Press Release: Gov. Evers Kickstarts New $2 Million Veteran Rental Assistance Program

State of Wisconsin sent this bulletin at 12/07/2022 09:08 AM CST
Office of Governor Tony Evers
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 7, 2022
Contact: GovPress@wisconsin.gov 
 
Gov. Evers Kickstarts New $2 Million Veteran Rental Assistance Program
Program will help address veteran housing insecurity and homelessness
MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers today announced the application period is now open for the new $2 million Veterans Rental Assistance Program, as announced as part of the governor’s $10 million investment to support Wisconsin veterans. The program aims to address housing insecurity and homelessness among Wisconsin veterans and provide housing assistance statewide. 

“The last thing our veterans should have to worry about is whether they can afford to keep a roof over their heads at night,” said Gov. Evers. “We have to keep working to ensure our veterans have access to affordable housing, mental and behavioral health services, and the education and skills training they need to be successful in civilian life. I am glad these funds will be headed out the door to support folks across our state.” 

A recommendation from the Interagency Council on Homelessness’ “Welcoming Wisconsin Home” report and the Governor’s Blue Ribbon Commission on Veteran Opportunity, the Veterans Rental Assistance Program will help veterans offset reoccurring housing emergencies and provide for long-term stability through help with past due and current rent payments and other living expenses.

“Our veterans deserve all the support we can give, and housing is one of the most basic needs to help individuals and families to find stability and get back on their feet,” said Wisconsin Department of Administration (DOA) Secretary-designee Kathy Blumenfeld. “I’m proud that we're taking action on key recommendations to address the needs faced by Wisconsin's veterans.” 

Similar to the Wisconsin Emergency Rental Assistance Program, income eligibility will be up to 80 percent of the county median income. The program will be managed by the DOA’s Division of Energy, Housing and Community Resources and is funded by the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). 

Applications and additional program information is available at vrapwi.com and 1-800-891-9276. 
 
An online version of this release is available here.
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