Housing Whitefish disburses first payments for assistance program

Housing Whitefish has distributed the first payments for the Whitefish Workforce Assistance Program. 

This initiative, aimed at supporting individuals and families facing housing affordability challenges in the Whitefish area, received 37 applications in this first round of applications. 

Out of the 37 applications, 17 were approved for assistance. Applicants not approved either paid under 30% of their income towards rent, made over the area median income or did not meet residency requirements for Whitefish.

Over the next 12 months, pending moves, lease terminations, and other factors, Housing Whitefish plans to disburse a total of $64,620, equating to $5,385 per month, toward supporting qualified applicants with their housing needs.

The average monthly payment is $317 and will be made directly to the landlord.

Of the applicants, 59% said they were at risk of moving from Flathead County due to lack of affordability or inability to pay rent. Fourteen single parents applied for assistance. 

The average rent reported by applicants was $1,413 and only eigh applicants had utilities included in the contract rent price.

Female applicants constituted 62% of the total applicant pool.

The average age of applicants was 36.

On average, applicants reported moving 1.5 times in the last three years.

Looking ahead, Housing Whitefish will hold three more application cycles this year, scheduled for June, September and December. These additional cycles will further extend the reach of the program, allowing more individuals and families to apply, according to the organization. 

More details about the program can be found at housingwhitefish.org.