Free Furniture and Household Items for Single Mothers in Wisconsin
Free Furniture & Household Items for Single Mothers in Wisconsin
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical, step-by-step hub for single moms in Wisconsin who need free or very low-cost furniture and household items. It shows where to call first, how to qualify, what to expect on wait times, and what to do if Plan A falls through. You’ll see statewide options like United Way 211 Wisconsin and agency programs like Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF), plus local furniture banks such as Habitat ReStore Furniture Bank (Dane County) and theExchange Furniture Bank (La Crosse). Save this guide, and call to confirm availability before you apply.
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Call or text for a live referral to furniture help now via United Way 211 Wisconsin or the state’s 24/7 lines: dial 211, text your ZIP to 898211, or call 1-877-947-2211; ask for “furniture vouchers, furniture banks, and delivery help.” Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) 211 info confirms 211’s hours and access in 180+ languages. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Apply for a one‑time Emergency Assistance payment if a fire, domestic violence escape, eviction, or energy crisis caused loss of furniture; use DCF Emergency Assistance (EA) and the ACCESS Wisconsin portal; the current maximums and timelines appear on the EA page, and EA is available once every 12 months. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- If your heat or lights are at risk, stop a shutoff today by calling your utility and then contacting the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP) at 1-866-432-8947; in Milwaukee County, call Energy Assistance/Community Advocates at 1-414-270-4653 for appointments and crisis processing. (energyandhousing.wi.gov)
Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy
- Furniture bank referral in Madison area: Ask your caseworker to refer you to Habitat ReStore Furniture Bank (Dane County); for donation/pickup questions call 1-608-663-1191 or see ReStore Dane locations. (habitatdane.org)
- Milwaukee St. Vincent de Paul help line: Request furniture/home visit via SVDP Milwaukee “Request Help” or call 1-414-462-7837; typical callback can be 1–3 weeks for a visit. SVDP Milwaukee home page lists current contacts. (svdpmilw.org)
- PSC Consumer Affairs (utility disputes): If a utility won’t offer a payment plan or threatens disconnection, contact Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) Consumer Affairs at 1-800-225-7729, or see the PSC Utility Customer Bill of Rights. (psc.wi.gov)
- Well Badger resource specialists (M–F, 7 a.m.–6 p.m.): For statewide help navigating programs, contact Well Badger Resource Center at 1-800-642-7837 or help@wellbadger.org. DHS Well Badger page notes free interpreter services. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Safe sleep — free Pack ’n Play: In Milwaukee call Milwaukee Safe Sleep Program at 1-414-286-8620; in Rock County (Janesville), contact Children’s Wisconsin Cribs for Kids at 1-608-314-9006 ext. 1. (city.milwaukee.gov)
How Free Furniture Help Works in Wisconsin Right Now
Start with the big referral hubs, then move fast on local vouchers. The most common routes are calling 211 Wisconsin for a same‑day referral, requesting a visit from Society of St. Vincent de Paul (local conference), or getting a caseworker referral to a furniture bank like Habitat Dane Furniture Bank or theExchange (La Crosse). 211 is confirmed 24/7 with text, chat, and multilingual access, per DHS 211 page; SVDP in Milwaukee provides home visits and can issue furniture vouchers after a short review window (often 1–3 weeks). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Furniture banks usually require a referral from a partner agency. Habitat ReStore Furniture Bank (Dane County) works by partner referral only; donations fund builds or are provided to clients, and ReStore offers free countywide pickups. In La Crosse, theExchange runs free shopping by appointment with your advocate; limited delivery is available within nearby cities if you can’t transport items. (habitatdane.org)
Expect to show basic ID and address, and be ready to pick up. Most councils and banks ask for a photo ID and verification of your current address; SVDP councils issue vouchers redeemable at their stores for basic furniture and household goods, and pickup/delivery varies by site, like SVDP Green Bay Resource Center and SVDP Appleton Voucher Program. Keep your phone reachable; some SVDP volunteers call from a restricted number. (svdpgb.org)
Reality check: Inventory is donation‑based. That means cribs, dressers, or sofas come and go. Habitat ReStore (Dane) states that furniture may be sold to fund homes or given to clients, depending on need, and theExchange notes they can’t hold “rain checks” for out‑of‑stock items. Plan to take what’s available and supplement later via Freecycle or a neighborhood Buy Nothing group. (habitatdane.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 211 for another local SVDP conference that covers your address through SVDP Milwaukee or your county, request a second referral via Well Badger, and search the Furniture Bank Network directory for additional partners in adjacent counties. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Eligibility Basics, Documents, and Timing
Programs focus on families with children and urgent need. SVDP conferences across Wisconsin typically serve households within their parish boundaries, prioritizing families with children; a Milwaukee SVDP request moves you into a home or phone visit queue. For disaster‑type losses, apply to DCF Emergency Assistance (EA)—maximum EA benefits are currently 1,200for2–5people(1,200 for 2–5 people (750 for energy crises) and once every 12 months, per the state EA page. (svdpmilw.org)
Bring simple paperwork to speed approvals. Expect to show a photo ID, proof of where you live (lease, mail, move‑in letter), and proof of need. If a shutoff or crisis is part of your situation, bring the utility notice to WHEAP or your SVDP visit; for Milwaukee energy help, Community Advocates Energy Assistance posts typical 7–14 business‑day processing for complete applications. (energyandhousing.wi.gov)
Typical wait times. SVDP Milwaukee notes volunteers will call within 1–3 weeks to arrange a visit after intake, and furniture bank referrals (like Habitat Dane or theExchange) usually schedule within 1–2 weeks depending on delivery capacity. Always answer restricted‑number calls. (svdpmilw.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t wait, search 211 Wisconsin for “furniture” plus your county, and ask about same‑day vouchers via any nearby SVDP store, like SVDP Green Bay or SVDP Neenah/Menasha. Also ask your caseworker to contact Sleep in Heavenly Peace if kids need beds now. (svdpgb.org)
Quick Comparison Tables
Statewide Gateways and When to Use Them
| Resource | Primary Use | How to Access | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 211 Wisconsin | Live referral to furniture banks, SVDP vouchers | Dial 211, text ZIP to 898211 | DHS confirms 24/7, >180 languages. (dhs.wisconsin.gov) |
| Well Badger | Navigate benefits and family services | 1-800-642-7837 | Free interpretation; weekday hours. (dhs.wisconsin.gov) |
| DCF Emergency Assistance | One‑time cash for crisis (fire, DV, eviction) | Apply via ACCESS | Current maximums posted; once every 12 months. (dcf.wisconsin.gov) |
| WHEAP/LIHEAP | Prevent shutoff, avoid fees | 1-866-432-8947 | Milwaukee: KeepWarmMKE or 1-414-270-4653. (energyandhousing.wi.gov) |
Wisconsin Furniture Sources (Free or Voucher-Based)
| Area | Program | How It Works | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee County | SVDP Milwaukee | Home/phone visit, vouchers issued | 1-414-462-7837 (Helpline). (svdpmilw.org) |
| Dane County | Habitat ReStore Furniture Bank | Referral from partner agency required | ReStore pickups: 1-608-663-1191. (habitatdane.org) |
| La Crosse/Coulee | theExchange Furniture Bank | Advocate schedules free appointment; limited delivery | 1009 4th St S, La Crosse. (theexchangelacrosse.org) |
| Brown County | SVDP Green Bay Resource Center | Home visit; basic furniture and household items | 1-920-435-4040 ext. 102. (svdpgb.org) |
| Fox Cities | SVDP Appleton Voucher Program | Clothing/furniture vouchers by application | 1-920-739-1679 ext. 208. (svdpappleton.org) |
Beds for Kids (Statewide Chapters)
| Region | Program | Who Qualifies | Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| SE WI (Racine/Kenosha) | Sleep in Heavenly Peace | Ages 3–17 without a bed | “Apply for a Bed” on chapter page. (shpbeds.org) |
| Portage/Sauk area | SHP Portage | Local kids needing a bed | Chapter events and request link. (shpbeds.org) |
| Chippewa Valley | SHP Chippewa Valley | Eau Claire/Chippewa counties | Ongoing deliveries; volunteer sign‑ups. (shpbeds.org) |
Utility-Shutoff Prevention (Works Statewide)
| Step | Action | Where to Get Help |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Call your utility and ask for a Deferred Payment Agreement | See PSC Bill of Rights for your rights. (psc.wi.gov) |
| 2 | Apply for WHEAP the same day | State line 1-866-432-8947; Milwaukee 1-414-270-4653. (energyandhousing.wi.gov) |
| 3 | If you can’t reach agreement | PSC Consumer Affairs at 1-800-225-7729. (psc.wi.gov) |
Baby & Toddler Household Safety Items
| Item | Where to Ask | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pack ’n Play | Milwaukee Safe Sleep | Call 1-414-286-8620; virtual class available. (city.milwaukee.gov) |
| Pack ’n Play (Rock Co.) | Children’s Wisconsin – Janesville Cribs for Kids | 1-608-314-9006 ext. 1; eligibility applies. (childrenswi.org) |
| Sleep tips | Children’s Wisconsin safe sleep | ABCs: Alone, Back, Crib/Pack ’n Play. (childrenswi.org) |
Step‑by‑Step: The Fastest Paths to Free Furniture
Ask 211 for a “warm transfer” to local furniture help. Tell 211 Wisconsin you’re a single parent with a lease or move‑in letter and need free basics like a bed, table, pots/pans, and linens; 211 can route you to SVDP, Habitat/ReStore partners, or furniture banks. Keep your voicemail open for callbacks. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Request a St. Vincent de Paul home/phone visit. Use SVDP Milwaukee’s Request Help form or call 1-414-462-7837; in Green Bay, start at SVDP Green Bay Resource Center; in Appleton, apply for vouchers at SVDP Appleton. Visits are compassionate, quick, and can result in vouchers for furniture and household items. (svdpmilw.org)
If you live in Dane County, ask your caseworker for a Habitat referral. The Habitat ReStore Furniture Bank (Dane County) serves referred clients by appointment; they also run free pickup of donated items, which keeps inventory flowing. Pair this with SVDP Madison’s service center information for furniture voucher timing (noted on local resource lists). (habitatdane.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your school social worker or housing case manager to make the referral on your behalf to Habitat Dane or theExchange in La Crosse, and contact Sleep in Heavenly Peace if your kids need beds immediately. Keep Freecycle or Buy Nothing open for fill‑ins like lamps or pots. (theexchangelacrosse.org)
County‑By‑County Highlights and What to Expect
Milwaukee County — Where to Start Today
Begin with a visit request to SVDP Milwaukee for furniture/clothing vouchers and referrals; the central helpline is 1-414-462-7837. For move‑in kits and basics, Community Advocates can connect you to energy crisis help and material assistance, and Milwaukee Habitat ReStores offer low-cost items if a voucher doesn’t cover everything. (svdpmilw.org)
If you face a shutoff or can’t pay a reconnection fee after moving, book energy assistance through KeepWarmMKE or call 1-414-270-4653; for disputes, call the PSC Consumer hotline at 1-800-225-7729. Combine a furniture voucher with a WHEAP grant to stabilize your home budget. (keepwarmmke.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your parish‑area SVDP conference directly (many list public numbers on parish pages like Christ King Parish SVDP), and keep an eye on posted donation‑day inventory at Milwaukee ReStore if you can self‑transport a low‑cost couch or table. (christkingparish.org)
Dane County (Madison/Monona/Middleton)
Ask your social worker to refer you to Habitat ReStore Furniture Bank; ReStore East/West also pick up donated items, which feed client inventory. For vouchers and home visits, use your nearest SVDP conference or the numbers listed on local directories like the Social Justice Center’s list for SVDP Madison furniture help. (habitatdane.org)
Need a Pack ’n Play? Madison‑area safe sleep deliveries are available through Babies & Beyond Safe Sleep, and statewide safe‑sleep education is available via Children’s Wisconsin. For general benefit help, call Well Badger. (babiesandbeyondwi.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a school counselor or Dane County Human Services worker to send a second referral, and check Buy Nothing groups for fill‑ins until your scheduled appointment. Use ACCESS Wisconsin to apply for other supports.
Brown County (Green Bay)
Use SVDP Green Bay Resource Center for a home visit request and basic furniture vouchers; the line is 1-920-435-4040 ext. 102. For kids’ beds, the De Pere SHP chapter recently expanded to cover more communities across the region; apply via Sleep in Heavenly Peace or the SHP site. (svdpgb.org)
If utility arrears are blocking your move‑in, call WHEAP to secure a grant and avoid deposit hikes. The winter moratorium runs Nov 1–Apr 15, per PSC releases and the PSC Bill of Rights. (content.govdelivery.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your case manager about SVDP conference boundaries, and check thrift pick‑up schedules at SVDP Green Bay stores for low‑cost items while your voucher is processed. (svdpgb.org)
Fox Cities (Appleton/Neenah/Oshkosh)
Start with vouchers through SVDP Appleton (portions of Outagamie/Waupaca), SVDP Neenah/Menasha, and SVDP Oshkosh; all list store/helpline contacts for furniture, clothing, and basic housewares. You can also request a furniture donation pickup if you’re transitioning homes and need one delivered later. (svdpappleton.org)
For quick add‑ons, ask about “dig & save” hours and pickup policies at SVDP stores, and use ACCESS Wisconsin to add FoodShare or BadgerCare so you can redirect cash toward moving costs. ForwardHealth Member Services can help replace lost insurance cards. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 211 to check nearby counties and the Furniture Bank Network directory, and follow up with your SVDP conference within 7–10 days if you haven’t heard back. (furniturebanks.org)
La Crosse & the Coulee Region
Have your advocate schedule a free shopping appointment at theExchange Furniture Bank; most items are free, and limited volunteer delivery is available for large items within La Crosse/Onalaska. For broader support, Couleecap and WHEAP can steady utility costs while you furnish your place. (theexchangelacrosse.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your shelter/housing worker to call theExchange again for cancellations, and contact the SHP Chippewa Valley chapter if your child lacks a bed. (shpbeds.org)
Wausau/Marathon and North‑Central
For household basics beyond furniture, check The Neighbors’ Place (Wausau) for basic‑needs resources and delivery options noted on their site, and call Well Badger to locate any current furniture partners in Marathon County. Keep Sleep in Heavenly Peace chapters in mind for kids’ beds. (neighborsplace.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Use 211 Wisconsin keyword “furniture” plus ZIP, and ask about any SVDP conferences serving your block for voucher pickup times. If transportation is the barrier, ask 211 for volunteer delivery options.
How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Wisconsin Today
- Call your utility right now and ask for a Deferred Payment Agreement; then call WHEAP at 1-866-432-8947 (Milwaukee County: 1-414-270-4653 via KeepWarmMKE). The PSC Utility Customer Bill of Rights says utilities must offer payment plans and lists medical/protective emergency holds. (energyandhousing.wi.gov)
- Know the winter rules. From November 1 to April 15, Wisconsin utilities cannot disconnect primary heat due to nonpayment, per the PSC and media advisories. After April 15, disconnections resume, so call early. If a dispute remains, contact PSC Consumer Affairs at 1-800-225-7729. (content.govdelivery.com)
- Bring documents. Upload your shutoff notice and income proof with your WHEAP application; the Home Energy Plus application portal notes 10 business days for online app processing, and crisis calls should use the phone lines posted. (heplus.wi.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call PSC Consumer Affairs to mediate; if a past collector is harassing you, file a complaint with DATCP Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-800-422-7128. (psc.wi.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not answering unknown numbers. SVDP and many caseworkers call from restricted lines; SVDP Milwaukee warns incomplete forms or missed calls delay service. Use voicemail and call back the same day. (svdpmilw.org)
- Waiting to apply after May 15. WHEAP’s core season ends mid‑May; during non‑heating months your options shrink, per Home Energy Plus and state updates. Apply early to avoid shutoffs. (energyandhousing.wi.gov)
- Expecting exact items. Donation‑based banks like theExchange and Habitat Dane’s Furniture Bank can’t guarantee specific pieces. Be flexible and plan a second pickup later. (theexchangelacrosse.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 211 to search adjacent counties, and check Sleep in Heavenly Peace for beds while you wait; add Freecycle as backup for small items.
Reality Check — Delays, Denials, and Shortages
- Funding and inventory shift month‑to‑month. State energy help runs on a heating season calendar, per DOA releases; furniture banks and SVDP stores restock based on donations, which surge after community drives or ReStore pickups. Expect lulls and keep following up weekly. (content.govdelivery.com)
- Referrals are not instant. SVDP Milwaukee shows a 1–3 week window between intake and a visit; theExchange schedules by available appointment slots and may limit delivery zones. Call early in the week to catch openings. (svdpmilw.org)
- Winter shutoff rules protect heat, not all services. The PSC’s Bill of Rights says heat disconnections are paused Nov 1–Apr 15; other utilities may still collect. Plan payment agreements now. (psc.wi.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Escalate energy disputes to PSC Consumer Affairs and re‑submit EA via ACCESS if a disaster or DV escalates needs; file within 45 days if you need a fact‑finding review. (psc.wi.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | First Call | Backup |
|---|---|---|
| Furniture voucher (Milwaukee) | SVDP Milwaukee Request Help | 211 Wisconsin |
| Furniture bank (Dane) | Habitat ReStore Furniture Bank | SVDP Madison info |
| Furniture bank (La Crosse) | theExchange – Get Help | 211 Wisconsin |
| Beds for kids | SHP Racine/Kenosha | SHP Portage or Chippewa Valley |
| Energy shutoff | WHEAP (Home Energy Plus) | PSC Consumer Affairs |
Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot
- Photo ID — WI DMV ID info, or any government ID; ask Well Badger for help if missing.
- Proof of address — lease, move‑in letter, or current mail; upload via ACCESS or provide to SVDP volunteers.
- Proof of need — fire report, DV letter, eviction or shutoff notice; pair with DCF EA or WHEAP.
- Kids’ ages — for bed/crib requests through SHP or Safe Sleep programs.
- Transport plan — ask about delivery windows at theExchange or request help through 211; consider Freecycle for small items.
Diverse Communities — Targeted Tips and Links
LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask Well Badger to flag welcoming providers, and use SVDP Milwaukee or Habitat Dane Furniture Bank without fear of discrimination; SVDP councils and state agencies follow nondiscrimination rules posted on the DHS civil rights page. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Request large‑print or interpreter services when calling Well Badger, and use Wisconsin Relay 711 if hearing/speech is a barrier; ask furniture programs for curbside delivery. PSC 711/TRS info confirms free relay services. (psc.wi.gov)
Veteran single mothers: Ask 211 to screen for veteran‑priority furniture help and energy grants; combine WHEAP with local SVDP vouchers. For disputes on utilities, use PSC Consumer Affairs to maintain service during transition. (energyandhousing.wi.gov)
Immigrant/refugee single moms: EA and WHEAP eligibility depends on household income and crisis, not citizenship status for certain benefits; ask ForwardHealth Member Services about emergency services options, and request language access through DHS language assistance. Use community partners to refer you to Habitat Dane Furniture Bank or theExchange. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Tribal‑specific resources: Call 211 and your tribal social services for local furniture partners; WHEAP and weatherization are also available via tribal offices listed through Home Energy Plus. For beds for kids, check the closest SHP chapter and ask about delivery areas.
Rural single moms with limited access: Ask 211 about volunteer delivery; use WHEAP to cut bills and redirect cash to gas for pickups. Program staff can conference‑call via Wisconsin Relay 711 or provide call‑backs to low‑signal zones. (psc.wi.gov)
Single fathers: The same programs apply. Request SVDP vouchers via your local conference, get energy help via WHEAP, and ask SHP for beds for kids. (svdpmilw.org)
Language access: Tell callers “interpreter please” when dialing Well Badger or ForwardHealth Member Services, or dial Wisconsin Relay 711 if you use TTY/CAPTel; agencies must provide free language assistance, per DHS. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
How to Apply — Three Common Paths
- SVDP voucher
- Call or submit an online request at SVDP Milwaukee; for Appleton or Green Bay, use SVDP Appleton or SVDP Green Bay. Expect a home or phone visit. Bring ID and address proof. (svdpmilw.org)
- Furniture bank by referral
- Ask your case manager to refer you to Habitat ReStore Furniture Bank (Dane) or theExchange (La Crosse). Arrange pickup/delivery; select available items at your appointment. (habitatdane.org)
- Emergency Assistance + WHEAP combo
- Apply to DCF EA via ACCESS, then file WHEAP to stabilize utilities; this frees cash for transport or delivery fees. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: File a utility complaint with PSC Consumer Affairs if a shutoff blocks move‑in; ask 211 for church‑based ministries with trucks, and check Freecycle for fillers.
Troubleshooting — If Your Application Gets Denied
- SVDP: If denied, ask which guideline you missed and whether another conference covers your address; re‑apply when your situation changes. Try 211 Wisconsin for another local voucher source.
- DCF Emergency Assistance: You can request a “Fact Finding Review” within 45 days if you disagree with EA’s decision, per the EA page. Bring new documents that show the crisis and your child’s residency. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- WHEAP: Ask for a supervisor review and upload missing documents; if a shutoff is near, call the state’s line on Home Energy Plus and notify PSC Consumer Affairs. (energyandhousing.wi.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Request help from Well Badger to find a legal clinic or advocate, or call the DATCP Consumer Hotline if a third‑party collector is violating your rights. (datcp.wi.gov)
Resources by Region — Examples You Can Call
- Milwaukee County: SVDP Help (1-414-462-7837), Community Advocates Energy (1-414-270-4653), and Milwaukee Habitat ReStore for low‑cost gaps. (svdpmilw.org)
- Dane County: Habitat ReStore Furniture Bank by referral, and SJD/Local Lists for SVDP vouchers. (habitatdane.org)
- Brown County: SVDP Green Bay Resource Center and Sleep in Heavenly Peace expansion coverage. (svdpgb.org)
- Fox Cities: SVDP Appleton vouchers and SVDP Neenah Helpline; Oshkosh residents call SVDP Oshkosh. (svdpappleton.org)
- La Crosse/Coulee: theExchange via advocate appointment and Couleecap for related supports. (theexchangelacrosse.org)
- North‑Central (Marathon/Wausau): The Neighbors’ Place for basic needs and delivery, and SHP chapters for kids’ beds. (neighborsplace.org)
FAQs — Wisconsin‑Specific Answers
- Can I get free furniture without a caseworker?
Try SVDP Milwaukee’s Request Help for a home visit/voucher; in Appleton, use SVDP Appleton’s voucher form. Furniture banks like Habitat Dane usually require agency referrals, so ask 211 to connect you. (svdpmilw.org) - What does EA pay for after a fire or DV escape?
DCF EA offers a one‑time cash payment with posted maximums (1,200for2–5people;1,200 for 2–5 people; 750 for energy crises) and resource connections; apply via ACCESS. This can replace essentials lost in a disaster. (dcf.wisconsin.gov) - How long does Milwaukee SVDP take?
After you submit a request, expect contact within 1–3 weeks to schedule a phone or home visit, per SVDP Milwaukee. Answer restricted calls and prepare ID and address. Pair SVDP with KeepWarmMKE if utilities are blocking move‑in. (svdpmilw.org) - Is there a furniture bank in Madison?
Yes—Habitat ReStore Furniture Bank – Dane County runs by referral from partner agencies; contact your caseworker or a 211 specialist. ReStore pickups keep inventory flowing. (habitatdane.org) - Where can my child get a bed?
Request via Sleep in Heavenly Peace; local pages include Racine/Kenosha and Portage. In Milwaukee/Rock County, free Pack ’n Plays are available via Safe Sleep and Janesville Cribs for Kids. (shpbeds.org) - Can I stop a shutoff while I’m applying?
Yes—call your utility for a payment plan, then apply with WHEAP; during Nov 1–Apr 15, primary heat cannot be disconnected, per PSC. If denied help or pressured, call PSC Consumer Affairs. (psc.wi.gov) - Do furniture programs deliver?
It depends. theExchange offers limited delivery zones; SVDP councils sometimes deliver for a fee or on volunteer days. Ask during intake and line up a friend with a truck as backup; 211 may know volunteer movers. (theexchangelacrosse.org) - Are there income limits?
SVDP is need‑based and local; EA is set at ≤115% FPL with asset limits per DCF EA; WHEAP uses 60% State Median Income and posts current charts via Home Energy Plus and county pages. (dcf.wisconsin.gov) - What if I need appliances?
Ask SVDP during your visit—some councils (like Green Bay) list basic household items. Also check Habitat ReStores for low‑cost appliances if vouchers don’t cover them. (svdpgb.org) - I need language or accessibility help
Agencies provide interpreters and large‑print on request; DHS lists TTY 711 access, and PSC TRS confirms statewide relay. Call Well Badger for an interpreter. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español
Esta guía fue traducida con herramientas de IA y puede contener errores. Para ayuda en español, llame a Well Badger al 1‑800‑642‑7837 (intérpretes gratis) y a 211 Wisconsin marcando 211 o 1‑877‑947‑2211. Para muebles gratis o vales, solicite una visita de San Vicente de Paúl Milwaukee (1‑414‑462‑7837), o pida a su trabajadora social una referencia a Habitat ReStore Furniture Bank – Condado de Dane o theExchange – La Crosse. Para evitar cortes de luz/gas, solicite WHEAP (1‑866‑432‑8947) y si hay problemas, contacte a PSC Consumer Affairs (1‑800‑225‑7729). Para cunas de viaje Pack ’n Play, llame a Milwaukee Safe Sleep (1‑414‑286‑8620) o Cribs for Kids – Janesville (1‑608‑314‑9006 ext. 1). (energyandhousing.wi.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- Wisconsin Department of Children and Families — Emergency Assistance
- Wisconsin Department of Health Services — Well Badger and program contacts
- Wisconsin Home Energy Plus (WHEAP) — DOA
- Public Service Commission of Wisconsin — Consumer Affairs & Bill of Rights
- Habitat ReStore Furniture Bank — Dane County
- Society of St. Vincent de Paul — Milwaukee, Appleton, Green Bay
- theExchange Furniture Bank — La Crosse
- United Way 211 Wisconsin
- Milwaukee Health Department — Safe Sleep / Cribs for Kids
- Sleep in Heavenly Peace — Wisconsin chapters
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
This guide is informational and not legal advice. Program rules change, funding varies by county, and availability can be limited. Always confirm current eligibility, required documents, and timelines directly with state agencies, county partners, or program providers before applying. If you have trouble with accessibility or language, ask for interpreter services or Wisconsin Relay 711. (energyandhousing.wi.gov)
What to do if this still doesn’t cover your situation
- Call Well Badger for a customized search with free interpreter support.
- File energy disputes with PSC Consumer Affairs if shutoff risks continue.
- Ask 211 for nearby counties’ SVDP conferences or smaller church‑run furniture ministries when your county is out of funds. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Keep going—you’re building a safe, furnished home step by step.
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- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
