Central Iowa Shelter & Services

Central Iowa Shelter & Services Learn more at https://centraliowashelter.org/ In September 2012, CISS opened its new facility.

CISS is committed to providing low-barrier shelter, meals, and support services at no cost to adults and families experiencing homelessness, while also facilitating their move towards self-sufficiency. 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-s

ufficiency. Approximately 2,000 homeless women and men have received emergency shelter and supportive services to help them move beyond homelessness each year. 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.

Sometimes, the smallest acts of kindness can leave the biggest impact. 💚David and his son were recently housed after bot...
09/01/2026

Sometimes, the smallest acts of kindness can leave the biggest impact. 💚
David and his son were recently housed after both being clients at CISS, read their story with Bob, a star CISS supporter, below!

Several years ago, David found a hat in the trash and fixed it up. Over time, it became his signature hat and something he was known for throughout his stay at the shelter. More recently, some friends gifted him another hat, which he customized as well. He then passed his original hat on to his son, who is now housed alongside him.

David also spoke fondly about Bob, describing him as a bright light during his time at CISS. Bob would always greet him at dinner service and jokingly steal his hat. Wanting to return the kindness and laughter Bob brought him, David decided to find another hat and customize it specifically for Bob. He then surprised Bob with a hat of his very own.

David wanted to express how grateful he is for the staff at CISS and gave special recognition to Rosa. He shared that Rosa was incredibly kind to him and his son when they needed support the most. Because of her help, they were able to remain on an extension until their housing was ready.

David said that the staff at CISS truly care about the people they serve, and he is deeply appreciative of the support he and his son received during their journey to stable housing. He was genuinely excited to share his story and give back to the organization that helped change their lives.

David’s story is a reminder that a little kindness, a shared laugh, and a helping hand can mean so much. We are grateful he chose to share his journey with us and proud to celebrate this next chapter for him and his son! 💚

Today's the day! Hear why one of our golfers chose to tee up in our 12th annual FORE! Homeless Veterans golf outing bene...
08/28/2026

Today's the day! Hear why one of our golfers chose to tee up in our 12th annual FORE! Homeless Veterans golf outing benefiting homeless veterans in Des Moines, IA!⛳💚

Iowa Total Care  is supporting homeless veterans through a GOLD sponsorship this year at our FORE! Homeless Veterans Gol...
08/27/2026

Iowa Total Care is supporting homeless veterans through a GOLD sponsorship this year at our FORE! Homeless Veterans Golf Outing. Here at CISS, we are especially grateful for their continued support!💚⛳

Holmes Murphy is supporting homeless veterans through a GOLD sponsorship this year at our FORE! Homeless Veterans Golf O...
08/20/2026

Holmes Murphy is supporting homeless veterans through a GOLD sponsorship this year at our FORE! Homeless Veterans Golf Outing. Here at CISS, we are especially grateful for their continued support!💚⛳

 is supporting homeless veterans through a GOLD sponsorship this year at our FORE! Homeless Veterans Golf Outing. Here a...
08/18/2026

is supporting homeless veterans through a GOLD sponsorship this year at our FORE! Homeless Veterans Golf Outing. Here at CISS, we are especially grateful for their continued support!💚⛳

While most meals at CISS are served using our regular dishware, donations of disposable plates, bowls, cups, utensils, a...
08/11/2026

While most meals at CISS are served using our regular dishware, donations of disposable plates, bowls, cups, utensils, and napkins are always appreciated and help support meal service when needed.

Address

1420 Mulberry Street
Des Moines, IA
50309

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