CHOOSE WHERE YOUR DONATION WILL GO
1. Housing First in Response to COVID-19 Crisis
These emerging funds would be used to help Milwaukee’s most vulnerable population during the coronavirus pandemic. Funds would be utilized to purchase food, cleaning supplies, bus vouchers, clothing and more.
2. Rental Application Fees/Security Deposits
The first step toward permanent housing is the completion of a rental application and the submission of a security deposit. Be the hero who helps individuals begin the journey toward stabilization.
3. Move-In Kits
Household essentials are needed for participants in the Housing First program. Items such as linens, furniture and cookware are supplied to help participants lead independent lifestyles.
4. Downtown Homeless Outreach Coordinator
With a consistent presence downtown and access to an outreach vehicle, this full-time staff person works on the front lines helping individuals get off the streets, and is a point person for other homeless-related issues.
2,000+ homeless individuals already placed through Housing First
Since 2015, Milwaukee County Housing Division has placed over 2,000 homeless individuals into permanent supportive housing through its Housing First initiative. The local program maintains a 96% retention rate. Meanwhile, national figures indicate approximately 84% of chronically homeless individuals maintain housing longer than 12 months*.
*Stefancic, A. + Tsemberis, S. J Primary Prevent (2007) 28:265.do:-10.1007/S10935-007-0093-9
MISSION
To elevate awareness of our community’s quality of life programs, which are key in effectively assisting citizens with mental health and substance abuse issues, and improve the quality of life for Milwaukee citizens and its visitors.
The Key to Change campaign is the result of a collaborative partnership among Milwaukee Downtown, Business Improvement District #21 (BID #21), Milwaukee County Housing Division, City of Milwaukee, Marquette University, Milwaukee Police Department, the City Attorney’s Office and District Attorney’s Office. The campaign is also supported by other downtown neighborhood organizations and associations.
SUPPORTING KEY TO CHANGE
This website was created to accept cash donations only to help support Milwaukee County Housing Division’s Housing First outreach staff. No direct housing services or funds are available on this site.
If you are experiencing a housing crisis, you can access coordinated entry services by calling 2-1-1 or 1-414-773-0211 or 1-866-211-3380 for assistance at any time or day of the week.