Local Resources for Milwaukee Job Seekers with Disabilities

Start with employment programs

Two programs pay for ACO's employment services directly. If you are not sure where to start, these are the best doors to knock on first.

• Wisconsin Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) — Funds job placement, coaching, training, and accommodations. Register with DVR at dwd.wisconsin.gov/dvr/referral, then choose ACO as your provider. Statewide line: 800-442-3477.
• Social Security Ticket to Work — Free, voluntary program for SSI and SSDI recipients ages 18–64. ACO is an authorized Employment Network; you sign up through us. Learn more at choosework.ssa.gov or call 866-968-7842.
• Milwaukee Job Center / Wisconsin Job Service — Free job search help, computer access, and workshops. Call 888-258-9966 or visit jobcenterofwisconsin.com.

Food, health, and family services

Steady work is easier when the rest of life is covered. Wisconsin's Department of Health Services runs several programs that can help while you transition into employment.

• FoodShare Wisconsin (SNAP) — Monthly food benefits on a QUEST card. Helpline: 888-947-6583. dhs.wisconsin.gov/foodshare
• BadgerCare Plus & Medicaid — Health coverage for eligible adults, children, pregnant people, and people with disabilities. Call 800-362-3002.
• Medicaid Purchase Plan (MAPP) — Lets people with disabilities keep Medicaid coverage while working and earning more. Call 800-362-3002.
• Family Planning Only Services — Covers birth control, related exams, and reproductive health services. Call 800-362-3002.
• ACCESS Wisconsin — One online application for FoodShare, BadgerCare Plus, family planning, and other benefits. access.wisconsin.gov

Energy and housing help

Housing stability and utility coverage remove common barriers to keeping a job. These Milwaukee and Wisconsin programs can help.

• Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP) — Once-a-year help with heating and electric costs, plus crisis assistance. Hotline: 866-432-8947. energyandhousing.wi.gov
• Energy Services, Inc. — Milwaukee County intake for energy assistance. Call 414-270-4653 or visit esinc.us.
• Weatherization Assistance — Free insulation, furnace repair, and efficiency work for income-eligible households. Hotline: 866-432-8947.
• Housing Authority of the City of Milwaukee (HACM) — Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers and public housing. Call 414-286-5678 or visit hacm.org.
• Housing Authority of Milwaukee County — Rent assistance and vouchers for suburban Milwaukee County communities. Call 414-455-6800.
• IMPACT 211 — Free, confidential referrals for rent help, shelter, food pantries, and crisis support anywhere in Milwaukee County. Dial 211 or visit impactinc.org/impact-211.

Transportation and advocacy

Getting to work and knowing your rights once you are there are both critical. These organizations can help with both.

• Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) — Bus routes, reduced fare program, and paratransit for riders with disabilities. Call 414-344-6711 or visit ridemcts.com.
• Disability Rights Wisconsin — Free advocacy and legal information on employment rights, benefits, and accommodations. Call 800-928-8778 or visit disabilityrightswi.org.
• Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) of Milwaukee County — Local starting point for long-term care, benefits screening, and disability supports. Call 414-289-6874.

Need help navigating?

Phone numbers and eligibility rules for public programs change. Please confirm details with the agency before you apply. If you are overwhelmed by where to start, call ACO at 414-239-6465. We will talk through your situation and point you to the right program — no cost, no obligation.