Explore Whitefish helps local restaurants raise over $420,000 to support rental assistance

Whitefish is, once again, showing the power of community. Local restaurants, through the 1% Community Support Fund, are stepping up to make a real difference for the people who call Whitefish home. In partnership with Housing Whitefish, this effort has already impacted more than 80 individuals working at over 50 local businesses—helping to ensure that those who serve our community every day can continue to live and thrive here. 

The program, made possible by the participation of Explore Whitefish restaurant members, builds on a long tradition of giving back. For years, Explore Whitefish has supported nonprofits through its community grant program. The shift to directly support Housing Whitefish in a much larger way has had an immediate and visible impact, with more than $420,000 being raised to date.   

“Whitefish has always been about people taking care of each other,” said Mariah Joos, owner of Ace Hardware and board chair of Explore Whitefish. “Our local restaurants and cafes are not only feeding us—they’re investing in our neighbors and in the future of our town.” 

Today, more than 27 restaurants, coffee shops, and cafes are participating in the fund, with more expected to join. While fewer than a handful of restaurants have chosen to step away, citing credit card surcharge fees as a priority, the overwhelming response has been one of unity and generosity. The fund continues to grow, proving that even small contributions—just 1%—add up to life-changing results. 

Housing Whitefish Executive Director Daniel Sidder emphasized the impact. 

“Since launching the Whitefish Workforce Rental Assistance Program in March 2024, we’ve helped 91 households—more than 160 individuals—stay in their homes and remain part of our community,” Sidder said. “That stability means kids can stay in their schools, businesses can retain valued employees, and neighbors can continue supporting one another. One year in, 71% of participants say they feel more confident financially than when they first applied. Among the 35 households with children, families tell us the program has given them room to breathe, room to buy new clothes, enroll kids in sports, and stay rooted in Whitefish.” 

The Community Support Fund is a reminder of what’s possible when local businesses and nonprofits work hand in hand. Explore Whitefish and Housing Whitefish invites more restaurants to join the effort and keep the momentum building.   

Explore Whitefish will hold its annual meeting on Dec. 2 from 4-6 p.m. at Grouse Mountain Lodge, with superintendent of Glacier National Park, Dave Roemer, as its featured speaker. A social media best practices educational session is offered prior to the meeting at 3 p.m. For more information about how to get involved, email Director of Member Relations Sara Knight at [email protected].