Wisconsin residents who are struggling with rent, security deposits, water bills, energy costs, and other housing expenses, due to the pandemic, may be eligible for the Wisconsin Emergency Rental Assistance Program (WERA).
The WERA program may assist qualifying households with up to 18 months assistance for current and/or overdue payments due, such as rent, lot fees, water bills, electrical bills, or other costs as outlined by a lease.
To be qualified, at least one or more individuals in the household must meet the following criteria:
- Qualified for unemployment benefits, experienced a significant reduction in income, incurred significant increase in expense, or experienced any type of financial hardship since 3/13/2020 due to COVID-19.
- At risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability.
- Household income has to be 80%, or less, of the county’s median income.
Households who are on a fixed monthly income and households already receiving housing assistance may still qualify for programs. Participants will need to document income information for the past two months for all household members. Lease information will be needed and landlords will be asked to sign a Renter Verification form.
To start the application process, households are asked to go online and complete the
intake form: www.newcap.org/intake-form. If you need assistance, contact Newcap directly at
1-800-242-7334 or stop in their office at 1540 Capitol Dr. Green Bay.
Newcap offers a diverse collection of programs which are designed to move people from poverty to opportunities and economic security, while still enhancing community development. Call them today or visit them online at www.newcap.org, to see how they can help.
