Explore Whitefish's Support for Workforce Housing Surpasses $389,000 through Restaurant Member Collections
WHITEFISH, MONT. (February 17, 2025) — Explore Whitefish has presented a check for $29,864 to Housing Whitefish from collections last fiscal quarter by local restaurants that are members and collect the 1% Community Support Fund.
Explore Whitefish is the official visitor organization charged with destination management, visitor education, and stewardship of Whitefish. Since June 2022, Explore Whitefish has contributed $389,771 to Housing Whitefish to support operations, program development, and rental assistance payments.
"Our restaurant partners are playing such a huge role in helping the mission of Housing Whitefish to foster a sustainable housing supply that everyone in our community can afford," said Zak Anderson, Explore Whitefish membership director.
“With the support of member businesses, Housing Whitefish has provided rental assistance to over 60 households, including 116 individuals," said Daniel Sidder, executive director for Housing Whitefish. "We know our efforts are keeping people in Whitefish — almost 70% of families in the program say they risk losing their housing due to their ability to pay rent and utilities. By continuing to participate in the Community Support Fund, businesses are making an impact for individuals in our community and across our local economy.”
“Our program is supporting people across Whitefish," Sidder continued. "Around half of our program applicants work in retail, restaurants, or lodging, while the remaining half work in jobs like checking you in at the dentist, assisting you at the bank, cutting your hair, or maintaining your property."
Applications for the Workforce Rental Assistance Program can be accessed at www.housingwhitefish.org.
Residents interested in supporting the Community Support Fund through their local dining experiences can find a list of Explore Whitefish restaurant members at https://explorewhitefish.com/dine.
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Media Contact:
Brian Schott
(406) 261-6190