Expansion of Peer Bridger Services

OMH is committed to the support of individuals from hospitalization to community, as a part of the overall continuum of care. The New York State Office of Mental Health is seeking proposals to contract with three (3) Article 28 facilities with inpatient psychiatric units committed to supporting individuals from hospital to community through the provision of Peer Bridger services. Each of three hospitals will receive $300,000 per year for five years to operate a Peer Bridger program for a total of $900,000 annual amount statewide. The amount prescribed allows for the hiring of three peer support specialists (NYCPS) and travel and incidentals to support bridging from hospital to community.

Peer support services continue to demonstrate efficacy in supporting individual wellness and recovery. In particular, Peer Bridger services are designed to accompany individuals discharging from more restrictive environments which have been shown to instill levels of institutionalization that impact a person’s ability to establish themselves as fully participating and included members of their community of choice. It is intended to provide voluntary and mutual assistance that adheres to the values and principles of peer support and is built on the foundational aspect of relationship.

Bridger support is designed to offer support to individuals who are hospitalized in Article 28 settings, preparing for discharge, and who would benefit from support returning to the community. Peer Bridgers establish rapport and connection with an individual while hospitalized and continuing into the community for periods of approximately six months up to one year. It is not intended to function as care management or a mechanism to ensure that people follow up with aftercare. Peer Bridging services can help individuals transition and navigate the difficulties that can occur as a person living with mental health and other intersecting challenges, provide suggestions and assist in exploring options and opportunities based on a shared lived experience paradigm, and offer support that is respectful of self-determination and encourages self-efficacy.

Bridgers can provide individualized skills training, systems navigation and advocacy support that is grounded in a “do with rather than do for” philosophy. While Peer Bridging services can support reduced hospitalizations and cost to the system, its ultimate value lies in strengths-based and person-first approach that fosters hope that individuals can live a life that provides meaning and purpose. This funding opportunity is offered to Article 28 facilities to hire, train and support the use of Peer Bridgers in a manner that is consistent with the role as defined in this RFP, and will provide bridging services to those in need.

Notice: Notification of intent to apply should be made to the Local Governmental Unit (county director of community services) for each county to be served under the program application, as defined in Section 41 of the New York State Mental Hygiene Law.

The full RFP can be found at: https://omh.ny.gov/omhweb/rfp/

All applicants must be Prequalified by the due date/time of the RFP.

All applications/proposals must be submitted through the Statewide Financial System.