by Two Veterans Housing and Recovery Program (VHRP) sites in Chippewa Falls and Green Bay, Wisconsin, will close by September 30, following the state legislature’s decision to exclude new funding for the program in the latest biennial budget.
Key Points:
- The facilities serve homeless or at-risk veterans, helping them transition to permanent housing.
- Governor Tony Evers had proposed $1.9 million for the program in his budget, but Republican lawmakers removed the funding.
- As a result, no new funding was approved, prompting the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) to confirm that the sites will be shut down.
Impact:
- Approximately 40 veterans currently housed between the two closing sites:
- 23 veterans at Chippewa Falls
- 17 veterans at Green Bay
- WDVA says those affected will be offered alternative placements and continue to receive support services.
- Applications are no longer being accepted at either location.
Background:
- The Veterans Housing and Recovery Program is operated by WDVA and aims to provide transitional housing and services like counseling, job training, and substance use support.
- Wisconsin had three VHRP facilities, but without renewed funding, the program’s reach will shrink significantly.
The closure of these vital facilities highlights the growing tension between state government branches over budget priorities and veteran care, leaving dozens of vulnerable veterans in limbo.
