Emergency Shelter Grant

The State of Iowa's Department of Economic Development recently awarded West Des Moines Human Services a Homeless Assistance Emergency Shelter Grant for $23,500. Our Human Services department addresses the emergency needs of individuals or families at or near homelessness, including utility needs. During the 2005-2006 Fiscal Year, Human Services provided 483 local households with homeless prevention assistance worth nearly $45,000. That was an 18% increase from the previous year. This grant will help respond to critical needs in homelessness prevention. In addition to monetary assistance, Human Services provides guidance and planning to help families build strong foundations and encourage housing stability.

In the next WDM Magazine coming out August 20, West Des Moines Human Services provides success stories of their Transitional Housing Program, another important step in homelessness assistance. They also provide tips for strengthening the family unit, something we can all benefit from. Please watch for it and read it.