What We Do
Our emergency shelter is open 24/7/365, serving men and women aged 18 and older who are experiencing homelessness. We have 150 emergency shelter beds, and each guest may stay for up to 90 days. Upon entry to the shelter, our clients work with case managers and advocates to take advantage of the robust programs and services that will help them secure permanent housing.
Our Approach
At the heart of Central Iowa Shelter & Services is the Empowerment Command Center—a strategic, research-based framework developed by CISS to guide individuals on their journey toward long-term self-sufficiency. Rooted in the belief that true change begins from within, the Empowerment Command Center focuses on cultivating personal agency, mindset shifts, and goal-setting, empowering individuals to become the architects of their own future.
This innovative framework does not replace traditional approaches to addressing homelessness—it enhances them. Built through collaboration with behavioral experts, service providers, and community leaders, the Empowerment Command Center introduces the Empowerment Formula, a practical process designed to help individuals shift their mindset, take ownership of their lives, and achieve lasting independence.
Embedded throughout CISS’s daily operations, the Empowerment Command Center shapes how services are delivered—from individualized case management and job training programs to life skills education and community partnerships. It ensures that every touchpoint with a guest or resident is an opportunity for empowerment, not just assistance.
CISS is more than a homeless shelter—it’s a launchpad for adults seeking stability, dignity, and a path forward. Guests and residents are provided with essential services such as daily meals, access to showers and laundry, group counseling, and referrals to community resources including Veterans programming, legal aid, and substance use treatment.
CISS offers essential services like an on-site health clinic, food pantry, and life skills training, while also running in-house job training programs in janitorial services, culinary arts, and sustainable agriculture. These initiatives provide job skills, generate valuable resources, and support both shelter operations and the broader community.
Through this integration of the Empowerment Command Center with essential services, CISS ensures that individuals are not only supported in the moment—but are genuinely prepared to thrive. Check out a more in depth information at The Framework – Empowerment Command Center.
Our Services
Currently, CISS is working to establish a coordinated entry system for eligible individuals through Iowa Housing Help (IHH). To fill out the form or learn more about IHH assistance, visit iowahousinghelp.com.
Our History
In 1992, five men froze to death on the streets of Des Moines. Despite the freezing winter temperatures, the men were denied by area shelters because they were intoxicated. With nowhere else to go, they were forced to find a place to sleep outside—but they never woke up.
A group of eight churches responded by joining efforts and creating Churches United, a traveling homeless shelter. Each week, one of the eight churches would take a turn hosting and feeding individuals in need. After a while, they realized that the traveling shelter model was not sustainable, so they began raising funds for a long-term space.
Their goal came to fruition in 1995, and Churches United moved into an 8,000-square-foot building, consisting of 96 beds between the emergency shelter and veteran’s dorm. In 2006, Churches United became Central Iowa Shelter & Services (CISS), a name that better communicated its mission and services.
In September 2012, CISS moved into the 42,000-square-foot facility that it operates in today. An additional wing was added in 2021 to accommodate a need for administrative offices and 24 additional apartments.
Today, CISS is equipped with 231 beds and is able to provide expanded housing services, emergency shelter (150 beds), transitional housing for Veterans (19 rooms), and Section 8 Project-Based Voucher efficiency apartments (62 rooms).
