Applications open for Whitefish workforce housing assistance program

Housing Whitefish is taking applications for its new Whitefish Workforce Assistance Program. 

This initiative is designed to support the workforce living and working in the Whitefish area by providing rental assistance to retain housing and facilitate entry into new rental units.

To be eligible for assistance, applicants must live in the 59937 ZIP Code and work on average 32 hours per week, along with meeting other income and housing requirements. Funding allocations are based on economic need. 

The 2022 Whitefish Community Housing Roadmap identified tenant rent assistance as a priority action to help residents get into and keep homes. As a new organization working on emerging housing needs in the community, Housing Whitefish was ready to answer the call, organizers note.  

“After months of conversations with community members, business owners, and our partners at the city of Whitefish, the Whitefish Chamber of Commerce, and Explore Whitefish, we feel confident that this program will have an immediate impact in our community,” said Daniel Sidder, Housing Whitefish executive director.

The program will accept applications until March 15 at which point, they will be reviewed. Applications are being reviewed quarterly, but interested individuals can apply at any time. 

Priority is given to households with at least one member employed in Whitefish, followed by those employed within the 59937 ZIP code area. Further consideration will be given to applicants with employment outside the 59937 ZIP Code area but within Flathead County.

Work requirements include working 1,600 hours a year or a single parent working 1,000 hours per year. New residents will be considered for assistance with an employer letter.

People who are unable to work due to a disability or retirement are eligible for funding, but additional eligibility criteria will apply. 

To qualify, applicants must make under 100% area median income and pay more than 30% of their income toward rent. 

If applicants have questions about the program or need assistance completing the application, they are encouraged to reach out to Housing Whitefish. To review the full funding policies and read the FAQs, visit Housing Whitefish's website at www.housingwhitefish.org.