LA CROSSE, WI. (WXOW) – At meeting On Thursday, October 20, the La Crosse County Board of Supervisors unanimously passed two measures. resolution It is intended to help families secure and maintain their homes during the winter.
One action converted funds from the Homeless Prevention Services Program to support the 2022-2023 Community Emergency Shelter Plan for Families.
Using $168,000 of the original $500,000 set aside in 2018, the funds will be used to safely house an estimated 40-50 unprotected families this winter.
County Commissioner Monica Kruse said the focus on helping families get out of emergency shelters also helps to house unsheltered communities living outdoors in the elements. Said it would help.
“A big part of this plan is to free families from Salvation Army shelters,” Kruse explained. “They occupy the room. For example, if you have a room for six people and you have a family of four, there are two beds that will be empty. A bed for individuals coming out of Houska Park.”
In addition to providing hotel vouchers, the resolution authorizes the use of funds for security deposits, rental assistance, or vehicle repairs. It all helps families maintain their housing during the winter.
The second resolution established a pilot project called Family Keys.
Board members voted 25 to 0 and agreed to accept state funding of $120,000 from the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families.
Family Keys, which also supports La Crosse’s Emergency Evacuation Plan for Families, is another tool for fighting homelessness in your area.
Kruse said the funds will be used to help child welfare families in need of short-term emergency housing.
“The emphasis here is on keeping families together rather than tearing them apart. For example, putting children in foster care,” Kruse said. To keep them together, to maintain their housing, to give them the means to employ them, and to provide their families with a good life.
Family Keys funds are available now through June 30, 2023 and can be used to cover hotel costs, short-term rent, and various costs associated with finding and maintaining housing.
Participating in Family Key qualifies the county to apply for additional state funding to support medium-term housing.
Have an idea for a story?tell us here
