Whitefish Workforce Assistance Program Provides Vital Support to Community
Whitefish, MT – 07/31/2024 - The Whitefish Workforce Assistance Program, launched in January 2024, has made significant strides in supporting the local workforce by providing rental assistance. Funded with $200,000 from the City of Whitefish and supported by the Whitefish Chamber of Commerce, Explore Whitefish, the Foley Family Charitable Foundation, and various local businesses, the program aims to prevent displacement and offer housing opportunities for those who work in Whitefish but live outside the community.
Program Highlights:
Total Applicants: 63 (March 15 & June 15 application cycles)
Approved Applicants: 40 (23 of 26 in June; 17 of 37 in March after application updates.)
Individuals Impacted: 81 in approved applicant households
Average Area Median Income (AMI) Served: 57%
Average Household Size: 2.2
Average Household Income: $40,354.93
Average Rent: $1,667
Average Rental Assistance Payment: $325
Number of Landlords Receiving Rental Assistance Payments: 25
Number of Employers Represented Across All Applicants: 58
Single Parents in the Program: 16
Dependents in Households Receiving Assistance: 43
Residents have expressed heartfelt gratitude for the assistance provided through the program. Here are a few of their comments:
“Thank you for helping low-income families like mine survive in this economy. We couldn't be more grateful.”
“I just want to express my gratitude. I'm a single parent, and this has helped to make my life and monthly expenses more stable. Thank you.
"I finally have a way to stay and live in Whitefish."
"I really can't thank you enough! This help couldn't have possibly come at a better time. I am so very grateful!"
Looking Ahead:
As the Whitefish Workforce Assistance Program continues to grow, it remains dedicated to supporting the local workforce and ensuring that those who contribute to the community can also afford to live within it. The program is a testament to the power of community collaboration and the impact of targeted assistance. The application period will open again on Monday, August 5th with applications due on September 15th.