Whidbey Island Share a Home, also known as WISH, is partnering with Island County Veterans Services to help veterans and other Island County residents find and keep affordable housing.
The organization has been around for seven years, operating out of its office in Freeland. As of mid July, however, WISH has a second office location in Oak Harbor to better serve residents on the entire island.
“We do two things,” said Executive Director TJ Harmon. “We help match people looking for affordable housing with people who have space and are willing to offer affordable rent. We also help people stay in their homes.”
Kathy Reed photo
Harmon was excited by the prospect of being able to help Island County veterans who are in need of housing or in need of assistance to keep their home.
“We charge a $25 application fee and a match fee, which is based on a sliding scale. But if the service fees are a hardship, we try to identify a different method of payment,” she said. “If the service fee is a hardship for a veteran, Gerald Pfannenstiel, Veterans Services Coordinator for Island County, has offered to help with that.
“It’s a great partnership,” Harmon continued. “it allows more opportunities for people to participate in the program.”
WISH is a nonprofit organization that helps match people who need a place to live with people who have room to share and need either financial assistance or help around the house, for instance. Harmon said it’s a need that seems to be increasing.
“I believe it’s increasing for two reasons,” she said. “One being the economy. It’s hitting young families very, very hard. The other side is people on fixed incomes who need a little help. If folks are willing to help by sharing, it’s mutually beneficial.”
The tough economic times have also been challenging for nonprofits of all kinds. Harmon said WISH is entirely supported by donations from individuals and businesses. Volunteers are also welcome. Currently Harmon intends to spend two days a week at the Freeland office, which is located at Trinity Lutheran Church. The new Oak Harbor office is located at the Windermere building between Office Max and Arby’s on Highway 20.
Anyone interested in the program is encouraged to call for information or to make an appointment.
