Housing

Able Up Iowa is a statewide organization provides low-interest loans to Iowans with disabilities so you can purchase what you need to live independently. Able Up Iowa also offers financial coaching to help reach Iowans with disabilities' financial goals.

Short-stay rehab, skilled nursing & long-term care.

It offers community, nutrition, and case management services, as well as access to community resources. The agency contracts with local providers to help provide services to individuals living in a community setting, allowing them to remain in the least restrictive environment.

Help with applying for waiver services including for homecare. 

• Any Adult 60 years of Age or Older
• Any Adult 18 Years of Age or Older with a Disability
• Any Family Caregiver

AMP is for youth ages 13-23 who are currently in foster care, have been adopted from foster care, or are involved in any other type of out-of-home placement. We are Iowa’s Foster Care Youth Council and meet as local Councils throughout the state.

AMP provides youth with a safe and fun place to meet with their peers to learn leadership skills, life skills, resources, and connections that will help them as they step into adulthood.  AMP also impacts direct change to Iowa’s child welfare system through advocacy and education. Check out our Legislative Program for more information.

Blueprint to Homeownership is an independent program of Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity whose doors are open to all, regardless of household income or need.

Our homebuying advisors are here for you. They are able to provide unbiased, trustworthy, and expert insights to help you plan your path to homeownership. Blueprint to Homeownership services are completely free for Central Iowa residents. All information you provide is 100% confidential and will never be sold.

When you meet with a Blueprint to Homeownership advisor, you’ll review where you are today – your finances, income, living situation, family makeup, and more – and discuss your homeownership goals. Your advisor will provide information and guidance for your next steps toward purchasing a home. Whether homeownership is weeks away or years down the road, our team can help you move forward.

• Provides ongoing rental assistance for the public and section housing to individuals and families that qualify.
• Central Iowa Regional Housing Authority aims to promote affordable, decent, safe, and sanitary housing by assisting qualified families in a non-discriminatory manner, encouraging self-sufficiency and individual responsibility, while maintaining the public trust.
• Numerous programs including Section 8, Famly Self Sufficiency, Owned Housing Program, Housing Choice Voucher.

Services: Food, Health, Housing, & Support

• Homeless Street Outreach Contact
  • Jill Rogers
  • Email: jrogers@centraliowashelter.org
  • Phone: 515-805-7883
• Shelter, meals, and support services are provided at no cost to adults experiencing homelessness, while also facilitating their move towards self-sufficiency.  The Shelter has a capacity of 150 people. 
• Coordinated Entry
• Rolling Hills Coalition: 15 counties in Southeast Iowa, including Jasper County.
• Empowerment Command Centers are located in Grinnell and Ottumwa.

AFTER HOURS CONTACT: Your Life Iowa: to connect and share information with agencies across the state that have signed a confidentiality agreement. 

Four Categories of the Homeless Definition

Within the homeless definition, there are four categories of homelessness:

1. Literally Homeless
2. Imminent Risk of Homelessness
3. Homeless Under Other Federal Statutes
4. Fleeing/Attempting to Flee Domestic Violence

Restoring Hope. Building Futures. Changing Lives.

People come to CFI when they need hope. They trust CFI to help them pick up the pieces, to listen, to offer ideas, and to work together with them to build solutions. CFI is there to give them hope for a better tomorrow.

Domestic Violence 

Helping victims of domestic violence rebuild their lives.

Behavioral Health

Trauma-informed therapy and substance use solutions.

Career Planning & Work Readiness

Career development and support for at-risk youth and adults.

Childcare & Tutoring

Affordable childcare with fun, age-appropriate programming

Payee Services

Assisting individuals with Social Security benefit management.

Human Services

Support, classes, adoption services, and SafeCare.

Juvenile Justice Supported Services

Services and support for teens referred by Polk County Juvenile Court.

We are volunteers creating beds and providing bedding for children ages 3-17 who have no bed in the Chariton and Knoxville, Iowa area.   

PCM School children that need beds

Provide comprehensive sexual assault services, violent crime services, prevention programming, and emergency housing for victims of domestic abuse, sexual violence, and violent crimes for the counties of Appanoose, Davis, Jasper, Jefferson, Keokuk, Lucas, Mahaska, Marion, Monroe, Poweshiek, Wapello, & Wayne.

• 844-673-5499 (Emergency Housing Crisis line) 
• 800-270-1620 (Sexual Assault Crisis Line)
   

Independent Living Excellence

At Edencrest, Independent Living means exactly what you might expect: independence.
With no pressure to stay on top of household projects, and more time to pursue your interests, the lifestyle we offer allows you to pick up the pace while aging in place. If quieter, less busy days are more your style, we’ve got that covered, too. It’s worry-free living at every turn, with all the activities and amenities you would expect from a vibrant senior living community.

Personalized Assisted Living

Assisted Living doesn’t mean you’ve stopped enjoying life. It just means a little extra assistance can make a world of difference in ensuring you can continue to seize the day. Whatever your needs – like help getting ready to start the day – we’ve got you covered. Surrounded by a compassionate, caring team, you’ll be free to take part in whatever activities or hobbies you please.

Trusted Memory Care

There are words that naturally cause us to feel a level of trepidation and uncertainty. Dementia is one of those words. At Edencrest, we don’t try to window dress it. The dementia journey can be challenging. With the right care, however, that journey doesn’t have to be as uncertain. That's why we navigate the journey of memory care with personalized and dignified solutions.
We understand that dementia isn’t a disease that impacts one person or even a couple of people. It is unquestionably a journey and it’s one on which we’re proud to be an accompanying partner.
We do more than just walk with you, however. We are experts in our field, committed to the latest research, the latest scientific progress and those time-tested approaches to the care you or your loved one deserves. Discover peace of mind for your loved one with unmatched memory care excellence at Edencrest.

Take the next step with us. 

Find free or reduced-cost resources like food, housing, financial assistance, health care, and more.
Help starts here.

The FirstHome Program connects first-time homebuyers with affordable mortgages and local lenders.

Benefits to FirstHome

• Interest Rates
  Interest rates are typically lower than the market rate and have fewer fees. A credit score does not affect the interest rate.
• Down Payment
  The loan type determines the amount of down payment. Loans may require only a 3% down payment and may include reduced mortgage insurance coverage for borrowers with the lender’s qualifying income of less than 80% of the Area Median Income. Down payment and closing cost assistance programs are available to help cover upfront expenses.
• Free Iowa Title Guaranty Owner's Certificate
  Borrowers may request a free Iowa Title Guaranty Owner’s Certificate at closing. With this certificate, if a title issue arises, Iowa Title Guaranty will be there to step in and assume attorneys’ fees, costs, and expenses associated with defending the title to your home. While title defects are not common in Iowa, they do occur. At no cost to you, an Iowa Title Guaranty Certificate is more than worth it.

Eligibility

• Household Income Limit
  Varies by county and household size and ranges from $96,500 to $134,550.
• Home Purchase Limit
  $510,000—may be up to $624,000 in targeted areas—use the Eligibility Quick Check below to determine if the home is located in one of the targeted areas.
• Real Estate History
  Must be a first-time homebuyer. A first-time homebuyer is defined as not owning your primary residence in the last three years.
  OR
  Be a military member with discharge of other than dishonorable and not previously used a mortgage revenue bond program such as FirstHome to finance a home purchase.
  OR
  Purchase a home in a Targeted Area (please use the Eligibility Quick Check tool to determine if you’re purchasing in a Targeted Area).
• Occupancy
  The home must be occupied by the buyer as a primary residence within 60 days of closing.
• Credit Score
  All loans subject to a minimum 640 credit score. For cases where borrower has no credit score, non-traditional credit documentation allowed in accordance with agency guidelines for loan type.
• Debt-to-Income Ratio
  The maximum debt-to-income ratio is 50%.

The Center provides essential services, including job training, veterans resources, case management, health and wellness support, and pathways to permanent housing.

Grinnell Camper Connect gatherings every Tuesday & Thursday from 10 am to 1 pm with food served at the events.

Help for Renters, Private Landlords, & Property Managers

Facing a rental housing problem? HOME, Inc. is here for you! We help renters and landlords throughout Iowa understand their housing rights and responsibilities by providing counseling and education. 

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Please keep in mind, we do not offer legal advice.

Places that might be able to help.  Contact information in the resource guide. 

• Furnace: Check with IMPACT or your utility company.  Also MICA weatherization program

• Weatherization can help you, and your family live in a more comfortable home and lower your energy bills. This can include replacing inefficient or dangerous appliances, insulating your home, installing low-flow shower heads and faucets, insulating pipes, installing efficient lightbulbs, and more. Weatherization is not a home repair program (we can’t replace windows, roofs, or do construction work). But we can significantly increase your energy efficiency, making you safe and comfortable.

• Utilities: see section in resource guide. 
• Home repairs: Habitat for Humanity 9/2025 Not taking applications.  See MICA Weatherization
• Grants: 
  • Newton: Newton Housing Development
• Loans: check your mortgage company or USDA
• Iowa Economic Development & Finance Authority: Central Iowa Housing Trust Fund (for businesses)
• Seniors: Aging Resources
• Veterans: VA

HUD supports many organizations that provide housing assistance and/or supportive services to people.

• Homelessness
• Affordable places to live
• Home ownership
• Report housing discrimination
• Rent relief and eviction resources
• Housing Quality and Improved Living Conditions

Information on speaking to a HUD-approved Housing Counselor 

Information on having a HUD property inspected

IMPACT Community Action Partnership reduces the barriers and burdens that families in poverty experience by increasing access to essential needs. Assistance may be available for food and personal hygiene, utilities (heat, water, and cooling), housing (rent, deposit, and mortgage), and emergency needs. All services are available in the office, over the phone, and by a scheduled home visit. Several programs can also be accessed via online application, email, or postal mail. See our website or contact our team by phone or email to learn more. May offer assistance with emergency applications, such as those related to flood or weather damage events. 

Housing: 

• Utilities: LIHEAP (Low Income energy assistance program) help. Heat, water, and cooling. 
• Housing: Rent, deposit, and mortgage. 
• HOME ARP funds - allow eligible individuals with housing start-up costs (application fees, deposit, rent, and utility arrears).  This program is for those who have been recently released from incarceration in the last year.
• HOME CHAMP program -  a housing assistance initiative in Iowa, a collaboration between IMPACT Community Action Partnership and Wellpoint. It provides case management and direct financial assistance for housing costs to eligible Wellpoint members in Iowa. 
• Air Conditioner/Fan Program: limited supplies

Food Cards: IMPACT Resource Centers located in counties where we do not have a food pantry (Jasper, Marion, and Warren) offer limited access to food cards for local grocery stores. Please call 515-518-4770 to check on the availability of the cards.

RAYS Scholarship: for eligible low-income students to participate in sports, band, dance, etc.

Barnes City Housing (Financial Service Group, Inc.)

• 319-664-3002

Brooklyn Housing, Inc. (Karen McNaul)

• 641-623-5026

Deep River Housing (Financial Service Group, Inc.)

• 319-668-1270

Malcom Manor (Karen McNaul)

• 641-623-5026

Montezuma, Sunny View Square (Grinnell Area Housing)

• 641-236-6679

Searsboro Manor Apartments (Financial Services Group, Inc.)

• 319-668-1270

Victor Senior Housing (National Management)

• 515-223-0300

Explore everything you need for homeownership assistance, rental programs, and community support under one roof.

Consumers can lower their energy costs with programs geared toward home energy efficiency upgrades, home electrification, clean energy installation, and electric transportation.

At the Iowa Finance Authority, we turn small actions into big reactions. From mortgages and rental programs to beginning farmers -- we impact all Iowans.

See website for current resources, as of 9/19/2025 (programs are subject to change based on funding). 

• Business (click tab on website) 
• Beginning Farmers Programs
• Homelessness Programs
• Homeownership Programs
• Iowa Housing Search
• Iowa Title Guaranty Programs
• Renter and Rental Programs
• Water Quality Programs

Houseiowa.org is a database of housing resources throughout the state of Iowa intended for Iowans seeking to maintain or acquire safe and affordable housing.

Sponsored by Habitat for Humanity

Free legal assistance in civil legal issues such as housing, rental issues, domestic violence, public benefit program denials, utility shut-offs, tax problems & consumer issues, to low-income persons.

Rental issues: How Do I Get My Landlord to Make Repairs? https://www.iowalegalaid.org/resource/how-do-i-get-my-landlord-to-make-repairs

Landlord issues, rental issues, mold, etc, housing issues. 

Iowa Mortgage Help (IMH) provides a state-wide referral hotline, foreclosure intervention and negotiation and mediation services with loan servicers and lenders. Additionally, IMH is able to provide free legal services to Iowans who participate in our process, through a partnership with Iowa Legal Aid. Hotline operators at Iowa Mortgage Help will gather basic data and will refer callers’ cases to one of the local counseling agencies that are part of IMH. The certified counselors will then gather more in-depth financial information and will determine the appropriate level of counseling.

Iowa Mortgage Help is supported by Iowa Legal Aid, Iowa Attorney General’s Office, and Iowa Finance Authority.

• Loan of equipment such as walkers, bath & toileting aids, adapted bikes, low-tech switches & toys, bedside tables, adapted swim aids, swings, & other types of positioning aids with disabilities can have the opportunity to experience an improved quality of life.
• Ramps assistance may be available.

Note: Not a DME provider. 

Lead poisoning happens in children when they have lead in their bodies. Lead is highly toxic and can cause developmental delays, learning difficulties, headaches, and more. Even small amounts of lead can harm a child. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states there is no safe level of lead in a child’s system.

Poisoning Prevention Resources

Lead-Safe Renovation

Renovation can disturb paint. This includes sanding, cutting, and demolition. Renovation in pre-1978 buildings can create lead dust and chips. These can hurt adults and children.

In 2008, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued rules for renovation. They apply to renovation in pre-1978 housing (target housing). They also apply to pre-1978 child-occupied facilities (daycare centers, kindergartens).

Beginning April 22, 2010, renovators across the nation must be certified. They must also follow lead-safe work practices. The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL) carries out these rules in Iowa. Certified people will be called “lead-safe renovators.”

The site has lead contractors, workers, renovators, technicians, inspectors, assessors, and professional firms.

Handout

If you are a renter, see your lease agreement, and check if your location offers rental inspections (call your City Hall). 

On With Life began as the dream of eight families - a dedicated, passionate group of survivors and their families, faced with the challenge of rebuilding lives shattered by brain injury. Their dedication resulted in a post-acute program focused on the unique and complex needs of brain injury survivors. Since then, On With Life has expanded from a post-acute inpatient program in a single location to seven programs across multiple campuses, serving thousands of individuals a year.                                                                                

• Conditions
  • Brain Injury
  • Stroke
  • Concussion
  • Parkinson’s
  • Complex Neurological
  • Spinal Cord Injury
•   Programs + Services                                                                             
  • Post-Acute Inpatient Neuro Rehabilitation
  • Outpatient Neuro Rehabilitation
  • Long-Term Skilled Care
  • Residential Neuro Rehabilitation
  • Neuropsychological Services
  • Day Programming and Respite Services
  • Telehealth
  • Independent Living
  • Family Housing

Discover the perfect blend of history and modern living at Plant 1 Lofts, a beautifully restored apartment community in the historic Maytag Building in Newton, Iowa. This iconic landmark has been thoughtfully transformed into a vibrant residential space, offering large loft-style apartments in Newton, IA with expansive windows, exposed brick, and cozy one- and two-bedroom layouts. Retaining its historic charm while featuring modern finishes, including sleek fixtures and open-concept designs, Plant 1 Lofts is ideal for professionals, students, families, seniors, and everyone in between. Located near local restaurants and boutique shops, this pet-friendly community provides a unique lifestyle where history meets contemporary comfort.

When you choose one of our Newton apartments for rent at Plant 1 Lofts, youre not just selecting a place to live youre choosing a place to unwind and truly call home. Whether you opt for a one or two-bedroom layout, your experience will be equally delightful. Each of our thoughtfully designed apartments features modern amenities, including in-unit washer and dryer, spacious kitchen pantry, and expansive walk-in closets.

Rebuilding Together volunteers will participate our annual 2024 Rebuilding Days. Volunteers will complete critical home repairs to help more than 100+ low-income families throughout Greater Des Moines.

We utilize over 700 volunteers for these projects. We join together to revitalize our city and help our neighbors stay safe, healthy and dry.

Examples of home repairs that may be provided: repairing or replacing flooring, windows, steps, wheelchair ramps, stabilizing a shower, kitchen cabinet installs, removal and install of back steps, landscaping, and repainting of exterior and many more. These improvements will enable the families to live in a safe and healthy home.

Income-based funding for new home buyers, existing home owners, rental property owners, and other affordable housing projects may qualify.

Poor Living Conditions:  Do they own, rent, live with others?    

• Mold: USDA Loans and Grants, FEMA Flood Damage    

  • How to clean up  Webstie: https://www.cdc.gov/mold-health/about/clean-up.html

• Bugs/Infestation: vectors, Lice, fleas, bed bugs, bugs, mice, rats, bats, and other animals.   See CDC reference, your lease agreement and legal aid

  • .Bed bugs

  Rentals review lease agreement, if you own a home, check with homeowner insurance. 

• Landlord issues- Iowa Legal Aid   

• Well, septic, zoning issue, or building permit.  Jasper Co. Community Development or city.  

Inspection for Rentals? 

• Rental inspections in Baxter and Newton. Colfax will be starting again. 4/2025

• If in Newton and need inspections, https://www.newtongov.org/122/Building-Division 

• NOTE: The Jasper County Health Department does not have any authority over rental or housing issues. 

Iowa HHS’ Rent Reimbursement is a statewide program that gives partial rent refunds to low-income Iowans who are ages 65 and older or are disabled adults.

If you’re a low-income Iowan aged 65 or older or a low-income disabled adult you may be eligible for a partial reimbursement of your rent.

When you apply online, you will be given information about how to include the proof we need to review your claim. You can submit any required proof at the same time you apply online.  Generally, you may need to provide proof of:

• Identity
• Disability
• Income
• Rent paid

The agency’s direct and guaranteed rural credit programs help families find affordable housing, and assist. businesses, and allow communities to build or improve facilities. It is in the Iowa Rural Development State Office in Des Moines, Iowa.

Housing repair loan and grant programs. https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants.

Long-term care and rehabilitation center.  Foot care clinics by appointment.

YSS – Youth & Shelter Services – Youth Recovery House, located in Ames, Iowa, is a non-profit alcohol and drug rehab that offers treatment for a variety of substance abuse addictions, including alcoholism, co-occurring mental health disorders, and opiate addiction. They offer residential care, providing long-term support for addiction recovery. Additional levels of care offered include relapse prevention, recovery housing, and 12-step therapy.

Specialty rehab programs at YSS – Youth & Shelter Services – Youth Recovery House include gender-specific addiction treatment addressing unique challenges faced by men and age-appropriate treatment for teens addressing adolescent-specific issues.

Patients at YSS – Youth & Shelter Services – Youth Recovery House will find the residential setting creates an immersive environment promoting full engagement in recovery away from daily triggers. For recreation, patients can unwind in the rec room after a lengthy day of therapy, use the meditation room to promote mindfulness during recovery, or continue education during recovery with the day school.

YSS – Youth & Shelter Services – Youth Recovery House has received accreditations from CARF.