Services Provided

Transitional Housing

Families are able to stay for up to a year in one of the seven Bethel House homes.  While living at Bethel House families work with the Director on the issues that led to their homelessness.  The Director conducts a needs assessment and families establish goals to achieve self-sufficiency.   

1. During the first month, the Director helps families manage the initial crisis of homelessness.  The focus is primarily on immediate needs such as food, clothing, furniture, basic income, and locating other services.
2. Starting in the second month, the Director helps families dig into their finances, establish a budget, and prioritize debts.  A resume is written and families are often able to find higher paying jobs.  The Director helps families reestablish positive habits that will help them long after they have left Bethel House.  
3. After a family has been at Bethel House for six months, families work with the Director on an exit strategy.  The Director helps families locate affordable housing, save for a security deposit, and transition from Bethel House.  Most families leave Bethel House with a sizable amount of savings, significantly less debt, and valuable life skills.  But more importantly, families also leave with a renewed sense of dignity, strength, and hope for the future.

Emergency Financial Assistance

Many times, a small amount of financial assistance can mean the difference between housed and homeless.  Treating homelessness is much more costly, both in monetary terms and the emotional impact, than preventing homelessness.  When possible, Bethel House can help prevent a family from becoming homeless by providing a one-time payment towards rent or utilities.  

Rebuild Program

Rebuild is a program designed for families who are struggling to make ends meet and need more than just a one-time payment towards rent or utilities.   
During the fall semester, this program includes a 6-week group class on financial management.   Families also work with the Director and a Social Work student on addressing other individual needs.
During the spring semester, families are invited to attend a variety of workshops.  Topics are chosen based on community need and interest.   All workshops are free and offer free childcare.

Eligibility

Bethel House serves families with children under age 18 living within the Whitewater Unified School District.   

For help, call Kristy, the Bethel House Executive Director, at 262-473-2715.

Other Community Resources

Whitewater Food Pantry
146 W North Street (The Old Armory) 
262-473-5792
Open Wednesday and Thursday 8:30am -12:00

Community Clothes Closet
133 S Franklin Street
Open the third weekend in August to the first weekend in June.

Dial 2-1-1 First Call for Help
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Non-discrimination Policy:
Bethel House does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations.  We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all of our staff, clients, and volunteers.