Homelessness can affect even the smallest community, including Marshfield. Luckily, there are active organizations like the North Central Community Action Program (NCCAP) to help individuals and families who are homeless or at risk of becoming so.
“NCCAP seeks to create opportunities for people and communities to obtain skills, identify and utilize resources, and explore innovative options necessary to reduce poverty and increase self-sufficiency,” said Barb Larson, Program Compliance Coordinator.
NCCAP serves low-income individuals in Lincoln, Marathon, and Wood Counties and has offices in five locations, including Marshfield. Its largest program, “Weatherization,” helps renters or homeowners afford heat for their homes and reduce utility bills.
Those who qualify for services generally have an income below 150% of the federal poverty level, but may also have a crisis which leaves them on the verge of homelessness, or already homeless.
“That crisis may be, they are on the verge of homelessness, are homeless, have an addiction or mental illness which caused them to be homeless, have lost their healthcare, have lost their FoodShare, need help with education to get a better paying job to support their family, or just need help navigating other resources offered in the community,” said Larson.
Though not an emergency shelter, the NCCAP fills service gaps in the area when there might be nowhere else for an individual or family to turn to. It maintains strong partnerships with many area service providers that work together to fulfill a person’s needs.
NCCAP is funded through State and Federal programs. Additional funds from the Salvation Army and United Way provides one-time rent assistance to prevent homelessness. With the goal of “putting the unity back in community,” the organization enjoys being helping others through crises and hearing people share their stories of success.
“It is very satisfying when someone in need reaches out and finds there are others who care and who are willing to help them get back on their feet,” said Larson. “We are able to share that others have been in the same situation and that they too, will be okay.”
For more information, visit the NCCAP website at northcentralcap.org.
