Wausau Police Department hoping to lock-in ARPA funding to address homelessness [Video]

WAUSAU, Wis. (WSAW) – The Wausau Police Department is looking to request American Rescue Plan Act funds to address homelessness in the city of Wausau.

On Thursday night, the Wausau City Council will consider a request from the Wausau Police Department to allocate approximately $400,000 in ARPA funding for programs or services for people experiencing homelessness. According to documents in the council meeting agenda packet, Catholic Charities notified the city that it will no longer provide day shelter services in 2025.

The money would be used by the police department’s Community Outreach Specialist for services including day shelter, night shelter, transportation and case management. The Community Outreach Specialist is employed by the police department and focuses on connecting the unhoused with services.

American Rescue Plan Act funds can be spent through the end of 2026, but must be allocated by December 31, 2024.

The Wausau City Council meets Thursday night …