The U.S. Department of Justice's Federal Bureau of Prisons is issuing a Request for Information (RFI) regarding the upcoming solicitation for Mothers and Infants Together (MINT) services across several Midwestern states. The RFI aims to identify qualified sources capable of providing these services under a contract that combines various needs for in-house placements. The Bureau seeks input on the feasibility of service provision in the identified regions, especially concerning the accommodation of sex offenders. The document invites responses to several questions regarding experience in related services, local regulations, transportation availability, zoning issues, and environmental concerns. Interested parties must submit their responses by October 18, 2024, to a designated contracting officer. The RFI emphasizes that it does not constitute a formal Request for Proposal and that responses will not guarantee inclusion in any future solicitation. Overall, the document serves as a preliminary outreach effort to gauge interest and gather insights from potential service providers regarding the proposed procurement of MINT services.

The Statement of Work (SOW) outlines the requirements for operating a Residential Reentry Center (RRC) that facilitates the transition of federal inmates from prison to the community. Developed by the Bureau of Prisons (BOP), the SOW defines the contractor's responsibilities, which include personnel management, facility maintenance, program development, and ensuring resident safety and compliance with legal standards. Key components include the provision of trained staff for 24/7 supervision of residents, adherence to safety and health regulations, and the establishment of programs aimed at self-improvement and law-abiding behavior. The contractor is required to maintain operational policies, conduct regular staff training, and manage all personnel records effectively. Moreover, the document emphasizes the importance of community relations, fiscal management, and strict adherence to ethical standards to prevent misconduct. The contractor must ensure compliance with relevant regulations, including the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) and drug-free workplace policies. This SOW serves as a guide for contractors seeking to provide effective correctional services while upholding the BOP's mission of ensuring public safety and supporting inmates’ rehabilitation efforts as they reintegrate into society.

The Mothers and Infants Nurturing Together (MINT) program is designed to support pregnant federal female offenders during their transition to motherhood. Eligible participants can enter the program up to two months prior to their expected delivery date and may remain for an additional period to foster bonding. Program components include individualized prenatal care, a "home-like" living environment, and educational opportunities covering maternal health, parenting skills, and substance use treatment. A dedicated MINT Coordinator facilitates communication between residents, families, and community services, while the contractor is responsible for transportation to medical appointments and outings. Residents are not permitted unfettered access to the outside due to their incarceration status and cannot pursue employment. The program emphasizes the health and welfare of both mother and child, mandating appropriate nutritional support and access to immunizations post-birth. Costs incurred for maternal medical care are covered by the transferring institution, while responsibility for infant medical expenses falls to the guardian after a set period. Lastly, a report summarizing each resident’s experience is to be compiled and shared with relevant authorities upon their release from the program.