Wisconsin Department of Children and Families Engages UMOS to Help Restore Anti-Poverty Services in Milwaukee County
MILWAUKEE, WI – DEC. 1, 2025 – UMOS announced today that it has been awarded funds by the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF) to help restore Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) services in Milwaukee County. With Federal Fiscal Year 2025 funds, UMOS, as the interim agency, will address food insecurity, housing instability, and physical/mental health needs for low-income residents throughout Milwaukee County.
“Effective immediately, UMOS will work with its partners to offer these services,” said President and CEO, José Martinez.
“UMOS and its partners are stepping in to ensure services are available county-wide, and we are committed to serving residents in need,” said Martinez.
Said Martinez, “We already have a long history of working hand-in-hand with partner organizations, and in addition to using the CSBG funds to staff up, we have the resources and infrastructure to deliver these services quickly.”
“UMOS has been a strong partner in helping us build thriving families and communities, and we are excited to continue that relationship as we work together to alleviate the causes and conditions of poverty in Milwaukee County,” said Department of Children and Families Secretary Jeff Pertl. “Their longtime roots in Milwaukee braided with their successful and established social services programs makes them well-positioned to meet the emerging needs of Milwaukee County families. We appreciate UMOS for stepping up and for their expedient work in getting these critical services operational.”
“We can absolutely deliver these services and are well-suited to do so,” said Martinez. “Well-known for serving Wisconsin’s Latino community, particularly those residing on Milwaukee’s south side, UMOS has evolved into a multi-state organization providing comprehensive, wraparound services. Throughout our 60 years, we have expanded programs and services to assist people of all cultures and linguistic backgrounds who struggle to meet their needs and dream of a better life for themselves and their families. Working with our partners gives us an even better footprint across all of Milwaukee County.”
While the timeframe between being awarded a contract and beginning services is short, Martinez said UMOS is always preparing for new opportunities. He said, “With a data system already in place, initial conversations with key partners completed, and active membership in WISCAP, we are well-positioned to succeed. Backed by years of experience and a highly skilled team ready to pivot quickly, UMOS has already begun the work. We are honored by this opportunity and committed to making an immediate impact.”
“UMOS has been a longstanding member of the WISCAP network, and we agree they are in the best position to help bring critical poverty fighting services back in Milwaukee County,” said Dr. Courtney Hayward, Executive Director of WISCAP. “We appreciate their willingness to step up and the network looks forward to supporting them as they work to get those critical services back to those who need it the most.”
UMOS, a multi-state nonprofit, empowers individuals, families, and communities through integrated workforce, education, and social services. Its work inspires hope and a brighter future for all. More information is available at UMOS.org.
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