Edgerton secures $300K HUD grant for community outreach and veterans housing project

In the heart of Edgerton, Wisconsin, a significant transformation is underway, driven by community spirit and collaboration. During the recent Rock County Board meeting, members discussed funding for the Edgerton Community Outreach and renovations at 210 West Fulton Street, a project that promises to uplift the lives of many in the area.

Supervisor Towns, who took the floor to present the initiative, highlighted the vital role of the Edgerton Community Outreach organization. This nonprofit has become a beacon of hope, providing essential services such as food pantries, transitional housing for domestic abuse victims, and support for school-age children. Recently, they have expanded their mission to include housing development for homeless veterans, a pressing need in the community.

The project, which involves renovating the oldest building in downtown Edgerton, aims to create six modest apartments specifically for homeless and low-income veterans. In addition to housing, the facility will feature a community space and kitchen, fostering collaboration with local organizations like the VFW and American Legion Post. Towns emphasized the community's commitment, noting that local individuals and businesses rallied together to support this initiative, recognizing the urgent need for such resources.

The project has already seen success, with all apartments now rented affordably to veterans who previously faced homelessness, living in vehicles or makeshift shelters. The Edgerton Outreach organization secured a HUD home grant of $300,000 in January 2022, which has been instrumental in bringing this vision to life.

As the board moved to approve the funding, it became clear that this initiative is more than just a renovation; it is a testament to the power of community collaboration and the determination to provide a safe haven for those who have served. The meeting underscored a shared commitment to addressing homelessness and supporting vulnerable populations in Rock County, setting a hopeful tone for future endeavors.