While the Grinnell Housing Authority only directly handles Housing Choice Vouchers, we understand those facing housing insecurity are likely to face a wide array of issues. Here you can find listed the major local sources for assistance on some of the most common confounding issues with housing insecurity.
Food:
Mid-Iowa Community Action (MICA)
The Poweshiek County Family Development Office houses a walk-in food pantry and on-site staff/volunteers to assist in resource navigation.
611 4th Ave, Grinnell, IA
641-236-3657
Food Recovery Network
Partnered with Grinnell since 2013, the Iowa Food Recovery Network provides ready-made meals to individuals in need 3 times a week once registered. Call Dave below to register:
641-990-1610
Iowa Kitchen
Healthy meals every Saturday prepared by Kamal Hammouda and Laura Fendt at Relish. Meals must be reserved in advance over call to pick up no later than noon Friday.
834 Park St, Grinnell, IA
641-236-3657
Medical & Mental Healthcare:
Crisis Stabilization Community-Based Services (CSCBS)
Provides short-term services designed to stabilize an individual experiencing a mental health crisis.
1-855-581-8111
Community Care Clinic
Provides free or low-cost primary care services for uninsured and underinsured individuals, open the first and third Thursday of each month from 2PM-4PM.
306 4th Ave Grinnell, IA
641-236-2385
Iowa Harm Reduction Coalition
Offers a plethora of services to help those struggling with substance abuse and/or addiction through harm reduction. Services include Naloxone access, risk reduction kits, a 24-hour hotline, support groups, remote courtesy calls/safety checks, and more.
Naxolone Kits:
319-214-054
Des Moines/Central Iowa Access:
515-957-1252
1221 Center St. Sute 03, Des Moines, IA
1216 2nd Ave SE, Cedar Rapids, IA
Central Iowa Community Services (CICS)
CICS is a nonprofit providing support services for people with brain health issues, developmental, and intellectual disabilities or compromises. CICS may help in navigating resources, acquiring optimal healthcare, and crisis prevention. Find more information about what CICS can do for you here.
205 15th St, Boone, IA
515-513-6870
Childcare
Head Start
A MICA pre-Kindergarten developmental program for qualifying families that provides free/affordable childcare for children ages 3-4. Call or meet with MICA staff to discuss eligibility for Head Start here.
611 4th Ave, Grinnell, IA
641-236-3657
Financial Assistance
Campbell Fund
A town-managed trust to help Grinnellians with a range of financial issues ranging from utility bills (excluding deposits & late fees), medical and dental bills, and transportation via People Rides. You can find more information about the Campbell Fund and how to apply here.
641-236-2600
Poweshiek County General Assistance
Similarly to the Campbell Fund, the County General Assistance Fund may help locals afford essentials of many sorts. The main difference being the County General Fund typically provides less coverage total and has a less formal/more fluid application process. Find eligibility information and the application for funding here. In-person appointments are recommended to complete the application.
641-623-5443
Emergency Services
Central Iowa Shelter & Services (CISS)
CISS works throughout central Iowa to ensure Iowans suffering from housing insecurity have access to housing, food, healthcare, and job training/income. Alongside a slew of other services, CISS hosts an emergency shelter of 150 beds and a 90-day plan for if the relocation is necessary. They additionally provide transportation to the shelter if it is needed. Explore what CISS can do for you here.
1420 Mulberry St, Des Moines, IA
515-284-5719