MADISON, WI – Republicans on the Joint Finance Committee have blocked the release of funds for homeless shelters across Wisconsin, despite the pleas from advocates, Democratic legislators and Governor Tony Evers. As the co-chair of the Joint Finance Committee, Senator Alberta Darling (R-River Hills) has already blocked this funding once before, jeopardizing housing for Wisconsin’s most vulnerable residents.
“Time and time again, Senator Darling has proven how disconnected she is from the needs of Wisconsin communities,” said SSDC Executive Director Katie Iliff. “We’re talking about thousands of children, families and veterans across Wisconsin being left out in the cold because Senator Darling is too busy padding the pockets of her wealthy donors. Senator Darling can’t find the compassion to help those that need it the most this winter. She has repeatedly shown that she can’t be trusted to do what’s right for Wisconsin families.”
The funding to help homelessness initiatives has already been approved in the state budget and came recommended by the Interagency Council on Homelessness’s 2019-2020 Statewide Action Plan. The plan addresses housing grants and loans, shelter for homeless grants, and other program operations and services.
