Couleecap News Releases and Media Alerts

4.21.25 Grand Opening of Prairie Eco Cottages Highlights Importance of Developing Housing that Addresses Both the Growing Costs of Housing and Energy in the Region  

​(Prairie du Chien, WI) - When you drive into the newest housing development in Prairie du Chien, the first thing you see is the solar field – a solar energy installation of photovoltaic (PV) panels that is converting sunlight into electricity. Prairie Eco Cottages, developed by Couleecap and the Gerrard Corporation, is providing 24 units of affordable, quality housing to income eligible workers, seniors, and disabled residents. The development is also powered by solar energy.
 
Prairie Eco Cottages held a grand opening event on April 21 where participants could get a closer look at the solar field and cottage-style apartments now offered to the community. The property, which is within walking distance to downtown Prairie du Chien, includes two buildings, each with 12 units, garages and private driveway parking, playground, and community room. One-, two-, and three-bedroom units have been available to rent to income-qualified tenants since January. 

Couleecap, an affordable housing developer for more than three decades, and partners at Gerrard Corporation incorporate solar into projects like Prairie Eco Cottages to reduce energy burden for residents and help ensure maximum affordability over time. “Crawford County residents earning the lowest incomes pay the largest portion of their income on energy bills,” says Hetti Brown, Executive Director of Couleecap. “Housing providers need to understand this. You can’t say that housing is affordable unless the energy bill is also affordable. That’s why we include energy planning into affordable housing development planning. We build truly affordable housing.”

Apartments at Prairie Eco Cottages rent for $478 per month for one bedroom, 700 square foot units, to $990 per month for three-bedroom, 1100 square foot units. All units are below the market rate for
rentable apartments in the county. Out of 24 units most were leased by the end of March, indicating the
strong need for quality affordable housing in the area. Paramark Real Estate Services is the property manager for the project.

The Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority, WHEDA, supports housing developments like Prairie Eco Cottages through the allocation of tax credits. “Affordable housing, especially in more rural areas of the state, is essential to creating strong communities. We are excited to be part of Prairie Eco Cottages to provide housing for families to celebrate special moments, create a sense of stability, and thrive,” said Elmer Moore, Jr., CEO and Executive Director of WHEDA. 
 
The project also received support from the WI Department of Administration, City of Prairie du Chien, Cinnaire Solutions, the Federal Home Loan Bank Chicago, Solar for Good, and Focus on Energy.
“Being able to celebrate new, sustainable, and affordable rental properties for Wisconsin working families, veterans, and seniors is not something we get to do every day, which is why DOA was thrilled to support Couleecap and our partners in this impactful development,” said DOA Secretary Kathy Blumenfeld. 
 
The Gerrard Corporation, a development and real estate company headquartered in La Crosse, has developed similar projects throughout the country, addressing housing shortages through community
and nonprofit partnerships. In 2022 the company was recognized with the prestigious Charles L. Edson Tax Credit Excellence Award for a housing development in River Falls. “Prairie du Chien is an ideal location for housing development. It is a hub for business, healthcare, education, and community organizations. Quality housing that the local workforce, retirees, and other residents can afford is fundamental for the success of the local economy,” said Paul Gerrard of the Gerrard Corporation.
 
Senior Vice President of Business Development for Cinnaire Solutions, Chris Jillings also spoke at the grand opening event. “Access to high-quality, dignified affordable housing is a critical need across Wisconsin—from our smallest towns to our largest cities," said Jillings. "Communities thrive when families of all income levels have their housing needs met. We’re grateful that the City of Prairie du Chien recognized this need and partnered with a thoughtful, community-centered team in Couleecap and Gerrard. From design and rent levels to energy efficiency and sustainability, this development reflects a deep commitment to the people who will call it home. We’re proud to be part of both this team and this community.”
 
Participants at the grand opening were able to tour the property. Apartments were open for viewing and people were able to learn more about the solar system from Sam Dunaiski, Executive Director of Renew Wisconsin. Renew WI is the administrator of the Solar for Good grant, a funding source for the project. “Projects like this should be accessible to everyone. For a household with a large portion of their income tied up in utility bills, clean energy technologies can have a major impact on their monthly finances. The Couillard Solar Foundation is making solar projects like this possible to people all across Wisconsin,” states Dunaiski.
 
Solar for Good is a partnership between Renew Wisconsin and the Couillard Solar Foundation to foster the expansion of solar power among mission-based nonprofits in Wisconsin. Focus on Energy, a program of the State of Wisconsin, also provided energy incentives for the project.
 
The community can learn more about Prairie Eco Cottages and find available units at https://paramark.us/property/pdc-cottages-coming-soon/

4.7.25 Wisconsin Residents at Risk as Federal Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program Employees Abruptly Fired 

WESTBY, Wis- A program that keeps Wisconsinites safe by ensuring homes stay warm and cool during extreme temperatures is at risk after abrupt actions by the federal government.
 
Last week, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) fired all employees of the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP, which helps residents pay heating bills and address energy emergencies.
 
LIHEAP provides energy assistance to low-income households with high energy costs. The program ensures energy security, prevents utility shutoffs and protects vulnerable households, including seniors, veterans and families with young children. LIHEAP payments go directly to local utility companies, ensuring that businesses remain stable while keeping families focused on building financial independence.
 
The timing of this action is especially concerning with the utility disconnection moratorium ending on April 15, and disruptions to the program could put households at risk of having their heat shut off when temperatures can still drop to dangerous levels and just before temperatures begin to rise. With no staff, it is unclear whether funding that thousands of Wisconsin households rely on for emergency heating and cooling will be available. Any disruptions to the program through staffing cuts would put the health and safety of Wisconsinites at risk.
 
In Wisconsin last year, LIHEAP served 74,389 disabled households, 77,526 senior households, and 33,373 households with children under the age of six. In the 2024 program year, 9,680 households received assistance through the LIHEAP program in the Couleecap service area of Crawford, La Crosse, Monroe, and Vernon Counties.
 
The LIHEAP program fills gaps as home heating and cooling costs remain unaffordable for many Americans. According to the National Energy Assistance Directors Association, home heating costs were expected to rise more than 14% in the Midwest Region for the winter of 2025 as compared to the previous year. LIHEAP is crucial for ensuring low-income households avoid utility shutoffs and can financially manage extreme temperatures without sacrificing their wellbeing. 

2.26.25 Compeer Financial Supports Couleecap's Business Development Program

WESTBY, Wis- Couleecap, Inc. is honored to announce that it has been awarded a grant for $5,000 from Compeer Financial as part of its General Use Grant Program. Couleecap is one of 41 recipients, with grants totaling $212,150.
 
“We are thrilled that Compeer Financial has chosen to support our Business Development Program and help aspiring business owners turn their business idea into reality,” said Ashley Lacenski, Community Development Director.
 
Couleecap’s Business Development Program assists entrepreneurs in building strong business models, developing essential business skills, and accessing technical support. Participants receive individualized coaching tailored to their specific stage in the business journey, whether they are launching a new venture or expanding an existing one.
 
Funding from Compeer Financial be used to provide entrepreneurs with individualized business coaching and other opportunities. Couleecap staff will work closely with participants to create customized business plans and provide the guidance needed to sustain and grow their businesses long-term.

10.30.24 REACH Center celebrates three-year anniversary and releases a new report highlighting stories, programs, and results.

Mayor Mitch Reynolds, Couleecap Executive Director Hetti Brown, and Scenic Bluffs Community Health Center CEO Kim Hawthorne

A wonderful crowd of REACH Center partners and supporters joins to celebrate this milestone.

Couleecap Board Members Roger Slama and Anastasia Penchi

Rosanne Northwood, executive director of YWCA La Crosse

Mayor Mitch Reynolds

Senator Brad Pfaff

Hetti Brown, executive director of Couleecap, Inc.

Sara Cook, Chief Development Officer of Scenic Bluffs Community Health Centers

​LA CROSSE, Wis. -- It's time to celebrate a very special milestone in La Crosse. The REACH Center, a place where local nonprofits gather to collectively serve low-income households experiencing homelessness and other challenges, is marking its third year of collaboration and service. To commemorate the occasion, REACH Center partners released an impact report highlighting client stories, programs at REACH, and results since the building opened.
 
REACH Center staff hosted a three-year anniversary party at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 30, at the REACH Center, 212 S. 11th St., La Crosse. Local officials including Mayor Mitch Reynolds and Senator Brad Pfaff spoke at the event.
 
Founded in the Fall of 2021 by a coalition of nonprofits, including Catholic Charities, Couleecap, Independent Living Resources, New Horizons, Salvation Army, and YWCA La Crosse, the group developed the concept of one building for all agencies to jointly address the needs of the homeless together. This group leased and later purchased the REACH building on 11th Street, which Mayo Clinic formerly used as a behavioral health treatment center, thanks to a $1 million grant from Senator Tammy Baldwin and an anonymous $100,000 donation. Other original funding for the project included grants from Mayo Clinic and the WI Department of Administration.
 
More than 6,127 households have been helped thanks to the REACH Center, and case managers and other staff from 33 agencies have used the building to serve La Crosse area residents. The REACH Center assists with a range of needs from homelessness and domestic violence to the phone and internet services. To view the REACH Center impact report, visit https://reachcenterlacrosse.org/.
 
Programming continually evolves, as does collaboration between agencies. Hetti Brown, executive director at Couleecap, calls it a "next level partnership," as agencies learn from each other, share expenses and create better outcomes for users. The model is replicable for other parts of the state, and state officials are watching.
 
"We've changed how we serve people in our community," said Brown. "It's just how we do business now."
 
Rosanne Northwood, executive director of YWCA La Crosse, agrees. YWCA La Crosse operates their agency headquarters in the building. "Within REACH, connection, assistance, and basic needs are met daily. The collaborative service model offers immediate connection to services for consumers as they work toward their self-determined goals."
 
THE BEGINNING
The REACH Center came about as a result of Covid-19. The concept for the REACH Center had been discussed among nonprofit agencies working together to address housing insecurity and homelessness in La Crosse for years. While the agencies were already collaborating through case referrals, frequent phone calls and meetings, and community data management, it was difficult for people to navigate between agencies spread across a large geography. During the pandemic, housing insecurity rose quickly, and the need for a coordinated response grew. When funding became available to address the need, agencies worked together to apply.
 
By the fall of 2021, the coalition of six nonprofits utilized a new grant from the Department of Administration to open the REACH Center. This group leased and later purchased the REACH building on 11th Street, which Mayo Clinic had been using as a behavioral health treatment center. Mayo Clinic provided funding and other donations to help launch the project.
 
"Having a 'one-stop' in which folks can receive a number of services and supports by multiple agencies has been something our community has needed for a very long time," said Heidi Svee, director of programming and personnel at New Horizons. "It can get very defeating for a client to be referred to multiple people at multiple agencies; even more so if they have mobility issues, lack of transportation or children who are not in school or child care."

​REACH PARTNERSHIPS
Some amazing collaborations are taking place at the REACH Center. A Total Navigation Team (TNT), made up of staff from New Horizons, St. Clare Health Mission, Salvation Army, YMCA, La Crosse School District, La Crosse Area Family Cooperative (includes La Crosse County), Couleecap, and Independent Living Resources, work together to help house people weekly. Additional agencies come in as needed.
 
Every Tuesday and Thursday morning, this TNT team meets with households that have challenges to get and stay housed or sheltered. Staff brainstorm with applicants, landlords and each other to help identify ways to get and keep people housed.
 
Last winter, a $50,000 grant from the La Crosse Area Community Foundation and Great Rivers United Way was provided to TNT to support housing and case management efforts. Those funds helped stabilize 73 households by providing: 7 motel stays; 40 late rent payments; 25 payments of 1st month rent and/or security deposit; 2 cases of utility arrearages and other miscellaneous support like bus passes. All TNT clients are connected to supportive case management services that stay with the person.
 
Of these 73 homeless households, 70 remain housed today (an average of $654 per household was spent), or a 96% success rate. That group hopes to reproduce that success again this winter.
 
"The community members that our agencies serve often must address complex personal situations with access to limited resources. It can be overwhelming and exhausting for someone who is facing housing challenges to have to tell their story repeatedly to multiple organizations in the hope that someone is able to help while navigating a complex service system on their own," states Sara Eckland, executive director at Independent Living Resources. "TNT was designed as an innovative, low-barrier resource for people so they can meet with multiple service providers during one meeting, needing only to share their stories once. The partnering agencies can then work together with the community member for education and connection on local resources," said Eckland. "It helps our community members with receiving comprehensive supports in a timely manner and helps the partnering agencies work more efficiently with their own limited resources."
 
Another innovative program is called Rent Ready. This program provides education and support along with financial assistance. It will help pay for credit reports and apartment application fees once individuals and/or households have a sustainable plan in place to pay rent.
 
The REACH Center Tenant and Landlord Resource Office is operated by a Landlord Liaison (Couleecap) and attorneys from Legal Action of WI. They can help potential renters write "Second Chance Letters" to landlords, mitigate conflicts, educate on tenant and landlord rights, and more.
 
Scenic Bluffs Community Health Center began offering behavioral health services at the REACH Center a year ago, and it hopes dental services won't be far behind. "To empower people to lead healthier lives, we emphasize preventive integrated primary care that addresses mental, dental, and social well-being as integral components of overall health," says Kim Hawthorne, CEO of Scenic Bluffs Community Health Center. "Targeting health disparities in our community by improving access to dental and behavioral health care in an integrated setting is our top priority."
 
The REACH Center Team welcomes any partner who can provide a valuable service to community members. It has become known for its inclusive service.
 
"REACH is important because it is a hub for resources in our community," said Katlyn Becker, lead case manager II with The Salvation Army of La Crosse County. "Being able to have a centralized location for our clients to receive services is imperative to working toward their goals, especially for those working with people not in shelters."
 
To learn more about the REACH Center visit https://reachcenterlacrosse.org/. The REACH Center is open on a walk-in basis Monday and Wednesday from 8:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and Tuesday-Thursday 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Friday is by appointment only. All are welcome at the REACH Center.

7.24.24 Couleecap and Gerrard Corporation Hold Groundbreaking for Prairie Cottages Housing Development in Prairie du Chien

On July 24, 2024, Couleecap and Gerrard Corporation broke ground on Prairie Cottages, a housing development in Prairie du Chien. The project will provide 24 units of affordable, quality housing to income eligible workers, seniors, and disabled residents.
 
The single-story development will include two buildings, each with 12 units, within walking distance from downtown Prairie du Chien. The property will include a community room and patio, garage and private driveway parking, playground, and offer one-, two-, and three-bedroom units. The buildings will offer the highest standard of energy savings available through the WI Green Built Home program. Solar panels will reduce energy burden for residents and help ensure maximum affordability over time.
 
“Every community is unique, and we need to bring housing solutions that reflect that,” says Hetti Brown, Executive Director of Couleecap. “Prairie Cottages was not only designed to meet housing needs of today, but with thought for tomorrow. For example, we made units that are well suited for families, but that people can age comfortably in. Our choice to implement solar and heat pumps will improve sustainability. These are intentional decisions.”
 
Prairie Cottages is receiving support from the City of Prairie du Chien, the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority, or WHEDA, Cinnaire Solutions, WI Department of Administration, the Federal Home Loan Bank Chicago, Solar for Good, and Focus on Energy.
 
Speakers at the groundbreaking included the WHEDA Community and Economic Development Officer, Rebecca Giroux, and Senior Vice President of Business Development for Cinnaire Solutions, Chris Jillings. WHEDA and Cinnaire provided financing for the project.
 
“WHEDA believes that to be successful, people must have safe, reliable housing and thriving neighborhoods to grow and prosper. We are proud to be part of Prairie Cottages, which will make a notable difference in the lives of people who call this home,” said Shreedhar Ranabhat, WHEDA’s Director of Commercial Lending.
 
Chris Jillings said, "We could not be prouder to be part of Prairie Cottages.  This will be an important community resource providing much needed quality affordable housing to one of Wisconsin's historic cities.  Our thanks and congratulations go out to our partners, Couleecap and the Gerrard Corporation for having us be part of this project, but also to the City of Prairie du Chien and its residents for making this housing possible."
 
The Gerrard Corporation has developed similar projects throughout the state, addressing housing shortages through community and nonprofit partnerships. In 2022 the company was recognized with the prestigious Charles L. Edson Tax Credit Excellence Award for a housing development in River Falls, WI and later featured in the December 2023 edition of CAPTimes for the same project. In 2024, the Gerrard Corporation received recognition by the Wisconsin Community Action Partnership (WISCAP) for their efforts in the advancement of affordable housing through nonprofit partnerships.
 
“Prairie du Chien is an ideal location for housing development. It is a hub for business, healthcare, education, and community organizations. Quality housing that the local workforce, retirees, and other residents can afford is fundamental for the success of the local economy,” said Paul Gerrard of the Gerrard Corporation.
 
Prairie Cottages should be completed in the first quarter of 2025 and the first residents will be welcomed in April 2025.

5.17.24 Haven on Main Receives Tax Credit Award to Build Housing in Downtown La Crosse

Haven on Main, a project to build affordable housing for adults with disabilities, local workforce, seniors, and families in downtown La Crosse, has achieved a significant milestone. The Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority, or WHEDA, announced the allocation of $1.4 million in annual tax credits to the project.
 
Haven on Main was the idea of Haven for Special People, a group of parents of young adults with special needs, educators, and caring community members. Haven for Special People has a common goal of creating a safe, affordable, and integrated place for disabled adults to live with other members of their community while helping to address the shortage of housing that creates challenges for all in our area.
 
“Special needs kids grow up to be special needs adults. Families of special needs adults typically have three long-term living options for their family members - An institution, a group home or living with a family member. Our group of local families is looking for a better option,” says Rick Diermeier, President of Haven for Special People.
 
“After seeing a successful example of this type of housing in New Glarus called the Prairie Haus, we knew we could do something similar in
​La Crosse,” says Roger Lowrey, Vice President of Haven for Special People.
 
Haven for Special People approached Couleecap, a nonprofit that works to address poverty and has been an affordable housing developer since the 1980s.
 
“I knew from the first conversation with Haven for Special People that this project had potential to fill tremendous need in the area,” says Hetti Brown, Executive Director of Couleecap. “Projects that are created by and led by community members are usually the most effective at doing that. Couleecap’s responsibility is to offer our funder relationships, grant writing capabilities, and development experience to ensure community-led projects become a reality.”
 
Working with Haven for Special People, Couleecap and their development partners at the Gerrard Corporation secured property at 10th and Main Street in La Crosse, designed a site plan and building, engaged neighborhood members, secured zoning approvals, and wrote applications for funding. The 70-unit apartment building will include one-, two-, and three-bedroom units and will feature a gym and exercise therapy area, outdoor recreational space, community rooms and kitchens, and rooftop gardens. Solar and geothermal heating systems will provide energy for residents.
 
Paul Gerrard with the Gerrard Corporation frequently works on tax credit development projects with agencies like Couleecap. “I thank WHEDA for their confidence and wisdom on funding this project through Low Income Housing Tax Credits. We believe the additional benefit of this project will provide developers and municipalities a development plan that includes solar resource products, geothermal heating, and financing mechanisms to make affordable housing projects complete.”
 
Local community foundations and donors contributed to the project early, making the application to WHEDA stronger. Our Sheltered Friends Foundation and the La Crosse Community Foundation both contributed to the project.  La Crosse County also provided an Acquisition and Demolition grant, and many community members gave generously through pledges.
 
Demolition and construction on Haven on Main will begin in late 2024 and the project will be completed in late 2025 or early 2026. 

5.8.24 Couleecap Has Served 1 Million People Since 1966 

Couleecap, the area’s Community Action Agency since 1966, has served 1 million people in Crawford, La Crosse, Monroe, and Vernon Counties since opening its doors to fight poverty. The milestone was recently announced in the latest annual report titled, “A Million Reasons”, which highlights stories of people served by the agency.

“We are proud of the impact our agency has had – from launching programs like Head Start or the first family planning clinics in the region, to developing programs that Couleecap still operates today, like weatherization assistance programs. Couleecap teams have always responded to the community’s needs. That is what makes the agency stand out,” says Hetti Brown, executive director of Couleecap.

Couleecap has developed, launched, and operated more than 247 programs in the Coulee Region since it opened. Those programs have focused on housing, food, employment, education, energy, transportation, and more.

The 2023 Couleecap Annual Report summarizes the agency’s current work and provides examples of how the work impacts clients. In one story, a person in Couleecap’s housing program explains their experience. “I didn’t have to wander; I didn’t have to carry everything I owned on my back. Couleecap provided me with a place where I can ‘just be’. You don’t realize how important that is if you’ve never experienced the opportunity,” says Jake. “The kindness and respect staff have shown me has helped me feel I can fully trust them, which is refreshing. It’s clear the staff at Couleecap are truly here to help people.”

To view the Couleecap Annual Report, visit our current report.

Couleecap explains what is next for the agency. Brown says their success is not only about building new programs but evolving the ones that already work.

“We are always looking for new ways to have a broader impact. Over the last couple of years, we have greatly increased our housing development capacity so we can better address housing shortages in the region, and have launched several pilot projects to build community solar and add solar to our weatherization program to better address energy poverty,” says Brown. “Poverty is persistent. So we need to be more persistent by always looking for better solutions.”

2.6.24 'Wisconsin Help for Homeowners' Foreclosure Prevention Program Scheduled to End  

​Wisconsin Help for Homeowners, or WHH, provides assistance to homeowners experiencing financial hardship and housing insecurity due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The program has helped over 400 households in the Coulee Region. The Wisconsin Department of Administration announced on February 5 program will no longer accept applications after March 8, 2024 due to low remaining funds. Click here for complete

10.25.23 Partnership Brings Benefits of Community Solar to Vernon Electric Cooperative Members

Governor Evers along with Senator Brad Pfaff and Representative Loren Oldenburg attend a ribbon cutting ceremony with representatives from Vernon Electric Cooperative, Couleecap, and the Office of Energy Innovation, signifying the opening of the Bluff Prairie Community Solar Array.

Vernon Electric Cooperative, Couleecap, and the Public Service Commission’s Office of Energy Innovation are partnering to bring the benefits of community solar to our area. Vernon Electric’s completion of the Bluff Prairie Community Solar Array, situated in the Town of Wheatland near Red Mound, brings a new source of local solar generation to the region. The 1.5 MW (megawatt) array houses 3,276 bifacial panels on single-axis trackers to allow for maximum power generation. 1,966 panels will be available to members for community solar subscriptions, including the Energize Wisconsin program. ​Click here for complete news release
 

8.11.23 Scenic Bluffs Community Health Centers Joins the REACH Center

“Social barriers have just as much impact on health and well-being. By co-locating in the same building with Couleecap, Independent Living Resources, Legal Action of Wisconsin, New Horizons Shelter and Outreach Centers, Salvation Army, YWCA La Crosse, and other agencies, we create an accessible, one-stop space and advance our collective mission to provide low-barrier, efficient, and compassionate services to residents,” Kim Hawthorne, CEO of Scenic Bluffs.

The REACH Center, 212 11th Street South in La Crosse, is gaining a new healthcare partner. Scenic Bluffs Community Health Centers is joining the collaboration of agencies who operate in the REACH Center through a new partnership between Scenic Bluffs, Couleecap, and YWCA La Crosse. In the REACH Center space, Scenic Bluffs will consolidate its current single-service locations in La Crosse to provide whole-person, integrated health services co-located with other programs and agencies that address social determinants of health.
 Click here for complete news release

5.23.23 Couleecap Community Harvest Food Pantry Opens in Norwalk

Couleecap has opened a new food pantry in Norwalk. Community Harvest Pantry is located within Scenic Bluffs Community Health Centers

Couleecap has opened a new food pantry in Norwalk. Community Harvest Pantry is located within Scenic Bluffs Community Health Centers at 200 West North Street and will be open from 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM each Wednesday.
 
Community Harvest is located in an area with high poverty, low access to healthy and nutritious food, and where many of the residents with the greatest needs do not have transportation. More than 30% of the population has poor access to groceries, and 46% of children and 27% of adults live in households with incomes below the Federal Poverty Rate. The pandemic only made these issues worse, as Couleecap witnessed as the organization mobilized to help residents who were impacted.
 
Click here for complete news release

5.18.23 La Crosse Community Foundation and Couleecap Employee Receive Awards for role in Community Action

Hetti Brown presents the Outstanding Friend of Community Action Award to Jamie Schloegel of the La Crosse Community Foundation.

​The Wisconsin Community Action Program (WISCAP) recognized the La Crosse Community Foundation and Couleecap Housing and Community Services Manager, Dana Casberg, for their roles in advancing programs that fight poverty in the region. The awardees were selected from a list of nominees collected statewide to be recognized at the WISCAP Annual Conference. Lieutenant Governor Sara Rodriguez and Secretary-designee Kathy Blumenfeld of the WI Department of Administration were speakers at the event.

​The La Crosse Community Foundation was honored with the Outstanding Friend of Community Action Award. The statewide award recognizes an organization whose actions have promoted or enhanced efforts and services to fight poverty in the state. Hetti Brown, Executive Director of Couleecap, presented the award. “The La Crosse Community Foundation is an organization that works to understand needs through community-integrated work and by investing in innovative solutions that forever change a community,” says Brown. “Director Jamie Schloegel and her team are more than grant makers. They are our strategic partners.”  Click here for complete story.

2.7.23 Governor Evers Visits Prairie du Chien

On Monday, February 7 Governor Tony Evers paid a visit to Prairie du Chien to highlight the recently completed and listed Work Force Housing created by Couleecap. Evers also paid a visit to the Bargain Boutique Food Pantry to learn about how they are continuing to serve the community in the ever-changing landscape of food security and insecurity. 
  Click here for complete story.

1.23.23 WISCONSIN EMERGENCY RENTAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM SCHEDULED TO END JANUARY 31. 
​The program has helped over 5,000 households in the Coulee Region.

​The State Department of Administration announced on Friday that the Wisconsin Emergency Rental Assistance Program, or WERA, will no longer accept applications after January 31 due to low remaining funds. The program, locally administered by Couleecap, was launched in February 2021 to help households experiencing a financial hardship and housing insecurity due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since that time, Couleecap has aided more than 5,193 households in Crawford, La Crosse, Monroe, and Vernon Counties with $22,604,157.00 in rent, utilities, and related household expenses. Click here for complete story.

1.19.23 Happy Retirement Dan! Thank you for dedicating 38 years to our mission!

​When Dan Kotek started with Couleecap he was just a young man fresh out of college. “I had just graduated from college the year before and I was working for a company that was about to go belly-up so I was looking,” Dan recalled of finding his job at Couleecap. “I actually saw the job in the newspaper, this was back in the days before you searched for a job on the internet. Had to open the classifieds in the La Crosse Tribune.”  Now, nearly 38 years later, Dan will be retiring from Couleecap on January 19. Click here for complete story.

12.15.22 The 'Collective on Main' Opens in Downtown La Crosse to Incubate Small Businesses 

​The Collective on Main is a new retail boutique at 320 Main Street in La Crosse designed to start and incubate small businesses within the Coulee Region. The grand opening event will feature six businesses in addition to smaller pop-up showcases. Grand opening hours are Thursday and Friday 2:00 – 8:00 PM, Saturday 12:00 – 8:00 PM, and Sunday 12:00 – 4:00 PM.
 
The new storefront offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to launch their business in a popular shopping district alongside other business owners in a cooperative space.

Click here for full news release.
​

12.2.22 Century Foods International Donation Helping Drive Away Hunger in Sparta 

Couleecap, Inc. is honored to announce that it has been awarded a gift of $10,000 from Century Foods International, the local manufacturing facility owned by Hormel Foods Corporation (NYSE: HRL) to help drive away hunger in the community. “Century Foods International has been an incredible friend and local partner,” said Hetti Brown, Couleecap Executive Director. “Their support has a positive impact on our community and those who struggle with food insecurity.”
 
In addition to the gift, Century Foods International employees donated almost 300 pounds of holiday food that was distributed in the food pantry for the Thanksgiving holiday. "As a global branded food company, helping to fight hunger is near and dear to the hearts of our entire team," said Bill Stewart, general manager at Century Foods International. “Our inspired and dedicated team members make it possible for us to help those in need. We are proud to partner with Couleecap, Inc. in fighting hunger in our community.” Click here for full news release.

11.30.22 Couleecap Purchases New Van for Food Deliveries in Monroe County

​Couleecap has recently purchased a new refrigerated van to deliver food to households throughout Monroe County. The van will also allow Couleecap to pick up food donations from various food pantry supporters in our area to ensure their food pantry is stocked with food resources for those in need.
 
“Accessible, healthy food options are fundamental to creating thriving children, families, and communities,” said Theresa Rogalla, Couleecap Food Programs Coordinator. “By removing barriers to healthy food for all residents, we make our community stronger and a better place to live.”
 
Grant funds from the Otto Bremer Trust, WI Department of Health Services’ TEFAP (The Emergency Food Assistance Program), and WI Department of Children and Families’ Community Services Block Grant made the purchase of this van possible. "Adequate food and housing are essential for helping people achieve stability and self-sufficiency,” said Charlotte Johnson, co-CEO and trustee, Otto Bremer Trust. “Couleecap has been an important provider of programs to people of low income in western Wisconsin.”  Click here for full news release.

11.16.22 New Business Incubator in Downtown La Crosse Shopping District Seeks Retailers

 A new retail incubator in the heart of downtown La Crosse is seeking people who wish to start or expand their business. Couleecap is opening the site, which will host eight to ten small businesses as well as weekend and special pop-up events so new products are regularly featured for the public.
 
The new store, located at 320 Main Street in La Crosse, will open this holiday season. Businesses operating in the site will receive flexible lease terms with escalating rent starting as low as zero rent for the first three months, business planning assistance, onsite workshops, and other support to help ensure a successful venture. Click here for full news release.

11.01.22 Couleecap Launches Solar Energy and Weatherization Pilot Project to Address Energy Poverty in Wisconsin

Couleecap has announced a new pilot project to integrate advanced energy conservation technologies, such as solar and air source heat pumps, into existing weatherization programs to further reduce energy costs for low-income households in Wisconsin. A Couleecap-owned rental property on 8th Street South in La Crosse is one of two pilot sites. The second pilot site is being identified in partnership with the Monroe County Housing Authority. Click here for full news release.

10.27.22 Couleecap Board Director Nidia Alcantar Receives Herb Kohl Helping Hand Award

​The Wisconsin Community Action Program (WISCAP) recognized Couleecap Board Director Nidia Alcantar with the Herb Kohl Helping Hand Award at the annual Poverty Matters conference in Madison, Wisconsin on October 19. The statewide award recognizes an individual or organization that has demonstrated leadership and commitment to addressing the needs of low-income people. Click here for full news release.

9.15.22 Couleecap announces new business incubator with grant from La Crosse Community Foundation

Couleecap today announced it is opening a new small business incubator to support entrepreneurship, economic vitality, and business diversity in the area. The program, funded in part by a three-year $90,000 grant from the La Crosse Community Foundation, is designed to increase equity and stimulate the local economy by focusing on businesses owned by women, people of color, veterans and entrepreneurs starting with low incomes. The community is invited to help choose a logo and name the new venture. Click here for full news release.

7.21.22 Couleecap and Legal Action of Wisconsin Open a Tenant & Landlord Resource Office in the City of La Crosse ​

Couleecap and Legal Action of Wisconsin have partnered to create a new Tenant and Landlord Resource Office in the City of La Crosse. The office is in the REACH Services and Resources Center at 212 11th Street South and offers walk-in services and appointments for renters seeking assistance completing housing application and appeals, conflict resolution, education and information, and other resources. The office is also a place where landlords can seek assistance to support healthy relationships with tenants, information about landlord-tenant laws, and referrals to programs if their tenants are struggling. Click here for full news release.

5.26.22 Couleecap 'Help For Homeowners' Program Serves More Households with New Eligibility Guidelines 

 In March, Couleecap launched the Wisconsin Help for Homeowners Program providing assistance to homeowners who have fallen behind on their mortgage, property taxes, or other expenses because of financial hardship caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Recent changes to the income limits used to qualify applicants for the program mean that more households may be eligible for the program.
​Click Here for the Full News Release.

5.11.22 Couleecap Showcases Latest Housing Development in the La Crosse Washburn Neighborhood and Welcomes New Homebuyers into their Home

​Couleecap, the City of La Crosse Community Development Committee, and other supporters celebrated the latest new home built under the Couleecap Coulee Housing Development program. The home, located at 529 Winnebago Street, was developed as affordable housing with support from the City of La Crosse Community Development Block Grant fund. Click Here for the Full News Release.

4.26.22 Couleecap and City of Prairie du Chien Break Ground on New Workforce Housing Development

Couleecap and the City of Prairie du Chien broke ground on a new housing development to support the local workforce. The project, located on Brunson Street, will build four, three-bedroom, two-bathroom homes to be sold to families earning up to 80% of the County Median Income. Each home will have a full basement and a garage. Click here for the full News Release.

3.9.2022 Couleecap Launches WI Help For Homeowners Program

​Couleecap now offers assistance to homeowners who have fallen behind on their mortgage or other costs related to home ownership due to financial hardship caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The WI Help for Homeowners Program, or WHH, was announced by Governor Tony Evers earlier this week and is funded by the U.S. Department of Treasury for COVID relief. Couleecap is delivering the program with the WI Community Action Program (WISCAP) in partnership with the Department of Administration.
​Click here for the Full News Release.

1.24.2022 Couleecap delivers over $8.6 Million in Emergency Rental and Energy Assistance Payments to Low Income Households affected by COVID in the Coulee Region 

(Westby) - The Wisconsin Emergency Rental Assistance Program, or WERA, was launched in February 2021 to help households experiencing a financial hardship and housing insecurity due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Couleecap, the local poverty-fighting community action agency serving Crawford, La Crosse, Monroe, and Vernon Counties, launched the program after successfully operating a similar program in 2020. Like the earlier program, WERA is made possible through partnership with the Wisconsin Department of Administration (DOA) and the Wisconsin Community Action Program (WISCAP). Click Here for the Full News Release.

12.14.2021 New program helps families pay water bills

​(Westby, WI) – A new Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) was developed as part of the response to the COVID-19 pandemic to provide water bill assistance to eligible households. Households that qualify for bill assistance will be referred to Couleecap for water conservation repairs in their home to prevent future financial struggles. Click Here for the Full News Release.