The Wisconsin Emergency Rental Assistance Program is closing applications at the end of the month.
According to a media release from the Wisconsin Department of Administration, Secretary Blumenfeld is announcing that the Wisconsin Emergency Rental Assistance Program, funded by the Federal Emergency Rental Assistance Program through the U.S. Department of Treasury, will close applications on Jan. 31, 2023, due to low remaining funds.
The media release from the Wisconsin Department of Administration says housing stability services will continue even after rental benefit funds are exhausted.
According to the media release from the Wisconsin Department of Administration, since launching in 2021, WERA has paid out over $242 million in benefits to support more than 38,865 households across all 72 counties with rent, utilities, water, and internet payments. The media release says overall, the program has provided a total of $544 million statewide to help families avoid homelessness due to pandemic-related financial hardship.
“Since launching this program, we’ve been able to help tens of thousands of households get caught up on rent, keep the heat and lights on, and ensure folks could stay connected during one of the most challenging economic periods our state has ever experienced,” said Gov. Evers. “Wisconsinites have had enough on their plate these last three years without also having to worry about having a safe, stable place to lay their head at night. I’m proud of our efforts to help Wisconsinites have one less stressor as they’ve worked to provide for themselves and their families.”
“This successful program has allowed thousands of households to catch up on utility bills and get some peace of mind during a very trying time, and we are making sure that housing stability services continue to be offered even after WERA benefit funds run out,” said DOA Secretary Kathy Blumenfeld. “We are grateful for Gov. Evers’ unwavering support and the commitment of our statewide network of partners in helping Wisconsin renters avoid eviction and retain safe, stable housing.”
Applications are being accepted until 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 31, according to the media release from the Wisconsin Department of Administration. Benefits will be paid to the extent that funding remains available, with priority given to households facing imminent eviction.
Information about applying for the program is available here. Applications for Walworth and Rock County residents are made through Community Action, Inc., 608-313-1337, or through this link. Jefferson County applications are submitted to Energy Services, Inc., 833-900-9372, or through this link.
