Central Iowa Shelter & Services Information

Since 1992 Central Iowa Shelter & Services’ mission is to provide free shelter and meals to homeless adults regardless of physical or emotional conditions, and to facilitate their move toward self-sufficiency. Each year, approximately 2,000 homeless women and men receive emergency shelter and supportive services to help them move beyond homelessness. In September 2012, CISS opened its new facility. The facility grew from being 8,000 square feet and 96 beds to 207 beds and 42,000 square feet. It is equipped to provide expanded emergency shelter (150 beds); expanded transitional housing for Veterans (19 rooms); and 38 Project Based Section 8 Voucher efficiency apartments. Along with expanded housing capacity, CISS also provides an on-site health clinic, food pantry, clothing closet and classroom. All guests and residents are provided evening and breakfast meals; access to shower and laundry facilities, a weekly medical clinic, and group counseling; as well as individualized case management, life skills instruction, and referrals to other community services/benefits. Programming continues to evolve to meet emerging homeless and community needs.