Milwaukee Continuum of Care

10/27/2026

10/23/2026

The City of Milwaukee has designated 2026 as The Year of Housing. Let's make a difference together.

A $20 or more donation to United Way supports six local homeless shelters: Cathedral Center, Guest House of Milwaukee, Hope House, Pathfinders, Salvation Army, and Walker's Point Youth & Family Center.

Your donation enters you into a sweepstakes for a chance to win four Brewers tickets for a 2027 home game, a parking pass, Brewers merchandise, and the opportunity to throw out the first pitch!

Deadline to be eligible is end of day of the last game of the postseason.

Full details at: https://www.unitedwaygmwc.org/Step-Up-to-the-Plate-Housing-Challenge?

Entry without donation can also be made. See rules for details.https://www.unitedwaygmwc.org/UnitedWay/Events/Step-Up-To-The-Plate-Housing-Challenge-Rules.pdf

10/09/2026

The Milwaukee Continuum of Care, also known as the Milwaukee Coalition on Housing & Homelessness, has named United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County as the CoC's new Lead Agency and Collaborative Applicant!

In its new role, United Way will help lead and coordinate the community's response to homelessness as well as apply for and oversee federal grants on behalf of the Continuum of Care. We look forward to continuing the great work of the CoC by collaborating with members to create effective, data-driven strategies that help families and individuals move to stable housing, maximize self-sufficiency, and prevent a return to homelessness.

Pictured is the Milwaukee CoC Team at United Way. From left to right: Zach Warren - Communications & Engagement Manager, Gregg Higgins - Compliance Manager, Wendy Weckler - Director, Krystina Kohler - Impact Manager, Safe & Stable Homes, and Mel Tatum - Executive Assistant/Board Specialist.

09/25/2026

Understanding the Four Types of Homelessness: Hidden Homelessness

Hidden homelessness is more common than many people realize. It occurs when individuals temporarily stay with friends, family, or others because they do not have a permanent place to live. This can include couch surfing, living in overcrowded or unsafe conditions, or staying in temporary accommodations. This type of homelessness often goes unnoticed because people may rely on their personal support networks instead of accessing homelessness services. As a result, hidden homelessness is difficult to track, and there are no reliable national statistics showing how many people experience it. Young people are believed to make up a significant portion of those experiencing hidden homelessness, as many may lack the income or resources needed to support themselves independently. Without stable housing or access to resources, hidden homelessness can become prolonged or lead to other forms of homelessness.

09/24/2026

Understanding the Four Types of Homelessness: Chronic Homelessness

Chronic homelessness is often the type most visible in public spaces. It is generally defined as experiencing homelessness for at least one year while living with a disabling condition that makes it difficult to obtain or maintain stable housing. People experiencing chronic homelessness may face significant barriers to employment, housing, healthcare, and other essential services. Without access to the right resources and long-term support, finding a path to stable housing can be especially challenging. Individuals experiencing chronic homelessness may live on the streets, in vehicles, parks, or other places not meant for human habitation. They make up approximately 17% of people experiencing homelessness in the United States. Of the 4 types of homelessness, this is the one people are usually most familiar with.

Continue to follow along as we explore the four types of homelessness and the different circumstances that can lead to housing instability.

09/23/2026

Understanding the Four Types of Homelessness: Episodic Homelessness

Episodic homelessness occurs when a person moves between being housed and unhoused three or more times within a year. Rather than experiencing one continuous period without housing, individuals may face repeated cycles of housing instability. Younger adults and people living with disabling conditions, including substance use, mental health challenges, or medical issues, are more likely to experience episodic homelessness. Seasonal or minimum-wage employment can also make it difficult to maintain stable housing while covering basic living expenses. Without access to the right resources and support, repeated episodes of homelessness can become chronic homelessness.

Continue to follow along as we explore the four types of homelessness and the different circumstances that can lead to housing instability.

09/22/2026

Understanding the Four Types of Homelessness: Transitional Homelessness

Transitional homelessness is often the most common type of homelessness and can occur when a major life change or unexpected event causes someone to lose their housing. Job loss, a medical emergency, divorce, domestic violence, or other sudden circumstances can make it difficult to afford housing and basic needs. People experiencing transitional homelessness may stay in their cars, on the streets, or with friends and family. Some may also enter a transitional housing program. Many continue to work but still struggle to afford housing. By definition, transitional homelessness lasts less than a year and is often temporary as individuals and families work toward regaining stable housing. Young people make up a significant portion of those experiencing transitional homelessness.

Follow along this week as we explore the other three types of homelessness and the different circumstances behind each one.

09/21/2026

Did you know homelessness can look different from person to person? A common misconception is that homelessness is visible and permanent. However, people can experience homelessness in many different ways depending on their circumstances, support systems, and access to resources. There are four recognized types of homelessness, each reflecting different housing situations, challenges, and paths to stability. Understanding these differences can help us look beyond common misconceptions and recognize that homelessness can affect people from all walks of life.

Over the next week, we’ll take a closer look at each type, with a new post each day explaining what it means, who may experience it, and how it can affect individuals and families. Follow along to learn more and help us raise awareness about the many faces of homelessness.

09/18/2026

MCHH Myth Buster Series

MYTH: They live in unsanitary conditions because they don’t care.

FACT: Unsanitary conditions among people experiencing homelessness aren’t due to a lack of effort or care. They’re largely the result of limited access to basics like toilets, showers, and trash disposal. Without a permanent, private place to meet basic needs, staying clean becomes extremely difficult. Some people avoid shelters because of safety concerns, strict rules, or limited personal space. When the daily focus is on finding food, water, and a safe place to sleep, sanitation often takes a back seat to survival. Research shows many people experiencing homelessness still go to great lengths to stay clean—using baby wipes or water from public fountains—because hygiene matters deeply to them.

When we replace myths with facts, we move closer to real solutions.



Do you want to stay updated on homelessness in Milwaukee? Visit the MCHH website and subscribe to our newsletter.

09/17/2026

Homelessness impacts hundreds of lives in Milwaukee every day. Those affected are our neighbors, friends, and loved ones — individuals and families working to meet their most basic needs.

For 50 years, Community Advocates has been a trusted source of advocacy, support, and essential services for Milwaukee residents. MCHH proudly congratulates Community Advocates on five decades of dedication to empowering low-income individuals and families and helping them build more stable futures. Through more than 40 programs, Community Advocates provides critical resources, compassionate support, and opportunities that inspire hope and create pathways toward lasting change.

Thank you to everyone at Community Advocates for 50 years of compassion, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to our community. Your work continues to transform lives and strengthen Milwaukee every day. Congratulations!