As housing costs rise and more families struggle to keep a roof over their heads, the Shalom Center’s Wisconsin Housing Support Services Program continues to serve as a vital resource in Kenosha County. The program works to prevent homelessness, secure permanent housing, and maintain long-term stability for families in crisis.
Specifically designed for families with children under the age of 18, the Wisconsin Housing Support Services Program assists those who meet low-income eligibility guidelines and have a stable source of income. These requirements help ensure families who are ready for the next steps toward permanent housing have the support needed to become and remain stably housed. The Shalom Center consistently provides thousands of emergency shelter nights each year, demonstrating the ongoing demand for supportive housing services; with limited affordable housing options throughout Kenosha County, the need for programs like this remains significant.
The Wisconsin Housing Support Services Program offers a comprehensive model that goes beyond emergency shelter. A dedicated Housing Navigator and Case Manager work directly with parents to locate available rental units, overcome application barriers, and secure essential move-in needs such as deposits and utilities, challenges that often prevent families from advancing toward stability. By addressing these barriers, the program strengthens each family’s ability to rebuild with confidence.
Participants also receive a minimum of twelve months of wraparound case management that includes budgeting guidance, community referrals, and individualized support. The “Rent Basics” education component further equips families with practical knowledge about leases, tenant rights, household financial planning, and building a positive rental history.
Funded through Medicaid and supported by strong partnerships with local and state agencies, the program recognizes housing as a key component of long-term health and economic well-being. Staff coordinate closely with landlords, service providers, and Kenosha County’s homeless Emergency Services Network to expand housing opportunities for families who may have previously encountered barriers.
Stable housing fosters stability across every aspect of family life. When parents can provide a secure home, children thrive in school, caregivers can focus on employment, and overall well-being improves.
Families who believe they may qualify are encouraged to contact the Shalom Center to begin the assessment process and learn more about access to safe and stable housing resources.
About the Shalom Center
Shalom Center is a 501(c)3 in Kenosha County serving as the only homeless shelter, the largest food pantry, and the longest-running nightly meal program. Shalom Center is a community resource that provides housing, food, guidance, and support to individuals and families in need across our community. Our mission is simple: serve the community through food, shelter, and supportive ways. We believe that this mission will help realize a greater vision: self-sufficiency by maximizing the potential of the people we serve.
