Our MISSION
To create local housing solutions that put people first and enrich our community.
Program Mission
In furtherance of the Shelter Development mission statement, the Francis Homes program has been created to provide housing opportunities for families experiencing housing instability.
Francis Homes Background
As of March 2025, Shelter Development maintains ownership of four single family homes in La Crosse, WI. Shelter Development has owned property for this purpose since 2015. Shelter Development has received significant financial support from FSPA to purchase and support Francis Homes (2022).
Francis Homes Statement of Intent
Shelter Development and the Francis Homes program seek to provide safe, affordable housing to households facing significant housing instability, for which lack of program participation creates a reasonable likelihood of the household entering into a literal homeless situation.
Francis Homes program participation is intended to be short term and stabilizing (18-24 months). During which period, the participating household will work with a partner case manager to address skills and resources necessary to exit the Francis Home into stable housing.
Francis Homes participants, or partner agencies, will enter into a legally binding lease agreement with Shelter Development (or designated Agent), for a period of 6 months, or 1 year.
Program participation will be considered successful if the household exits the Francis Homes program into
-Home ownership
-Fair Market Rental Unit
-Subsidized Housing Unit
