold weather shelters.
• Essential Care: Provision of up to three daily meals, snacks, clean drinking water, and basic medical triage.
• Support Services: Transportation (shuttle services), licensed unarmed 24/7 security, resource referral and counseling (housing, employment, healthcare), and management of volunteers and donations.
• Staff Augmentation: Supply of qualified personnel for Mass Care Department Operations Center (DOC) operations and logistics.

IEM International, Inc., a woman-owned emergency management company, was selected through a competitive process with a strong emphasis on cultural responsiveness, inclusive hiring, and equitable service delivery. Services can be activated rapidly, with a 0-48 hour timeline to full shelter operations, and will be funded by a combination of local funds and potential federal/state reimbursements (e.g., FEMA, ARPA).

This contract ensures that Denver residents and visitors will receive rapid and comprehensive support during emergencies and severe weather events, including safe shelter, food, medical care, and transportation. It strengthens the city's ability to respond to crises without overstretching its own resources, with an emphasis on equitable and trauma-informed care for vulnerable populations.

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