Homeless Support Services in Polk County
PHC’s team connects individuals and families with housing resources, benefits, and care. Start at our Centralized Intake—walk-in only, Monday–Friday.
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM (arrive early)
- Location: 1200 University Ave, Suite 110A (West Entrance), Des Moines
If you are experiencing homelessness today
- Walk in to Centralized Intake between 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM (Mon–Fri). Arrive as early as possible; wait times can be up to 90 minutes.
- Bring what you have. ID or documents help, but come even if you don’t have them.
- Accessibility or work hours conflict? Call (515) 248-1850. There’s no voicemail—please keep calling until staff answer.
Centralized Intake (CI)
Your entry point for homeless services in Polk County. CI links you to the right programs at the right time—housing resources, benefits, health care, and more.
Where & When
PHC University
1200 University Ave, Suite 110A (West Entrance)
Des Moines, IA 50314
Hours: Mon–Fri, 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM (walk-ins only)
What to Expect
- Check in and complete a brief intake form.
- If eligible, wait in the lobby to meet with a case manager.
- Assessment & referrals to programs and services (resources are limited; same-day help is not guaranteed).
- Arrive early; if you arrive by 1 PM, you may not be seen that day.
Questions about access or accommodations? Call (515) 248-1850.
Veterans Services (SSVF)
Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) helps low-income veteran households find and keep stable housing. We provide outreach, case management, health care navigation, and help obtaining VA and other public benefits.
Contact & Location
PHC University
1200 University Ave, Suite 110A (West Entrance)
Des Moines, IA 50314
Phone: (515) 248-1851
Who Qualifies
- Veteran or veteran in the household
- Experiencing homelessness or at imminent risk
- Meets income guidelines
- Any discharge status except dishonorable
- Lives in Dallas, Jasper, Marshall, Polk, Story, or Warren County
If you’re unsure about eligibility, call us—we’ll help you figure it out.
Donations
Your gift directly supports people experiencing homelessness in our community. PHC is a 501(c)(3); donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.
Mail a Gift
PHC Fund Development
1200 University Ave, Suite 200
Des Moines, IA 50314
Donate Items
New or gently used items are welcome. Most-needed items include socks, underwear, shampoo, soap, period products, toothbrushes/toothpaste. Seasonal needs include coats, gloves, hats; in summer, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, bottled water.
Drop-off: Mon–Fri, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
PHC University, Suite 110A (West Entrance)
FAQs
Do I need an appointment for Centralized Intake?
No. CI is first-come, first-served during walk-in hours (Mon–Fri, 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM). Arrive early; wait times can be up to 90 minutes.
What should I bring?
Bring any ID or documents you have. If you don’t have documents, still come—we’ll work with you.
Can I call if I can’t make walk-in hours?
Yes. Call (515) 248-1850. There is no voicemail; please keep calling until staff answer.
How do I know if I qualify for Veterans services (SSVF)?
If there’s a veteran in your household, you’re homeless or at risk, and you live in one of our covered counties, you may qualify. Call (515) 248-1851.