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Iowa

Pregnancy, birth and the first year in Iowa, in 14 topics: from who runs maternal and child health to what happens at your newborn's screening.

Housing Assistance

In Iowa, several housing assistance programs and resources are available to support pregnant women and nursing mothers:

State and Local Housing Programs

  1. Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Rent Subsidy Program: Administered by the Iowa Finance Authority, this program provides monthly rent assistance to eligible individuals participating in Medicaid waiver programs, including pregnant women. It helps approximately 330 Iowans each month to afford their rent.
  1. Public Housing and Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8): The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers rental assistance through local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) in Iowa. These programs assist low-income families, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities in securing affordable housing.
  1. Iowa Department of Health & Human Services (DHHS): The Iowa DHHS offers state assistance, resources, and support to pregnant and expecting mothers, including housing assistance programs.

Emergency Shelters and Transitional Housing

  1. Ruth Harbor Ministries: Located in Des Moines, Ruth Harbor Ministries provides housing and support for pregnant women before and after childbirth. Their services include a safe living environment, counseling, and assistance with parenting or adoption planning.
  1. Martha's House of Hope: Serving the Ames area, Martha's House of Hope offers a family-style residential program for pregnant women. The program focuses on encouraging women to become self-sufficient and provides a loving home environment.
  1. Cherish House (Milford, IA): Offers safe housing and supportive services for expecting mothers and their children, including counseling, transportation assistance, and family support programs.

Nonprofit and Community-Based Assistance

  1. Community Action Agencies in Iowa

These agencies provide a range of services, including housing assistance, to low-income individuals and families. Services vary by location and may include rental assistance, emergency shelter, and supportive housing programs.

  1. Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Dubuque

Offers housing assistance, counseling, and support services to individuals and families in need, including pregnant women and mothers.

Other Resources
2-1-1 Iowa: A free, confidential helpline operated 24/7, connecting individuals to local services, including housing assistance, shelters, and transitional programs for pregnant women and families. Call 2-1-1 or visit 211 Iowa for more information.

Iowa Family Assistance Resources: Provides information on support and resources for expecting and new mothers, parents, and their children to ensure healthy futures for Iowa families.

Family Development and Self Sufficiency (FaDSS) Program: This program provides family care and support services, which can include assistance with housing needs for eligible families.

These programs aim to provide safe and supportive housing environments for pregnant women and nursing mothers in Iowa. Eligibility requirements and availability may vary, so it's recommended to contact these organizations directly for the most current information.

Looking for an organization near you in Iowa?

Hospitals, birth centers, doulas, WIC clinics, milk banks and more are listed by county. Enter a ZIP code or city to see yours.