Wayne County approves sole‑source contract to buy 1,000 sleeping‑bag coats for people experiencing homelessness

Wayne County’s Health and Human and Veterans Services Committee approved a 12‑month sole‑source professional services contract with The Empowerment Plan to purchase 1,000 sleeping‑bag coats for distribution to people experiencing homelessness during the winter season.

Kineal Johnson, interim director for the Department of Health Human and Veterans Services, told the committee the county will partner with shelters, harm‑reduction services and community resource centers to distribute the sleeping‑bag coats; the county will not distribute the items directly.

"So we are seeking approval today for of a sole source contract with the empowerment plan to distribute 1,000 sleeping bags, during the winter season to those individuals experiencing homelessness," Johnson said.

Commissioner Anderson brought a sample sleeping bag to the meeting and described the product’s origins. Committee discussion noted the product was designed and patented by a former student at Wayne State University College for Creative Studies. Committee members described the item as single‑size, transportable and warm; staff said distribution will be handled through partner organizations rather than county staff conducting direct street outreach.

Commissioner Anderson moved approval of the contract; Commissioner Killeen seconded the motion. The committee voted to approve the sole‑source award.

The interim director said the county will partner with community organizations and harm‑reduction services and use community resource centers and shelters to get the sleeping‑bag coats to residents in need.