Waukesha Overflow Homeless Shelter To Open With County Support

A Waukesha overflow shelter designed to house 35 single men will remain open until next April 30 thanks to a commitment of up to $25,000 made by Waukesha County Executive Dan Vrakas on Monday.

The announcement was made during a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the re-opening of Siena House, a shelter for single women and their families operated by in Waukesha. Siena House was closed since July due to a funding shortfall.

“Donations and commitments of over $50,000 to date will permit the overflow shelter to operate from Dec. 15 through April 30,” said Development Director Cathy Malkani of Hebron House. “The county’s participation is vital in keeping the shelter open through the winter.”

“Homelessness in Waukesha County is a big problem, and I was challenged by our faith-based communities to match the $25,000 they had already raised,” Vrakas said. “It’s a good example of a private and public partnership.

 “The money will come from pre-budgeted Department of Health & Human Services dollars for AODA (Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services) and mental health treatment in residential facilities, because addiction issues are involved in about 75 percent of these homeless cases.

“I made the commitment on behalf of the county, because we recognize the need. We see an opportunity to offer support to these families and individuals, whether it’s developing job skills or providing alcohol and drug counseling. There are many reasons a person may be homeless.”

The county is working with Hebron House, other non-profit organizations, churches, schools, local colleges and businesses to find a solution to Wauksha County’s homelessness, according to Vrakas.

“If someone finds himself or herself homeless, we want it to be a one-time experience,” he said.