Dear Friends,

I am happy to report that, after just six months since our launch as the newest justice center in the Appleseed Network, Wisconsin Appleseed’s work is in full swing. I wanted to update you on our policy priorities and actions so far, as well as our plans for the new year.

We are at a crucial moment in this state. Families across our community are being pushed to the edge by rising housing costs, unstable rental conditions, and environmental decisions that threaten vulnerable neighborhoods. Did you know that in Milwaukee one in three renters spends more than half their income on housing? According to the Wisconsin Policy Forum, eviction filings have increased sharply, and critical tenant protections—such as rent abatement—simply do not exist.

Wisconsin Appleseed was launched to meet this moment. We bring pro bono attorneys, community leaders, and policy experts together to address Wisconsin’s toughest systemic challenges. Here are some of the issues WI Appleseed is already hard at work fighting to fix.

1. Housing Justice & Tenant Protections
Wisconsin is one of the few states without a rent abatement law or meaningful mechanisms to hold landlords accountable when homes become unsafe. As a result, families often pay full rent on units with mold, lead hazards, or broken heat. Wisconsin Appleseed is developing legal and policy strategies to strengthen eviction prevention, expand tenant rights, and support community-led solutions.

2. Environmental Health & Clean Energy Accountability
We are partnering with Clean Wisconsin to examine the health and equity impacts of new energy decisions—including the significant concerns raised in their recent report about increased pollution loads tied to large-scale data center development. Together, we are identifying pathways to ensure clean air, environmental safeguards, and more transparent public decision-making. (Read Clean Wisconsin’s analysis here.)

3. Protecting Democracy Ahead of the 2026 election cycle 
Wisconsin Appleseed is preparing a Voter Rights Guide and related legal resources to help residents understand their rights at the polls, access language assistance, and navigate new voting requirements. Read our blog post here.

If you believe in a fairer Wisconsin where families can afford stable homes, breathe clean air, and participate fully in our democracy, we invite you to join us. You can sign up for updates or support this work at www.wiappleseed.org.

Thank you for standing with us as we work to protect families in our state.

Sincerely, 

Michelle McCready
Executive Director
Wisconsin Appleseed