Housing help is available in Great Falls

GREAT FALLS — The first week of the month can bring worries for many renters financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic - but help is available.

Opportunities, Inc. in Great Falls has rental and utility assistance programs available along with homeless prevention and rapid rehousing assistance.

Executive director Karla Seaman encourages anyone who is behind on payments or facing uncertainty to contact them: "Especially on utilities- if they don't have money to pay the whole bill pay what you can - whether that's toward your rent, your utilities, you know, pay what you can, and definitely if you need help with food, any of those items, we're just basically working with everyone through this.”

Seaman says the biggest service they've been providing so far has been rides for essential workers while public service transportation remains closed.

Opportunities, Inc.’s website is currently down, but their Facebook page is constantly being updated. You can also email oppincquestion@gfoppinc.org, or call 406-761-0310 for more information.

Those looking for help can also find a list of non-profits and organizations on the United Way of Cascade County's website.

President Gary Owen says they're proud to be partnered with so many agencies that help others in the community.

He says along with mental health, housing is another big issue issue from the pandemic that will continue into the near future: "When directives are lifted that prevent evictions and prevent foreclosures - we're working with NeighborWorks and planning on providing counseling services to people to avoid foreclosure and eviction.”

Owen says United Way of Cascade County is also working with other organizations to help people retain permanent stable housing. Click here for more resources at the UWCC website.

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