Financial & Housing Assistance
2-1-1 First Call for Help ~ Human Resource Council (HRC)
HRC was the first 2-1-1 telephone information and referral program in the State of Montana (Call 2-1-1 or 549-5555 serving Mineral, Missoula and Ravalli Counties 24 hours per day) with housing, health, education, training and employment resources; They’re also involved with youth education, skills and employment; They also helped get the inverted rate structure and a 15% year-round discount from Northwestern Energy for LIEAP eligible households, and a low-income residential weatherization program.
Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP): http://humanresourcecouncil.org/energy-bill-assistance-services
HRC Mineral County: 211 Third Ave West, Superior, MT 59872, (406) 822-4251, info@hrcxi.org
HRC Missoula County: 1801 S. Higgins Ave, Missoula. MT 59801, (406) 728-3710, info@hrcxi.org
HRC Ravalli County: 303 N. Third, Hamilton, MT 59840, (406) 363-6101, info@hrcxi.org
Able Forces
Able Forces Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, founded by a disabled veteran with a MISSION to provide immediate financial assistance to military and veteran families identified in financial crisis by military base or veteran Advocates.
115 Chester Street, Suite B, Front Royal, VA 22630
Questions: (540) 631-9600, skip.rogers@ableforces.org
American Red Cross of Montana ~ “Service to the Armed Forces” (SAF)
https://www.redcross.org/local/washington-dc/about-us/our-work/service-to-the-armed-forces.html
Emergency Communications, Financial Assistance, Resiliency, Veteran Appeals, etc.
SAF Program Manager: Sara (406) 750-9939, sara.cease@redcross.org
Red Cross is the “Communication Arm of the Military”
Reconnection Workshops: http://www.redcross.org/get-help/military-families/deployment-services/register-reconnection-workshops
“Be Red Cross Ready!” http://serve.mt.gov/american-red-cross-of-montana/
VOLUNTEER - Missoula contact: Gini, (406) 750-9939, virginia.kay@redcross.org
Or, Erin Helm, Disaster Program Specialist, Western Montana, erin.helm@redcross.org
AMC Space Available Travel
When congress signed the National Defense Authorization Act in 2018, 100-percent service connected disabled Veterans became eligible for Space Available Travel. Better known as ‘Space-A’ or military hops, Air Mobility Command (AMC) maintains an extensive network of flights throughout the continental United States, Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam and American Samoa.
https://www.amc.af.mil/Home/AMC-Travel-Site/AMC-Space-Available-Travel-Page/
At Risk Housing Coalition (ARHC) ~ City of Missoula Homeless Initiatives
https://www.ci.missoula.mt.us/2124/Homeless-Initiatives
ARHC continues to work on issues surrounding low-income housing and homelessness in Missoula and coordinates the local effort to plan and provide comprehensive services through a continuum of care.
Questions: cwoodrow@ci.Missoula.mt.us
Backpacks For Life ~ Veteran Owned Business (VOB)
https://www.backpacksforlife.org/bowerypack
Inspired by a United States Marine Corps. Veteran, The Bowery Pack was designed and engineered to not only sustain our homeless veterans during their time on the streets but also serves as a vessel suitable for your travel, hiking, and everyday needs. The Bowery Pack is the backpack that keeps on giving. Support this American Made, Patent-Pending Pack, built by the hands of military veterans and in turn, help thousands of homeless veterans get back on their feet.
Questions: info@backpacksforlife.org
CELL PHONES (Free or Reduced)
"People with Medicaid, SSI and other govt. programs can qualify for a free or greatly reduced cost cell phone service!"
CLOTHING
The Bethel Community Church Clothes Closet ~ FREE Clothing For Men, Women & Kids of All Ages
As well as bedding, towels, back packs, duffels; Open Tuesdays 10am – 1pm
1601 South 6th St. West (one block west of Russell), Msla, (406) 721-2780, www.bethelmissoula.com
Donations gladly accepted: Bring on Mondays 11am – 1pm or Tuesdays 10am - 1pm (Or, drop in brown wooden bin behind church)
CANNOT accept housewares / decor, books, electronics, furniture, or large baby items (car seats, strollers, walkers)
Questions: bethelcffa@aol.com
Coldwell Banker The Brokers ~ Realogy Military Rewards
https://realestateperk.com/RealogyMilitaryRewards/
When you connect with a real estate agent, earn between $350 to $7,500 in cash back* or rewards when you buy and/or sell a home.
Questions: Rachel Court, Coldwell Banker The Brokers, (406) 794-9915, rachel@cbthebrokers.com
DAV Disaster Relief
Our Disaster Relief Program supports veterans, service members, surviving spouses and their families during times of great need in the aftermath of isolated/large-scale disasters.
https://www.dav.org/veterans/outreach-programs/disaster-relief/
Questions: Fort Harrison, (406) 495-2089
Engel & Völkers ~ Broker & Spouse of Combat Vet
Interested in meeting with Bitterroot business owners, Veterans, and spouses. “Home Tomorrow” gives a portion of commission back to local Veteran non-profits.
102 B Main, Stevensville
Contact: Heidi Stahl, Broker license RRE-BRO-LIC-69841, (406) 207-1073, heidi.stahl@evrealestate.com
Grants for Veterans ~ Low Income Veterans
http://freegrantsforveterans.org/
Assistance for low income veterans with finding free grants. These grants help veterans with rent, housing, education, medical bills, and utility bills. Montana: http://freegrantsforveterans.org/grants-for-veterans-in-montana/
Questions: Carol Wright,
Grants for Veterans ~ Montana
https://montana.grantwatch.com/cat/38/veterans-grants.html
Grants for veterans for homes, home improvement, and business. Grants for the disabled veteran, small business grants for veterans and grants for individuals and organizations supporting veterans and their families.
Questions: (561) 249-4129 or submit question at: https://montana.grantwatch.com/contact-us.php
Homeless Veteran Recovery Program (VA Montana Healthcare System)
Ryan Luchau, Community Employment Coordinator, Montana VA Health Care System
To support Veterans navigating through some form of recovery and wanting to get back into the workforce
3687 Veterans Dr., Fort Harrison
(406) 447-7340, Ryan.Luchau1@va.gov
Homes for Heroes ~ Affiliate Lenders
Galipeau Mortgage
2620 Connery Way, Suite 100, Missoula, (406) 926-2618
Contact: Jackie Galipeau, C (406) 239-3473, jackie@galipeaumortgage.com
Keller Williams Western Montana
1817 South Ave. W., Missoula,
Wendy Bush, Realtor, (406) 531-4873, wendy.bush@kw.com
Homeword ~ Homebuyers, Rent Wise and Financial Fitness Workshops
1535 Liberty Lane, Suite #116A, Missoula
Financial Fitness Classes (Introduction to Achievable Savings Goals, Credit Repair, Retirement Strategy, Debt Repayment Plans, and Building YOUR Financial Freedom): http://www.homeword.org/our-services/financial-education/
Questions: Katie Sadowski,
Montana Street Homes ~ We are proud to collaborate with our fellow nonprofits to bring the Montana Street Homes to this community, including Garden City Harvest, the Missoula Food Bank and Trust Montana: http://www.homeword.org/our-properties/missoula/montana-street-homes
Questions: (406) 532-4663, info@homeword.org
Housing ~ Montana Department of Commerce
301 S. Park Ave., Suite 240, Helena, MT 59620
Montana Housing strengthens our vibrant communities by supporting access to safe, affordable and sustainable homes for Montanans whose housing needs are not met by the market. Our professional and courteous staff work to create a variety of housing opportunities for Montanans by partnering with local organizations across the state and leveraging federal housing funds available to Montana.
Questions: (406) 841-2840, housing@mt.gov
Or, TOLL FREE: 800-761-6264
Housing Montana Heroes ~ The Poverello Center, Inc.
thepoverellocenter.org
1110 W. Broadway, Msla, (406) 728-1809
Housing Montana Heroes (HMH) ~ Veterans Transitional Housing Program / Initial Intake: (406) 728-1809
Valor House, 2820 Great Northern Loop, Msla, (406) 829-3928
Grant and Per Diem Program (GDP) VA’s GPD provides short-term or transitional housing to Veterans experiencing homelessness.
During their stay, Veterans are provided with services related to substance use disorders, life skills, and/or employment in preparation for independent living.
Questions: Jill Bonny, MSW/SWLC, Director of Veteran Services, Housing Montana Heroes (HMH), (406) 532-6685, Valor House (406) 829-3928, jbonny@thepoverellocenter.org
Missoula Food Bank & Community Center
missoulafoodbank.org
1720 Wyoming St., Msla, (406) 549-0543
After school drop-in program (activities & free snacks): 3:30-6pm Monday & Tuesday and Thursday 2:30-6pm
Missoula Housing Authority (MHA) ****** VSN Housing Leadership ******
missoulahousing.org ~ APPLY: missoula.house
1235 34th St., Missoula
Through creative partnerships and innovative development, the Missoula Housing Authority provides quality housing solutions for low and middle-income households in Missoula and the surrounding area.
Family Self Sufficiency Program
This is a voluntary program designed to help individuals and families achieve their goals of employment and creating a savings. If you have a Housing Choice Voucher with MHA or live in Public Housing and have goals of employment.
FSS Coordinators at Missoula Housing Authority (Section 8): (406) 549-4113
Tamara Kindred (A-K) FSS Coordinator (Section 8), Extension 121, tkindred@missoulahousing.org
Rebecca Stancil (L-Z) FSS Coordinator (Section 8), Ext. 106, rstancil@missoulahousing.org
FSS (Public Housing) Sierra Lowney PHFSS Coordinator, Ext. 112, slowney@missoulahousing.org
FSS is a five-year, voluntary program for people who have housing subsidy vouchers and may be working through challenges such as employment, education, legal issues, basic needs, or financial problems. FSS participants must be below 80 percent of the Area Median Income. They may be single or part of a family or couple. FSS coordinators assess participants’ employment, education, credit, and other factors, including a narrative that participants can write about how the program will benefit them. They establish goals while on the program and sign a contract of participation. They may resolve to obtain their HiSet, go through more training, improve their credit score, or settle legal issues. The association has new online access to the voucher program waiting list. Missoula Aging Services has offered help to people who don’t have computer access: www.missoula.house
Having issues with registering? Please contact Shanda Walker, (406) 549-4113 ext. 113, swalker@missoulahousing.org
Our monthly Board Meetings are open to the public. Check out our website for the current month board packet and past minutes: https://missoulahousing.org/board-of-commissioners/board-meeting-schedule
Questions (VSN Leadership Team): Rebecca Stancil, Missoula Housing Authority, Family Self Sufficiency Director, (406) 549-4113 ext 106,
Montana DPHHS Senior & Long Term Care, Veterans’ Home Services
http://www.dphhs.mt.gov/sltc/services/vethome/index.shtml
To advocate and promote dignity and independence for older Montanans and Montanans with disabilities.
Senior and Long Term Care Division
General Help & Questions
(406) 444-4077
Montana Fair Housing
http://www.montanafairhousing.org/
Assistance with Fair Housing complaints, investigate allegations, and so much more!
Questions: Jodi Bartscher, Investigations Coordinator, (406) 782-2573, mfhstaff3@montanafairhousing.org
National Coalition for Homeless Veterans
The National Coalition for Homeless Veterans (NCHV) will end homelessness among veterans by shaping public policy, promoting collaboration, and building the capacity of service providers.
Questions: (202) 546-1969, info@nchv.org
Navy Federal Credit Union
Home Now offers down payment assistance for Montana homebuyers. The program covers up to 100% of down payment and closing costs, and it’s not limited to first-time homebuyers. Navy Feder-al Credit Union offers the Military Choice Loan as a no-down-payment option for servicemembers, veterans and reservists for serving our country.
Questions: Rachel Court, Coldwell Banker The Brokers, (406) 794-9915, rachel@cbthebrokers.com
NW Montana Veterans Stand Down & Food Pantry
http://veteransfoodpantry.org/
1349 Hwy 2 East, Kalispell MT 59901
Operation Warrior Sanctuary ~ Veterans Retreat in the Swan Valley (Daily Interlake 6/9/19), “Mission Possible — Food pantry founders turning former Swan Valley boot camp into veterans center”
“The Northwest Montana Veterans Stand Down and Food Pantry is in need of volunteers to help refurbish Camp Ponderosa, the former Swan River Correctional Training Center near Condon. Cash donation and in-kind donations of equipment such as a heating and cooling system are also welcome.”
Questions: Allen Erickson, (406) 756-7304, allen@veteransfoodpantry.org
Or, Cinnamon Davis-Hall, Community Outreach Specialist, NW MT Veterans Food Pantry & Stand Down, (406) 250-2394, cdhall03@gmail.com
Operation HomeFront
http://www.operationhomefront.net/
PENFED Foundation
https://penfedfoundation.org/apply-for-assistance/emergency-financial-assistance/
Emergency Financial Assistance: The Military Heroes Fund emergency financial assistance program offers financial assistance for wounded, ill, and injured post 9-11 veterans who are experiencing an unexpected short term (1- 2 months) financial setback.
PUBLIC ASSISTANCE, Office of
Help Line (M - F 8:30AM – 4:30PM online apply.mt.gov): 1-888-706-1535
https://dphhs.mt.gov/hcsd/OfficeofPublicAssistance.aspx
Montana DPHHS, OFFICE OF PUBLIC ASSISTANCE (OPA), 2677 Palmer, Suite 100, Missoula, hhshcsopamissoula@mt.gov
HAMILTON, 310 N 3rd St, Hamilton, hhshcsoparavalli@mt.gov
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly known as Food Stamps); Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF); Health Coverage (Medicaid; Medicaid Expansion Programs; Health Coverage for the Aged, Blind, or Disabled, & Medicare Premium Assistance); Emergency Assistance to Families with Children; Referrals
Questions: Kara Thomas, Field Operation Manager, Missoula Field Office of Public Assistance, Public Assistance Bureau/HCSD/DPHHS, (406) 329-1233, kathomas@mt.gov
Double SNAP Dollars
http://www.doubledollarsmt.com/locations
Shop with SNAP/EBT and get bonus fruits & vegetables – swipe your EBT card to buy SNAP eligible foods.
Missoula: Farmers Market, N. Higgins Ave. by the XXX’s ($20 match per market) Saturdays May – October, 8am – 12:30pm and Tuesdays June – September, 5:30 – 7pm
Clark Fork Market: Under the Higgins Bridge ($20 match per market) Saturdays May – October, 8am – 1pm
Questions: (406) 926-1004, cfacinfo@missoulacfac.org
Retired Military & Annuitants Online
Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS)
Request a 1099-R, report the death of a retiree, manage your retirement, and more!
Salvation Army
355 S. Russell St., Missoula, (406) 549-0710, Hours: 9am – 3pm
Social Services: Showers, laundry, food boxes, rental assistance, utility assistance, gas / bus vouchers, hygiene kits,
school backpacks / clothes, Christmas toys / food.
Church Services: Sunday School (9:30am), Sunday Worship (10:45am), Men’s Fellowship (Sun at 5:30pm)
Family Night Programs – Wednesdays 5:30pm (Kids’ Character Building Programs, Adult Bible Study)
http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/
Semper Fi Fund
https://semperfifund.org/get-assistance/
In the hour of need, our heroes deserve the very best care and support. We are committed to being there at the time of injury or illness and, if necessary, for a lifetime. Please reach out today.
Questions: 760-725-3680
Senior HOME CARE
Missoula Aging Services
Veteran Directed HCBS (Home Care)
missoulaagingservices.org
Or, Montana DPHHS Senior & Long Term Care, Veterans’ Home Services
http://www.dphhs.mt.gov/sltc/services/vethome/index.shtml
Social Security
One time Social Security Survivor Benefit of $255.
https://www.thebalance.com/who-is-eligible-for-a-social-security-death-benefit-2388916
Questions: Missoula Aging Services (406) 728-7682
Southwest Montana Veterans Home (SWMVH) – Butte
MT DPPHS - INFO & APPLICATION: https://dphhs.mt.gov/sltc/homelivingoptions/montanaveteranshomes/swmvh
Please send applications to Shaunda Hildebrand at PO Box 4210, Helena, MT 59604
Application questions: Shaunda, (406) 444-4209
Stockman Bank ~ VA Home Loans
321 W. Broadway, Missoula
Contact: Becky Pederson, Marine Veteran and Real Estate Loan Officer, (406) 258-1437, Cell (406) 880-6452, Becky.Pederson@StockmanBank.com
Union Mission Gospel of Missoula
Volunteer / Community Outreach Coordinator: April Seat, (406) 542-5240, outreach@ugmofmissoula.org
USA Cares
USA Cares provides financial and advocacy assistance to post-9/11 active duty US military service personnel, veterans and their families.
Questions: 1-800-773-0387, info@usacares.org
USAA
Insurance, Banking, Investments, Advice
United Veterans Council (UVC) of Missoula and Ravalli Counties:
Veterans Relief Fund ~ Emergency $ 24-hour-a-day hotline: (406) 544-2583 (Veterans only).
Must show DD214 ~ Limit $50 per Veteran per year, depending upon the need.
The UVC was formally organized as a 501(c)(3) non-profit in 1994. Private money pays for all the donations.
They host and plan all Memorial Day services, Flag Day ceremonies, and host, organize, and distribute “Santa Socks,” Valentines, Easter cards, and Thanksgiving food baskets. The UVC is made up of members of the American Legion and their auxiliaries, Veterans of Foreign Wars and their auxiliaries, Marine Corps League, Elks Lodge and DAV.
DONATE: Mail to Associated Veterans Relief Board of UVC, P.O. Box 5201, Missoula, MT 59806-5201
Questions: Susan Campbell Reneau, UVC, (719) 661-4037, bluemountain@montana.com
VA Home Front
877-4AID-VET, 877-424-3838, www.va.gov/homeless
VA Home Loans
https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/home-loans/how-to-apply/
Questions: https://iris.custhelp.va.gov/app/ask/
Things to know to build a home using a VA construction loan
https://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/39718/things-to-know-to-build-a-home-using-a-va-construction-loan/
VA ~ Homeless Veterans
https://www.va.gov/HOMELESS/for_homeless_veterans.asp
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development-VA Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) ~ A collaborative program between HUD and VA where eligible homeless Veterans receive a Housing Choice rental voucher from HUD, paired with VA providing case management and supportive services to sustain housing stability and recovery from physical and mental health problems, substance use disorders, and functional concerns contributing to or resulting from homelessness. HUD-VASH subscribes to the principles of the Housing First model of care. Program goals include housing stability while promoting maximum Veteran recovery and independence in the community for the Veteran and the Veteran’s family. US Department of Veterans Affairs. https://www.va.gov/homeless/hud-vash.asp
VA Housing Walk-in Clinic ~ Missoula: Any Veteran with any type of housing issue. Veterans do not need to be literally homeless or at risk of losing housing. Hours: Tuesdays 0800-1200 and Thursdays 1200-1600
Services Provided: Veterans will be assessed for current housing needs and referred to appropriate community resources; On-going case management and follow-up will NOT be provided unless the Veteran is determined to be eligible for and admitted into the HUD VASH program. Veterans will be referred back to providers or PACT SW for non-housing referrals (mental health, medical concerns, case management needs, etc.).
Walk-Ins Only: Veterans will be seen on a first come, first serve basis. Appointments will not be pre-scheduled. Veterans may call (406) 493-3724 on the day of the clinic to schedule a set time to come in within the available clinic hours. Location: HUD/VASH Office, Behavioral Health, Missoula VA Clinic, 2685 Palmer Street, Ste. B, Missoula, MT 59808; Questions - VA HUD VASH: Amy (406) 493-3724,
VA Healthcare for Homeless Veterans (HCHV)
https://www.va.gov/HOMELESS/hchv.asp
Questions: Eileen.Devine@va.gov
Homeless Patient Aligned Care Teams (H-PACTs) Program https://www.va.gov/homeless/h_pact.asp (Questions: (877) 424-3838 or chat online at va.gov/homeless)
Homeless Veterans Dental Program https://www.va.gov/homeless/dental.asp (Questions: carol.yakimo@va.gov)
Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) https://www.va.gov/homeless/SSVF/
Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem (GPD) Program https://www.va.gov/homeless/gpd.asp
Domiciliary Care for Homeless Veterans (DCHV) Program https://www.va.gov/homeless/dchv.asp
Questions: (877) 424-3838 (Available 24/7)
The Veteran-Directed Home and Community Based Service Program
Missoula Aging Services
Helps Veterans remain independent. To qualify, you must be enrolled in VA Healthcare, and the VA determines eligibility of the Veteran.
MAS Home Care: https://www.missoulaagingservices.org/our-services/case-management/
Contact: Shelli Fortune, Veteran Directed HCBS Care Coordinator, MAS, (406) 728-7682, sfortune@missoulaagingservices.org
Or, Heather Bergerson, hbergerson@missoulaagingservices.org
VETERAN DISCOUNTS
48 stores and brands that offer military discounts all year long:
Questions - TIPS:
Veteran’s Guide to Saving on Housing Costs
https://www.reviews.com/blog/veterans-home-buying-guide/
Walks readers through the many ways they can save throughout home-buying process (not just through the VA loan).
Our writer even worked alongside veteran experts to get their take on how to save!
Questions: Lauren Thomas (reviews.com), lauren.thomas@reviews.com
Veterans Meat Locker, Helena
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/VetMeatLockerHelena/
Veteran nonprofit that provides professionally processed and packaged meat to Veterans and service members at NO COST w/proof of service.
Questions: Christina Baker (406) 438-2179
Veteran Stand Downs – Nationwide
www.va.gov/homeless/events.asp
Volunteers of America ~ Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program (HVRP) & Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF)
HVRP provides homeless / at risk Veterans assistance w/obtaining gainful, long term, and meaningful employment. HVRP provides additional job hunting support services called “Individual Case Management” which includes job search assistance (resume reviews / preparation, referrals, interviewing skills, and retention / post-employment services), vocational training (financial assistance to get into training programs), transportation assistance, work tools / phone / clothing assistance.
SSVF is designed to assist with housing stability. Eligible veterans receive case management and referrals to Veteran Administration (VA) and community resources for securing or maintaining permanent housing. Participants may be eligible to receive short term financial assistance. SSVF provides eligible Veteran families with Case Management, assistance obtaining VA benefits, and other supportive services
VOA - HVRP Missoula: Nancy Wittmier, Employment Service Coordinator, (406) 926-3600,
VOA - SSVF Missoula: Kimberly Bell, Service Coordinator, (406) 926-3600,
VOA - HVRP Helena: Scott Brooke, Volunteers of America Northern Rockies, HVRP Program Manager, 406.996.1139, C 406.270.8074, sbrooke@voanr.org
Western Montana Mental Health Center
1315 Wyoming St., Missoula
ASK about Montana DPHHS' Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness (PATH) Program (for individuals who have a serious mental illness, or co-occurring serious mental illness and substance use disorder, and is experiencing homelessness or is at imminent risk of becoming homeless): Case Management, referrals to community behavioral health services, support services, health / dental services, job training, education services, and housing services.
Questions: (406) 532-9700,
YWCA
1130 W. Broadway, Missoula
Women / children shelter assistance: Gateway Assessment Center, short term motel voucher assistance (3 days – 1/month).
Emergency Housing – 50 day hotel voucher
Transitional Housing - 18month, 2 year subsidized program (pay 30% of income to rent)
Rapid Re-Housing – help with security deposit + 2 months rent
Walk-ins: 12-4 Monday-Friday (wait list)
Questions: (406) 543-6691
