MADISON, Wis. — A new state housing program will help support individuals experiencing homeless and opioid use disorder.

Gov. Tony Evers announced the launch of the Recovery Voucher Program on Wednesday. It’s yet another step by the state to combat the opioid epidemic.

The program is funded by a portion of the $31 million provided to address the epidemic through Wisconsin’s McKinsey & Company opioid settlement funds. The state will put an initial $2 million into the Recovery Voucher Program to help provide safe, affordable and stable housing to those facing the disorder and homelessness.

“Wisconsinites across our state have experienced the tragedy of the opioid epidemic firsthand, whether they are working to overcome opioid use disorder, they have a loved one, friend, or neighbor who is, or they’ve lost someone they love to this deadly epidemic,” said Evers. “These funds will be critically important in supporting those working through their recovery to find hope, healing, and help folks regain dignity and security through safe housing.”

The Evers Administration is also partnering with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services and the Wisconsin Department of Administration to launch the program.

DHS Deputy Secretary Deb Standridge said a crucial step in overcoming illnesses like opioid use disorder is to provide housing.

“Basic needs, like housing or food, need to be met before anyone can overcome an illness, including opioid use disorder. Too often individuals in treatment and recovery for substance use disorder lack the safe and stable housing necessary to support them in their journey,” said Standridge. “We are grateful that Gov. Evers recognizes this and supports the Recovery Voucher Program to allow people with opioid use disorder to have a firm foundation on their journey toward recovery.”  

The DOA’s Division of Energy, Housing and Community Resources is taking the lead on administering the program. They’ll leverage supportive housing expertise and existing partnerships with the Continuum of Care Program in Milwaukee, Dane, and Racine counties and other local coalitions.

Starting on Jan. 1, 2023, housing agencies will begin working with Recovery Residences. Any Wisconsin resident diagnosed with OUD that is homeless or at risk of becoming homeless will have access to these residences, which aim to put them on a path toward sobriety..

“We’re proud to partner with DHS and local agencies to ensure that folks get their basic housing needs met through this important program,” said DOA Secretary-designee Kathy Blumenfeld. “Safe housing and shelter are critical for recovery, as they are for every Wisconsinite.”