Rainbow Roof Fund
Overview
Rainbow Roof Fund (RRF), formerly Willma's Fund, is a rental assistance program providing financial aid to LGBTQ+ people in Dane County, WI, to help prevent or relieve homelessness.
RRF provides one-time support toward rent and security deposit payments. We can provide up to one monetary gift per year, per client. Payments are made directly to clients’ landlord or leasing agency, and clients must have a current, signed lease.
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Application Process
Rainbow Roof Fund has a limited budget and cannot guarantee assistance. We accept new applications once a month on “Opening Day,” usually the second Tuesday.*
To apply for assistance, call or visit OutReach on Opening Day any time between 12:00 and 6:00 PM (our business hours). A team member will fill out an application with you.
It is not first-come, first-served, and there is no advantage to calling earlier. Every application is evaluated equally. You will receive a response within 1-2 weeks after Opening Day as to whether we can assist you that month.
You may also complete an application any time of the month outside of Opening Day. This is called a pending application. Your application is not final until you call back on the next Opening Day. You won’t need to complete a full questionnaire again; we’ll just ask whether anything has changed.
Due to the volume of requests, we cannot consider anyone who does not apply during Opening Day. We do not accept online or email applications.
*Opening Day may shift in the rare event of a holiday or other conflict. Check OutReach’s website and/or social media platforms for updates.
The 2026 Willma’s Fund Opening Days are the following Tuesdays: Jan 13, Feb 10, Mar 10, Apr 14, May 12, Jun 9, Jul 14, Aug 11, Sep 8, Oct 13, and Nov 10.
*Please note that there is no Opening Day in December 2026 due to OutReach moving to a new building.*
Program History
Rainbow Roof Fund was founded in 2011 as Willma's Fund, specifically to address LGBTQ+ homelessness.
Originally a small emergency fund supported by drag shows, the program grew significantly and now receives grants, private donations, and additional community support. We are proud to have given away over $400,000 in aid to LGBTQ+ clients.
In 2026, the program became Rainbow Roof Fund, a name that reflects its evolution and sharp focus on housing.
Click here to support our work on this ever-pressing issue! We are always seeking donations and grateful for your help.