2025 RFP - Kinship Navigator Program (KNP)

The 2025 Kinship Navigator Program (KNP) contract, funded by the State of New Jersey, mandates delivery of comprehensive case‑management and wrap‑around services to kinship caregivers in Essex County. The awardee must manage a $757,099 budget (including up to $50,000 for start‑up costs) over an eight‑month period, provide stipulated stipend payments to at least 450 families, process a minimum of 75 kinship legal guardianship applications, and host four caregiver events. Staffing requirements include a program supervisor, four case managers, an intake specialist, and part‑time administrative support, all with a minimum of 35 hours/week dedication. The contractor must submit monthly data to DCF’s KNP Connex MIS, quarterly financial reports, and a final audit, while adhering to state‑mandated eligibility checks via NJSPIRIT. • Scope: Case management, stipend disbursement, legal guardianship assistance, information/referral, and caregiver events. • Funding: $757,099 total (FY 2026), with $375,000 earmarked for direct family assistance. • Performance: Minimum 450 families receive stipends, 75 legal guardianship applications processed, and four quarterly events delivered.