Volume 2 | April 2021
Workforce Housing Newsletter
Greetings!

Welcome to our second quarterly newsletter to highlight updates, news, and stories about housing and financial readiness resources for Carbon County.

If you were forwarded this message and would like to receive future newsletters, CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP, or contact Robin Adams at 406-426-1983 | [email protected].
Owner-Built Workforce Housing Program
Future homeowners have made considerable progress on their owner-built homes in Red Lodge with the help of Helena Area Habitat for Humanity. The interiors are nearing complete with flooring, cabinets, and trim installed, with major steps taken to begin siding and porches.
The homes built in our Owner-Built Housing program are designed to be highly energy-efficient, the way people should build all new homes. Check out this blower door test conducted by the Montana DEQ to learn more. To help reduce their energy costs even more, consider donating to the Workforce Housing Solar Fund.
While we're always accepting applications, we have begun the selections process for the next cycle. If you'd like to be considered for this year, apply ASAP!
Upcoming Forums on Housing
April 20th, 9am: Public Hearing – CDBG Funding Opportunities

This public hearing will be held at the Carbon County Commissioners meeting. Input from the public is an essential first step to identifying potential affordable housing development project proposals to be funded by CDBG funds. The hearing will be held at 17 11th St W, Red Lodge, MT 59068. For anyone who wishes to participate remotely, you may do so by dialing 1-866-899-4679; Access Code: 635-072-381# or online at https://gotomeet.me/CarbonCountyMontana/commissioners

May 13th, 5:30pm: Beartooth Front Community Forum Housing Webinar

The Beartooth Front Community Forum is going virtual this year! On May 13th, they will hold this final webinar on housing in their 'Impacts of Growth' series. The webinar will feature experts on affordable housing solutions from across the State with a Q&A discussion with the audience.
Americorps VISTA Opportunity

We have an exciting opportunity for an Americorps VISTA member to join the Workforce Housing team for 1 year of service. The VISTA member will build capacity for volunteers at the Owner-Built Housing build site, update our Housing Needs Assessment and Strategic Plan, and research solutions for the lack of affordable long-term rentals the Carbon County workforce is experiencing.
The Montana Emergency Rental Assistance Program is now available for Montanans who have lost or experienced a reduction of household income or incurred additional costs as a direct or indirect result of the COVID-19 pandemic and are at risk of housing instability.

If you need assistance in applying for this program or any other government assistance program, please call the Foundation at (406) 905-1344 for guidance from our Navigator Team. To see if you (or your renter) are eligible, what application materials are needed, and details on assistance available, go to the Montana Department of Commerce website.
Upcoming Financial Skill Building Courses
Want to take control of your money? Homeword, a Montana 501(c)(3) nonprofit, offers free, virtual Financial Fitness classes for anyone in the state. These can help you learn to:
  • Navigate your complicated financial world
  • Create a budget that works for you
  • Quickly adapt to income or expense changes
  • Build solid financial judgement
  • Address credit and debt challenges
  • Gain financial independence by creating a savings and investment plan

Classes are offered once a month, with this month's running all day April 17th. The next class won't be until June, so take advantage of this free course sooner than later!
Want to get involved?

The RLACF Workforce Housing Steering Committee is accepting new members. Meetings are held the fourth Thursday of the month at 4pm. Contact Robin Adams at (406) 426-1983 or [email protected] to learn more.
Contact:

Robin Adams - Workforce Housing Coordinator
Red Lodge Area Community Foundation
Cell: (406) 426-1983