Workforce Rental Assistance Program taking applicants year-round

The Whitefish Workforce Assistance Program recently shifted to accepting applications year-round, rather than having quarterly deadlines.  

Daniel Sidder, executive director of Housing Whitefish, said as living costs in Whitefish continue to rise, the program offers much-needed support to individuals and families struggling to keep up with housing expenses.  

So far, 45 applicants, representing 94 individuals, nearly half of whom are children, have been approved for assistance. Twenty of the approved applicants lead single-parent households. The average monthly assistance payment is $316. 

Sidder said these numbers represent more than just statistics; they reflect the lives of hardworking individuals who are integral to the community.  

He said many of the recipients of the assistance are longtime residents, with an average of 8.7 years spent living in Whitefish, many of whom, without support, would face displacement from the community, their home.

Seventy-four percent of those helped were at risk of having to leave the valley due to housing costs. The applicants’ average household income is about $46,523 and the average rent is $1,657. 

Thirty-five landlords are currently engaging in the workforce assistance program, and 68 employers are participating.

For more information visit housingwhitefish.org.