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 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.
A 24/7/365 Emergency Shelter for men and women experiencing homelessness. Each guest is supported by a case manager who helps them access services and secure permanent housing.
A state-of-the-art greenhouse that features a HydroCycle Aquaponics System, which produces a low-maintenance, self-sustaining source of tilapia and fresh produce.
Our clothing closet provides adult clothing of all types and sizes—including cold-weather necessities—to any member of our community who needs it.
Our campus includes 81 single-efficiency apartments reserved for clients with Section 8 vouchers. 19 of these are designed to house veterans, 44 are project-based vouchers, and 18 are single room occupancy. Some apartments also meet ADA compliance regulations.
An ever-expanding farm program run by CISS staff and clients that provides healthy, locally grown food options, including fresh produce and sustainably farmed tilapia.
The Mulberry Farm & Food Truck is another innovative solution in the fight to end homelessness and food insecurity in Des Moines and beyond.
Summer Meal Meet-Ups, a program offering free meals to kids throughout the summer, invites anyone ages 18 and under to receive free and nutritious meals at sites across Iowa.
A CISS-supported program that helps people outside of Des Moines secure safe, affordable housing in their area so they don’t have to travel to access support.
CISS provides meaningful job training opportunities that help clients build skills, gain experience, and expand their resumes.
CISS partners with Hy-Vee Health Exemplar Care to provide quality on-site medical, mental, and behavioral health services to those in need, whether they use the shelter or not.
An on-site Food Pantry that provides individuals with a three-day supply of food for each member of their family, once a month. Made possible through a partnership with DMARC.
10% of CISS clients are veterans, and we provide housing, meals, clothing, and case management to help them overcome substance use disorders, mental health challenges, and financial instability.
CISS’ community kitchen provides fresh and healthy meals to those in need throughout the Des Moines metro area.
Growth Financial Services is a subsidiary of CISS that exists to help interested individuals use their paychecks to pay bills, budget, build savings, and more.
A hands-on, face-to-face initiative that aims to help the unhoused secure housing, receive guidance and support and begin their journey toward self-sufficiency.
