Community Shelter and Transitional Services

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people can stay at Shelter House?
Shelter House has the capacity for up to 70 people per night.

What causes homelessness in Iowa?
The main causes of homelessness in our area can be traced to a lack of affordable housing, low paying jobs, and domestic violence. Very few people choose to be homeless. The vast majority become homeless due to one or more financial crises.

Who may stay at Shelter House?
Almost anyone may stay at the shelter. However, Shelter House does not allow those who are intoxicated or registered sex offenders. Shelter House is a general-use shelter, which means that we serve men, women, and children under one roof.

2007 Facts on Homeless in Iowa:*

56% of homeless families experienced homelessness for the first time in 2007.
12% of homeless adults served in the Armed Forces.
10,206 Iowans under the age of 18 needed assistance and were provided services in 2007.
57% of homeless people in families are children. That is 4 out of 10 homeless Iowans.
67% of adults in families have completed high school or obtained a GED.
3% of homeless individuals report a long term disability.
1/3 of homeless families are the "working poor".
Homeless service providers helped 9,822 homeless individuals in 2007.
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*Iowa Council on Homelessness Facts