| Street Outreach |
Street Outreach
The streets of Des Moines are filled with homeless youth who are often overlooked by the rest of the community. Many of these youth don't have any support except for the staff and volunteers of Iowa Homeless Youth Centers' Street Outreach Program. The staff and volunteers serve as positive role models for the struggling youth and offer them basic necessities including showers, laundry, food, phone, a place to receive mail, as well as case management, and other life assistance.
Volunteers assist IHYC counselors with preparation of emergency food kits, personal care packets, and clothing and blankets. They then bring the essentials to where it is needed most: the streets of Des Moines. The Outreach van travels the city seven days a week, bringing supplies, offering crisis counseling, and lending a helping hand to the homeless and chronic runaway youth.
In addition to its daily outings, the Street Outreach Program provides the homeless youth a place to come together in a safe environment for a nutritious meal once a week. The weekly drop-in center, located in downtown Des Moines. The youth get to form friendships and support with staff, volunteers, and other homeless and obtain information for needed services.
Homeless and Runaway Street Outreach Center
701 Grand Ave.
Des Moines, IA 50309
Office: 515-883-2379
Emergency: 515-249-1443
