Alternative Approaches
Many states have adopted programs and initiatives to tackle the affordability crisis. In Wisconsin, policymakers and the housing industry have made concerted efforts to address the problem. Examples include:
Tenant Based Rental Assistance Program
The Division of Energy, Housing and Community Resources (DEHCR) provides HOME Tenant Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) funds through local governments, housing authorities and non-profit organizations to provide HOME rental assistance, in association with support services coordinated by the participating agency, to help homeless persons and to prevent homelessness.
Rental Housing Development
The Rental Housing Development (RHD) Program assists eligible housing organizations, including Community Housing Development Organizations (CHDOs), with funds to develop affordable rental housing. For-profit corporations may partner with the above-mentioned groups or apply directly for RHD funds. The program is part of the Division of Energy, Housing and Community Resources, Wisconsin Department of Administration. It is federally funded through HUD’s Home Investment Partnership’s Program.
WHEDA Housing Choice Voucher Program
The Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) Housing Choice Voucher Program helps families with very low to extremely low incomes rent decent, safe, sanitary and affordable housing of their choice.