DHA RFP 2027-002 Multiple proposals to expand the Expanded Subsidized Employment (ESE) program and create more opportunities for Welfare-To-Work (WTW) participants seeking full-time employment

The Department of Human Assistance (DHA) seeks to fund multiple proposals to expand the Expanded Subsidized Employment (ESE) program and create more opportunities for Welfare-To-Work (WTW) participants seeking full-time employment. The goal is for the ESE program to continue services by offering new proposers and experienced providers the opportunity to support DHA’s efforts to increase placements within Sacramento County. DHA seeks to offer retention and supportive services for all WTW eligible participants. The current contract for the ESE program is effective July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026. On April 28, 2026, the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors is scheduled to review the ESE Program award recommendations to continue the program with the new proposers for a one-year contract with two potential one-year renewals.

The ESE program has been in existence since 2014. This program provides assistance to the State’s CalWORKs WTW participants in finding and retaining full-time employment.

The ESE program reimburses employers for the regularly earned wages of program participants for up to six months. In addition to wages, the ESE program offers retention services, which include support services, to the participant during the placement period and for an additional two months upon completion of the placement. Support services may include, but are not limited to, transportation support, childcare, equipment purchase, etc. These services are meant to support the participant and remove any potential barriers from obtaining and maintaining full-time employment.