Gov. Evers Announces $6 Million in Grants for Youth, Domestic Abuse, and Homelessness Shelters

MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers today announced $6 million in new targeted grants to address homelessness and ensure safe shelter for individuals experiencing short or long-term housing instability during the winter months. The announcement coincides with Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, and annual observance drawing attention to the number of Americans nationwide who experience hunger and homelessness.

“The ongoing pandemic has only underscored the critical need we have in our state with too many folks and families at risk who need help now,” said Gov. Evers. “We have a moral obligation as a state and as Wisconsinites to take care of one another, to do the right thing, and to look out for our neighbors, especially those who are experiencing homelessness and housing instability and especially with the winter months upon us.”

The $6 million Safe Shelter and Homelessness Grants will provide critical resources to homelessness shelters, domestic abuse shelters, and youth homelessness and runaway centers during the winters of 2021-22 and 2022-23. The grants will be funded by American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars and split up into two programs. Up to $4 million will be made available through the State Shelter Subsidy Grant Program, which provides funding to shelter facilities, and will be administered by the Wisconsin Department of Administration (DOA). Another $2 million will be allocated to funding for the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF).

“These desperately needed funds will provide housing for survivors of domestic abuse, pay for warm meals, blankets, and other critical supplies for those who are experiencing housing instability,” said DCF Secretary Emilie Amundson. “We look forward to working with our partners to get this vital funding to support our most vulnerable residents as quickly as possible.”

“No one should have to face living on the streets during winter in Wisconsin, and the need this year is as critical as ever,” said Mike Basford, Director for the Interagency Council on Homelessness. “We’re grateful to our agency partners and Gov. Evers for making these critical funds available quickly, so we can help people find shelter when they need it most.”

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NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.