Wisconsin Community Action Program

Mission: To strengthen and serve community action in Wisconsin.

WISCAP's core functions include:

• Administering grants and contracts to conduct programs in furtherance of the state association's goals
• Promoting professional growth and competence of members through training and support
• Developing responsive public policy positions and supporting appropriate action on pending legislation
• Encouraging, promoting, and stimulating the development of resources demonstrating progress toward the elimination of poverty
• Acting as an advocate for low-income households at all levels of government, the private sector, and with the public at-large

Primary Program Areas:

Housing: WISCAP partnered with the Wisconsin Department of Administration and the Office of the State Treasurer to establish the Wisconsin Help for Homeowners (WHH) Program, a statewide initiative providing legal assistance to prevent foreclosure, HUD-certified counseling, and financial aid of up to $40,000 for eligible applicants to address COVID-related delinquencies. Since inception, the program has enabled thousands of homeowners across all Wisconsin counties to access millions of dollars in support. In 2022 alone, over 4,000 households in 71 of 72 Wisconsin counties received financial aid totaling $28.5 million. WISCAP member agencies have also focused on housing stabilization through the Wisconsin Emergency Rental Assistance Program (WERA), distributing over $139.5 million in emergency rent to nearly 32,000 households.

Training and Development: Programs designed to enhance the capacity of Wisconsin's 18 Community Services Block Grant-funded agencies.

Health Programs: WISCAP has partnered with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services and Division of Public Health, working with seven member agencies to address vaccine-related initiatives.

Asset Development and Entrepreneurship: Training and asset development programs to increase capacity and assist low-income entrepreneurs.