October is Careers in Construction month, for greater awareness of what the construction industry offers (Photo/The Boldt Company)
By PrincessSafiya Byers
This story was originally published by Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service, where you can find other stories reporting on fifteen city neighborhoods in Milwaukee. Visit milwaukeenns.org.
Renters, you don’t need to struggle alone.
There are plenty of organizations in Milwaukee that are willing to help you navigate any challenge.
Here are some resources you should know about:
Milwaukee Rental Housing Resource Center
The Milwaukee Rental Housing Resource Center is fully staffed and open to walk-ins for those in need.
The center, which streamlines housing services and service providers in the city, is located at Community Advocates’ downtown location at 728 N. James Lovell St.
Maudwella Kirkendoll, the chief operating officer of Community Advocates, said walk-ins get same-day service from the organization’s general housing staff.
Officials can be contacted at info@renthelpmke.org or 414-895-RENT.
Rental assistance help
Community Advocates and the Social Development Commission are still providing rental assistance to Milwaukee residents who have been affected by COVID-19. The Social Development Commission also is open for walk-ins.
Here’s what you should read before you apply for help at Community Advocates https://communityadvocates.net/what-we-do/rent-assistance.html
Here’s the application for Community Advocates https://webportalapp.com/sp/login/communityadvocates-application
Here’s information on how to apply at the Social Development Commission https://www.cr-sdc.org/services/mera
Here’s the Social Development Commission’s application https://cr-sdc.smapply.io/acc/l/?next=/prog/250670/apply/
Other programs that help residents
Although the deadline to apply for funds from the Wisconsin Emergency Rental Assistance Program was Jan. 31, providers say other programs still exist.
Here are some:
Right to Counsel: The Right to Counsel or EvictionFreeMKE pilot program provides legal counsel to Milwaukeeans who make under 200% of the federal poverty line and are facing eviction.
You can call the hotline at 414-892-7368 or visit the website at EvictionFreeMKE.org.
Housing Authority: The Housing Authority of the City of Milwaukee has wait lists for its properties.
Milwaukee Autonomous Tenants Union: The tenants union organizes to challenge evictions, makes tenants aware of their rights and sometimes takes on negligent landlords. You can contact it at intake@matunion.org or 414-410-9714.
Other resources to consult if you’re worried about eviction
Legal Aid Society of Milwaukee: 414-727-5300
Mediate Milwaukee: 414-939-8800
Legal Action of Wisconsin: 855-947-2529
Take Root Milwaukee for assistance with mortgage issues/foreclosure: 414-921-4149