Low-Income Assistance Programs

The Community Services Division works with low-income residents within Des Moines corporate city limits to provide crisis assistance and provide tools to help low-income residents gain personal and economic self-sufficiency. Unless otherwise specified, low-income programs are available to households with annual gross incomes at or below 150% of federal poverty guidelines.

Assessment and Resolution (A & R)

Assessment and Resolution (A & R) can help low-income households experiencing credit problems with MidAmerican Energy. A & R workers help establish bill payment plans and negotiate with MidAmerican. Limited financial assistance is available to help reestablish service or prevent disconnection.

Cooling Program

Fans are available during extremely hot weather. Window air conditioners or air conditioner repair up to $350 may be available to a household if required by a medical condition. June - August.

Food Pantry

A Food Pantry is operated at the Forest Avenue Site Office for households in need of food on the west side of Des Moines. The Des Moines Area Religious Council sponsors a number of food pantries in Des Moines. List of food pantries.

Furnace Repairs and Replacement

Furnace Repairs and Replacement are provided by the Community Services Division through a number of funding types. Private contractors perform work. Priority is given to the elderly and families with very young children. Only homeowners and buyers are eligible for this service. Available year round.

The Holiday Food Project

The Holiday Food Project is made possible through donations of food, money, and labor provided by Des Moines schools, businesses, and service organizations. Holiday food boxes are distributed to nearly 1,000 families each year. Program is provided in December.

Information, Referral, and Outreach

Information, Referral, and Outreach is provided at each Community Services office. If you or someone you know is having a problem and you don't know where to go, we may be able to help find an answer for you or direct you to someone who can help. Available year round.

Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

LIHEAP provides a one time payment towards heating costs each winter. Applications are accepted from November 1 through April 15 each year. Approximately 6,800 households receive assistance each year.

MTA Opportunity thru Transit (OTT)

MTA Opportunity thru Transit (OTT) bus passes and tokens are sold at Community Services Site offices at reduced rates for eligible households. Contact a Community Services Site office near you to see if you qualify. Available year round.

Personal Pantries

A personal pantry is maintained at Forest Avenue and Logan Community Services site offices. Personal items such as soap, toothpaste, shampoo, diapers, and laundry detergent are available to households in need. Available year round.

Weatherization Applications

Weatherization Applications are taken at the Community Services Site Offices for residents of Des Moines. Weatherization can help with attic and sidewall insulation, furnace repair or replacement and general energy efficiency measures. Households eligible for LIHEAP are automatically put on a waiting list for weatherization. Approximately 150 homes are weatherized annually.


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