Primary Health Care logo

Primary Health Care

Homeless Support Services in Polk County

If you are experiencing homelessness, PHC can help you connect with housing resources, benefits, and health care. Individuals and families can start with our walk-in Centralized Intake service in Des Moines.

Start with Centralized Intake

No appointment needed. Arrive early. Same-day help is not guaranteed.

Walk-in hours
Monday–Friday
8:00 AM–3:30 PM
Where to go
1200 University Ave, Suite 110A
Des Moines, IA 50314
Use the west entrance.
Get directions Call 515-248-1850

What to expect at Centralized Intake

Centralized Intake is a starting point for homeless services in Polk County. Our team will talk with you about your needs and connect you with programs and services you may qualify for.


  1. Check in

    Complete a short intake form. Bring any ID or documents you have. If you do not have them, you can still come in.


  2. Talk with our team

    If you qualify, you will meet with a case manager to discuss your situation and the support you need.


  3. Learn about next steps

    Our team can connect you with housing resources, benefits, health care, and other services.

Plan for a wait. Wait times can be up to 90 minutes. Arrive early. Resources are limited, and same-day help is not guaranteed.

Cannot come during walk-in hours or need help visiting? Call 515-248-1850. This number does not have voicemail. If no one answers, please try again.

Housing support for veterans and their families

PHC's Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program helps veteran households with limited income find and keep stable housing. Our team provides case management, help connecting with health care, and help getting VA and other public benefits.

Who may qualify?

  • You are a veteran or have a veteran in your household.
  • You are experiencing homelessness or may soon lose your housing.
  • Your household meets the program's income guidelines.
  • The veteran's discharge status is not dishonorable.
  • You live in Dallas, Jasper, Marshall, Polk, Story, or Warren County.

Not sure if you qualify? Call our team to discuss your situation.

Contact Veterans Services

Call 515-248-1851 to learn about the program and next steps.

PHC University
1200 University Ave, Suite 110A
Des Moines, IA 50314
Use the west entrance.

Call Veterans Services Get directions

Support Homeless Support Services

Your donations help PHC support people experiencing homelessness. You can give essential items or make a financial gift.

Cold-weather items

Current needs include:

  • Winter coats in adult sizes, especially men's
  • Thermal underwear or long johns
  • Gloves and warm hats

Everyday essentials

  • Socks and underwear
  • Shampoo and soap
  • Toothbrushes and toothpaste
  • Period products

Make a financial gift

Visit PHC's donation page to give online and learn about other ways to give. You can designate your gift to Homeless Support Services.

Make a donation

Drop off donated items

Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM
PHC University
1200 University Ave, Suite 110A
Des Moines, IA 50314
Use the west entrance.

Mail a financial gift

PHC Fund Development
1200 University Ave, Suite 200
Des Moines, IA 50314

New or gently used items are welcome.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need an appointment for Centralized Intake?

No. Walk in Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–3:30 PM. People are seen in the order they arrive. Come early.

What should I bring?

Bring any ID or documents you have. If you do not have documents, you can still come in.

Will I get help the same day?

Same-day help is not guaranteed. Resources are limited, and wait times can be up to 90 minutes. Arrive early.

What if I cannot come during walk-in hours?

Call 515-248-1850 to discuss your needs. There is no voicemail. If no one answers, please try again.

How do I find out if I qualify for Veterans Services?

Call 515-248-1851. Our team can review your situation and explain the program requirements.

Translate »