Agency Veterans Affairs Dept

Contractor Lutheran Social Services (LSS)

SWIFT Contract Number 143980

Project Name Case Management

Project Number (if applicable) {Empty}

Summarize purpose of the contract, including why it was necessary: Conduct state-wide community-based casework services for Veterans and their family members under the CORE Program by performing the duties and following the budget described in the project work plan. Casework services include behavioral health, financial, and housing counseling services and resources to increase access to services statewide and reduce barriers Veterans and their family members face.

Project Duration

Start Date Sun, 07/01/2018 - 00:00

Original end date Tue, 06/30/2020 - 00:00

Actual end date Fri, 06/30/2023 - 00:00

Did project finish on time? Yes

Total billable hours utilized (if applicable) {Empty}

Contract Amounts

Original contract: $1000000

Amendments $3091000

Contract total $4091000

Did project finish within budget? Yes

What was the funding source? State

Is this a sole source contract? No

If this was a single source contract, explain why the agency determined there was only a single source for the services (if applicable) N/A

Evaluator Name Andrew Garvais, Director of Veterans Programs and Memorial Affairs

Evaluator Email Address Andrew.garvais@state.mn.us

Evaluate the contractor's timeliness The contractor, Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota (LSS), has demonstrated commendable timeliness in delivering services as outlined in the contract. They have consistently met deadlines and responded promptly to referrals from County Veteran Service officers (CVSO) and the Minnesota Department of Veteran Affairs (MDVA) affiliates. LSS's ability to initiate contact with veterans and their families in a timely manner, even when clients approach them directly without referrals, is noteworthy. Furthermore, LSS's commitment to conducting case assessments and planning promptly after the initial appointment ensures that veterans and their families receive timely support. This proactive approach to case management reflects positively on their timeliness in addressing veterans' needs.

Evaluate the contractor's quality The quality of services provided by LSS is impressive. Their mental health counseling services, financial counseling, addiction counseling, and disability services are delivered by certified professionals, adhering to clinical best practices. LSS ensures that counseling is tailored to address the specific needs and challenges of each client, fostering a supportive and effective therapeutic environment. Additionally, LSS maintains accreditation and certification from relevant authorities, such as the Minnesota Department of Human Services and the National Foundation for Credit Counseling, ensuring the highest quality standards in service delivery.

Evaluate the contractor's cost LSS’s ability to coordinate and maximize available resources to fund services is evident. They prioritize utilizing existing resources and benefits to minimize costs, which aligns with the contract's goal of cost-effective service delivery. LSS's commitment to not burdening veterans with co-pays or deductible amounts and attempting to recover costs from clients' insurance demonstrates their cost-conscious approach to service provision.

Evaluate the contractor's overall performance Overall, LSS's performance under the contract has been highly commendable. They have consistently demonstrated timeliness, quality, and cost-effective service delivery. Their commitment to meeting the terms and objectives of the contract, as well as their dedication to providing comprehensive case management services to Minnesota veterans and their families, reflects a strong overall performance. LSS's emphasis on individualized care, trauma-informed approaches, and their extensive network of providers across the state contribute to a well-rounded and effective delivery of services that align with the contract's goals and objectives.

Would you engage the contractor's services again? Yes

Describe any negative action taken during the duration of this contract (i.e., termination, pursuit of suspension, etc.): None

Please rate the overall experience with the contractor 5 - very satisfied