Do you need affordable housing?

We’re Here to Help!

Winnebago County Housing Authority (WCHA), believes that having a safe, stable home is something everyone deserves.  We work with local, state, and federal organizations to provide homes and supportive services to the families and communities we serve.

WCHA administers programs for both Winnebago County Housing Authority and Boone County Housing Authority.

 

Northern Illinois Regional Affordable Community Housing
Review Housing Options

Step 1

Review Housing Options

WCHA (Winnebago County Housing Authority) has several housing options available, so finding one that fits your family’s needs is step one. Learn about each of our programs and their basic eligibility requirements.

Apply Illustration

Step 2

Apply for Housing

We know that applying for housing can be stressful, but we are here to help. To start the process, complete our pre-application. After 10 business days, you’ll be assigned a wait list number to track your application.

WHAT YOU NEED:
  • Names, birthdates, and Social Security numbers of all members of your household
  • Income information
Housing Application Status Illustration

Step 3

Check Your Status

Your number on the wait list is affected by your needs, the needs of others in the community, and the availability of housing. Once your application is processed, you’ll be able to log in to track your status on the wait list.

WHAT YOU NEED:
  • Last Name
  • Last four digits of your Social Security number
Family enjoying their new affordable home

Why is Affordable Housing Important?

A safe, stable home in a supportive community offers more than a place to live – it inspires hope and achievement. With affordable housing, families can thrive and focus on their futures. It reduces unimaginable stress, which improves physical and mental health. Through our housing and other support programs, residents achieve more in school and jobs, develop a sense of pride, and find a sense of belonging and community.

Safety
Stability
Supportive
Hopeful
Thriving
Pride

Featured Communities

We maintain extremely high standards for our communities with the goal of redefining perceptions about affordable housing. Here are just a few!

About WCHA

At Winnebago County Housing Authority, we create vibrant neighborhoods, fight blight in our communities, and address the negative impacts of poverty. While we are known for our housing programs, we actively develop and participate in initiatives to support growth and learning toward self-sufficiency for our residents and others. We’ve earned a reputation for innovation and are often looked to as leaders in affordable housing.

About NIReACH

Lets get social!

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Join our team and make a difference for families and their lives!

WCHA is hiring a full time property manager. A few of the responsibilities include:

Paperwork for leasing and rent assistance calculations.
Resolve resident issues.
Be available for after hours emergencies.
Coordinate services with community agencies.
Maintain accounts.
Be a supportive part of our team.

Residents and participants programs with any housing authority are strongly encouraged to apply. To learn more, please contact Deb Alfredson at dalfredson@wchauthority.com.
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Join our team and make a difference for families and their lives!

WCHA is hiring a full time property manager.  A few of the responsibilities include:

Paperwork for leasing and rent assistance calculations.
Resolve resident issues.
Be available for after hours emergencies.
Coordinate services with community agencies.
Maintain accounts.
Be a supportive part of our team.

Residents and participants programs with any housing authority are strongly encouraged to apply.  To learn more, please contact Deb Alfredson at dalfredson@wchauthority.com.

... See MoreSee Less

... See MoreSee Less

Digital Inclusion Week is October 7th through the 11!

The Winnebago County Housing Authority and the Boone County Housing Authority were part of the original 100 housing authorities in the ConnectHomeUSA program, creating strategies for local communities to bridge the digital divide and help bring internet services for low income families.

This work has included computer labs at all of our housing sites and the Washington Park Community Center in partnership with our friends at the Rockford Park District, free laptops and computer pads, training, and programs for employment, education, recreation and supportive services.

We have to give our strong appreciation to our Resident Opportunities and Supportive Services Coordinator Emily Schwartz, who makes this valuable program possible. Thank you, Emily!
... See MoreSee Less

Digital Inclusion Week is October 7th through the 11!

The Winnebago County Housing Authority and the Boone County Housing Authority were part of the original 100 housing authorities in the ConnectHomeUSA program, creating strategies for local communities to bridge the digital divide and help bring internet services for low income families.  

This work has included computer labs at all of our housing sites and the Washington Park Community Center in partnership with our friends at the Rockford Park District, free laptops and computer pads, training, and programs for employment, education, recreation and supportive services.

We have to give our strong appreciation to our Resident Opportunities and Supportive Services Coordinator Emily Schwartz, who makes this valuable program possible.  Thank you, Emily!

The Social Security Administration today has announced that monthly Social Security benefits and Supplemental Security Income payments for more than 72.5 million Americans will increase by 2.5% in 2025. ... See MoreSee Less

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Patrick Gates, I know you would have something to say to improve the process!

RRVP's Thanksgiving Food Box registration is coming up at the end of October! Registration will take place on Ocotober 24th and 25th. See flyer for details! ... See MoreSee Less

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News and Events

The Winnebago County Housing Authority has opened the public comment period for the 2026 Moving to Work Plan Supplement.  A 45-day comment period has been established beginning October 7, 2024 and ending November 21, 2024 at 5:00 pm.  Throughout the comment period, the document may be viewed by clicking below and seen at 3617 Delaware […]

The Winnebago County Housing Authority and the Winnebago Homes Association (collectively “WCHA/WHA”) is issuing a Request for Qualifications (“RFQ”), soliciting proposals for: The WCHA/WHA is seeking a development team to assist in new construction and rehabilitation of affordable housing in the Illinois communities of South Beloit, Rockton, and Freeport, as well as to facilitate additional […]

The Winnebago Housing Authority (WCHA) (dba NI ReACH) is issuing a competitive Request for Proposals (RFP) from experienced rental housing providers to receive Project-Based assistance for rehabilitation and/or new construction. The housing must be located within Winnebago and Stephenson County, Illinois. WCHA’s goals for project basing Housing Choice Voucher assistance are to increase and preserve […]

Are you interested in a career in construction and the building trades? Check out the program offerings and eligibility requirements here. For more information, contact Awaken Foundation L3C at 815-683-6009 or awakenfoundationl3c.com