Housing: general see other housing and homeless link as needed.
Disclaimer: This information was provided by agencies in the community. It may not be all-encompassing and some information changes often. For Jasper County offices and contact information, browse our county directory.
Updates: If you have an addition or edit to our Resource Guide, please contact us at jaspercocares@jasperia.org.
Your Life Iowa
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Crisis line and resources.
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Live chat is available.
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Your Life Iowa also has a hotline and treatment search function. Use their facility locator.
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When you don’t know who to turn to about a problem with alcohol, drugs, gambling, suicidal thoughts or mental health, Your Life Iowa is here for you 24/7. We provide free, confidential support and connect you to resources meant to help you get your life back on track.
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Keywords: tobacco, vaping, suicide, homeless, unhoused, assistance
Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Local Office- Newton (IHHS) (DHS)
- Childcare Assistance: Helps pay for childcare while parents or caretakers work, attend school, look for employment, or are unable to care for children due to medical reasons.
- Families First: The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) program to help families stay together and prevent the need for foster care.
- Parent Partners: An innovative social work practice. It is unique because it celebrates individuals who have overcome obstacles through change, recovery, and accountability. Parent Partners are advocates for families. They also hold families accountable through their case plan goals.
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): An entitlement program that provides monthly benefits to assist low-income households in purchasing the food they need to maintain adequate nutritional levels.
- Family Investment Program (FIP) is Iowa's Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) program and provides cash assistance to needy families as they become self-supporting so that children may be cared for in their own homes or in the homes of relatives.
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In Iowa, you can report suspected child abuse by calling the Child Abuse Hotline at (800) 362-2178. This hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also call 911 if you believe a child is in immediate danger.
Search: DHS, IHHS, DHHS, Public Aid, child abuse, hotline
Newton, IA 50208
Habitat for Humanity of Jasper County
A nonprofit organization that helps families build and improve places to call home. We believe affordable housing plays a critical role in strong and stable communities.
Des Moines has a store. Restore the store for appliances, furniture, etc.
Keywords: home repair, ramps, home ownership
Contact Person: Becca Decker
Des Moines, IA 50317
Apartments, Grants
Newton Housing Development Corporation (Newton Apartment List, Housing Grants or Funds)
- Purpose: Property owners who have an income at or lower than 80% of the median income for Jasper County may apply for an existing housing improvement grant for rehabilitation/revitalization projects for owner-occupied homes.
- Housing Initiatives in Newton: See the website
- Newton Rentals: See the website
- Realtors
- Low-Moderate Income Existing Housing Improvement Grant
- Low-Mod-Income-Dead-or-Dying-Tree-Removal-Assistance
- Downtown Housing Grant
- Welcome Packets to Newton
- Job Board
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The Newton Apartment list is at the bottom of their page in an Excel document
- and more
Newton, IA 50208
Central Iowa Regional Housing Authority (CIRHA)
- Provides ongoing rental assistance for the public and section housing to individuals and families that qualify.
- Central Iowa Regional Housing Authority aims to promote affordable, decent, safe, and sanitary housing by assisting qualified families in a non-discriminatory manner, encouraging self-sufficiency and individual responsibility, while maintaining the public trust.
- Numerous programs including Section 8, Famly Self Sufficiency, Owned Housing Program, Housing Choice Voucher,
- Keywords: housing, rental, landlords, section 8, utility allowance
Grimes, IA 50111
Door of Faith Transitional Living Program for Men
Des Moines, IA 50315
Elevate CCBHC
Take the next step with us.
Newton, IA 50208
Family Crisis Center- Newton Office
Safety & advocacy to victims of intimate partner violence in Jasper County. 24-hour crisis line, one-on-one counseling, support services, court, medical, & housing advocacy.
Keywords: domestic violence, human trafficking, homicide, violent crimes, housing and homelessness, advocacy at health clinics, statewide hotline, family visitation and exchange, abuse, intimate partner, family violence, safety plan,
Newton , IA 50208
Find Help (find assistance)
Find free or reduced-cost resources like food, housing, financial assistance, health care, and more.
Help starts here.
Hope CDA
Our mission at Hope CDA is to offer hope through Jesus Christ and to build lives for men seeking a second chance. Grounded in truth and love, we provide a comprehensive one-year program where men commit to overcoming addiction, gaining life skills, and finding employment. We aim to demonstrate Christ’s love, witness transformative change, and guide men towards long-term success, empowering them to thrive in all aspects of their lives. Additionally, through our efforts in refurbishing and constructing houses in our jobs training program, we are actively improving communities and helping to address the affordable housing crisis.
Our Goals
- To show Christ’s love.
- To see God change lives.
- To see men lead successful lives free from addiction.
- To provide an environment for God to move.
- To enhance employment opportunities through career training.
- To transform neighborhoods by refurbishing houses.
- To provide housing for low-income families.
- To break the fatherless poverty cycle.
- To help men to become leaders.
- To help men learn how to live successfully, financially, relationally and spiritually.
Cedar Rapids, IA 52403
HUD Housing
HUD supports many organizations that provide housing assistance and/or supportive services to people.
- Homelessness
- Affordable places to live
- Home ownership
- Report housing discrimination
- Rent relief and eviction resources
- Housing Quality and Improved Living Conditions
Information on speaking to a HUD-approved Housing Counselor
Information on having a HUD property inspected
Des Moines, IA 50309
Iowa Economic Development and Finance Authority
Explore everything you need for homeownership assistance, rental programs, and community support under one roof.
Keywords: homeless, homeowner, ownership, Iowa housing search, title, renter, state housing trust fund
Iowa Finance Authority - Housing
At the Iowa Finance Authority, we turn small actions into big reactions. From mortgages and rental programs to beginning farmers -- we impact all Iowans.
See website for current resources, as of 9/19/2025 (programs are subject to change based on funding).
- Business (click tab on website)
- Beginning Farmers Programs
- Homelessness Programs
- Homeownership Programs
- Iowa Housing Search
- Iowa Title Guaranty Programs
- Renter and Rental Programs
- Water Quality Programs
Des Moines, IA 50315
Jasper County Veterans Affairs VA
Helps with the following claim forms: compensation, pension, burial, headstone application, education, dependency and indemnity, eligibility verification report, healthcare, insurance, dental, and home loans. Indigent veteran assistance is also available for housing, food, and utilities. Transportation for medical visits in coordination with RSVP/Jasper Co. Rides.
Newton, IA 50208
MICA (Mid-Iowa Community Action) Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program and Maternal Child Health programs
Mid Iowa Community Action (MICA) serves Jasper County.
A change in the Newton location in September 2025.
MICA Services in Jasper County include:
- Maternal and Child Health
- I-smile (Dental screenings in schools)
- WIC clinics in Newton & Colfax
- 1st Five (for providers)
- FaDSS/Family Development
- Childcare Consultant- Poweshiek/Jasper https://hhs.iowa.gov/programs/programs-and-services/child-care/hcci
- Tara Berstler, RN, 641-328-3237
WIC: Pregnant, postpartum, breastfeeding, infant, children up to age 5.
WIC Times and locations:
Location: Newton Capstone BH, Lower Level, 1st Ave
- 1st Monday of every month
9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. - 2nd Tuesday of every month
10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. - 2nd Monday and Wednesday of every month
8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Howard St. Christian Church in Colfax
- 1st Wednesday of every month
8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m
Keywords: pregnant, breastfeeding, breastfed, milk, WIC, postpartum, baby, infant
I-Smile for dental. See website.
Keyword search: pregnant, infant, breastfeeding, breastmilk, new mom, postpartum, food, WIC, WIC coupons, formula, milk
What is Weatherization
Weatherization can help you, and your family live in a more comfortable home and lower your energy bills. This can include replacing inefficient or dangerous appliances, insulating your home, installing low-flow shower heads and faucets, insulating pipes, installing efficient lightbulbs, and more. Weatherization is not a home repair program (we can’t replace windows, roofs, or do construction work). But we can significantly increase your energy efficiency, making you safe and comfortable.
Do I qualify for Weatherization?
You qualify automatically for the Weatherization program if you have received Low-Income Home Energy Assistance. Your application for energy assistance is also your application for Weatherization. Weatherization staff works off of a list of families who need help after they have received energy assistance and contact families directly to ask them if they would like to participate in the program.
Newton, IA 50208
Permits or Inspections
Note:
- If you live in city limits, please check with them first for all permits related to housing or roads.
- If you live outside of city limits, but in Jasper County, see the County website
Jasper County permits
Engineer's Office and Secondary Roads
- driveway permit
- Annual oversize permit, install tile lines in the right of way permit, single trip permit, utility permit, work in the right of way permit
- Report rural road issues
- Also see policies for dust control, noxious weed, driveway, and snow removal
- Road notifications
- Iowa DNR
- Water Quality
- Feeding confinement
- Private Sewage Disposal and Septage
Jasper County Community Development
- Septic
- Tanning
- Tattoo
- Swimming Pools and Spas (Public)
- Food- State to report and look up
Jasper County Sheriff's Office
Jasper County Board of Supervisors, file in Auditor's Office
Other keywords: inspection, community development, environmental, roads, country roads, snow
Red Cross (American Red Cross)
24 hour phone number: 515-243-4054
Volunteer, give blood, take a class, free smoke detectors
Assistance can include funds for emergency travel, burial of a loved one, emergency food and shelter, etc. The Aid Societies determine the financial assistance package that will be offered – a grant or a loan. The Red Cross is the mechanism to expedite access to these financial resources.
Des Moines, IA 50312
Brain Injury, Stroke, Concussion, Spinal Cord Injury, Neuro
On With Life
On With Life began as the dream of eight families - a dedicated, passionate group of survivors and their families, faced with the challenge of rebuilding lives shattered by brain injury. Their dedication resulted in a post-acute program focused on the unique and complex needs of brain injury survivors. Since then, On With Life has expanded from a post-acute inpatient program in a single location to seven programs across multiple campuses, serving thousands of individuals a year.
Ankeny, IA 50023
Children
Ellipsis (formerly Youth Emergency Services & Shelter - YESS)
Our impact ranges from ensuring kids’ basic needs for food, shelter, education, and caring social interaction are met, to facilitating immeasurable, trajectory-changing personal changes — the impact of which ripples across our communities.
Johnston, IA 50131
Disabled
Progress Industries (PI)
Residential and vocational services for children & adults with mental & physical disabilities. Home & community-based services, supported community living, group homes, intermediate care facility for persons with intellectual disability, pre-vocational work services, psychological rehabilitation for people with mental illness, supported employment, & day habilitation program.
P.I. provides community-based programs and supports for adults with intellectual disabilities. Services include 24-hour and hourly Home and Community-Based Services, Intermediate Care Facility for people with Intellectual Disabilities (ICF-ID), Supported Employment, and Day Habilitation.
Newton, IA 50208
Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Survivors of Violent Crimes
Crisis Intervention Services CIS (Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Survivors of Violent Crimes)
Crisis Intervention Services (CIS) provides advocacy and support services for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and violent crimes.
The mission of Crisis Intervention Services is to work to end sexual assault and domestic violence in our communities through support, emergency safe housing, counseling, and prevention through education.
Our vision is to accomplish the greatest amount of good, to as many survivors as possible, through compassion, crisis counseling,
holistic healing services, and advocacy. CONFIDENTIAL!!
- Intimate Partner Violence- physical, mental, sexual
- Temporary Emergency Shelter & Housing assistance
- Sexual Assault
- Violent Crimes Services Everything is confidential.
keywords: abuse, violence, sexual, incest, emotional abuse, isolation, partner,
Oskaloosa, IA 52577
Driver's license/Tax info
Jasper County Treasurer- Drivers License, Id, Taxes
See the website for forms and info.
Newton, IA 50208
First time home ower
First home program - Iowa Economic Development Authority/ Iowa Finance Authority
The FirstHome Program connects first-time homebuyers with affordable mortgages and local lenders.
Benefits to FirstHome
- Interest Rates
Interest rates are typically lower than the market rate and have fewer fees. A credit score does not affect the interest rate. - Down Payment
The loan type determines the amount of down payment. Loans may require only a 3% down payment and may include reduced mortgage insurance coverage for borrowers with the lender’s qualifying income of less than 80% of the Area Median Income. Down payment and closing cost assistance programs are available to help cover upfront expenses. - Free Iowa Title Guaranty Owner's Certificate
Borrowers may request a free Iowa Title Guaranty Owner’s Certificate at closing. With this certificate, if a title issue arises, Iowa Title Guaranty will be there to step in and assume attorneys’ fees, costs, and expenses associated with defending the title to your home. While title defects are not common in Iowa, they do occur. At no cost to you, an Iowa Title Guaranty Certificate is more than worth it.
Eligibility
- Household Income Limit
Varies by county and household size and ranges from $96,500 to $134,550. - Home Purchase Limit
$510,000—may be up to $624,000 in targeted areas—use the Eligibility Quick Check below to determine if the home is located in one of the targeted areas. - Real Estate History
Must be a first-time homebuyer. A first-time homebuyer is defined as not owning your primary residence in the last three years.
OR
Be a military member with discharge of other than dishonorable and not previously used a mortgage revenue bond program such as FirstHome to finance a home purchase.
OR
Purchase a home in a Targeted Area (please use the Eligibility Quick Check tool to determine if you’re purchasing in a Targeted Area). - Occupancy
The home must be occupied by the buyer as a primary residence within 60 days of closing. - Credit Score
All loans subject to a minimum 640 credit score. For cases where borrower has no credit score, non-traditional credit documentation allowed in accordance with agency guidelines for loan type. - Debt-to-Income Ratio
The maximum debt-to-income ratio is 50%.
Des Moines, IA 50315
Furniture
Friends in Hope
They offer free and accept furniture and appliances.
Renewed Hope Furnishing
Our goal is to provide home furnishings to as many people as possible within 15 miles of Grinnell IA. To do that, we will give priority to first time requesters. We may also limit the number of items you can receive. If you are outside of that area, please look for support from an organization closer to you.
Grinnell, IA 50112
Furniture or Household Items
Treasured by God Ministries
- Serving Poweshiek and Jasper Counties.
- Providing furniture and household items to single parents and single individuals.
- We accept donations of gently used furniture and household items.
Gilman, IA 50106
Home Repairs
Iowa Homeowner Assistance - Iowa Finance Authority
Iowa Homeowner Assistance Fund- Home Repair The goal of the Iowa Home Repair Pilot Program is to prevent homeowner displacement by assisting with home repairs to maintain the habitability of the home.
Iowa Finance Authority: Find a program https://www.iowafinance.com/find-a-program/
Des Moines, IA 50315
Rebuilding Together - Greater Des Moines
Rebuilding Together volunteers will participate our annual 2024 Rebuilding Days. Volunteers will complete critical home repairs to help more than 100+ low-income families throughout Greater Des Moines.
We utilize over 700 volunteers for these projects. We join together to revitalize our city and help our neighbors stay safe, healthy and dry.
Examples of home repairs that may be provided: repairing or replacing flooring, windows, steps, wheelchair ramps, stabilizing a shower, kitchen cabinet installs, removal and install of back steps, landscaping, and repainting of exterior and many more. These improvements will enable the families to live in a safe and healthy home.
Des Moines, IA 50314
Home Repairs and Loans
USDA- Rural Development (United States Department of Agriculture)
The agency’s direct and guaranteed rural credit programs help families find affordable housing, and assist. businesses, and allow communities to build or improve facilities. It is in the Iowa Rural Development State Office in Des Moines, Iowa.
Housing repair loan and grant programs. https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants.
Keywords: home repairs
Des Moines, IA 50309
Lead
Lead poisoning prevention program IHHS Iowa
Lead poisoning happens in children when they have lead in their bodies. Lead is highly toxic and can cause developmental delays, learning difficulties, headaches, and more. Even small amounts of lead can harm a child. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states there is no safe level of lead in a child’s system.
https://hhs.iowa.gov/programs/programs-and-services/childhood-lead-poisoning-prevention-program/childhood-lead-poisoning-prevention-resources
Des Moines, IA 50319
Lead resources DIAL Department of Inspections and Appeal Licensure
Lead-Safe Renovation
Renovation can disturb paint. This includes sanding, cutting, and demolition. Renovation in pre-1978 buildings can create lead dust and chips. These can hurt adults and children.
In 2008, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued rules for renovation. They apply to renovation in pre-1978 housing (target housing). They also apply to pre-1978 child-occupied facilities (daycare centers, kindergartens).
Beginning April 22, 2010, renovators across the nation must be certified. They must also follow lead-safe work practices. The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL) carries out these rules in Iowa. Certified people will be called “lead-safe renovators.”
The site has lead contractors, workers, renovators, technicians, inspectors, assessors, and professional firms.
(Keywords: lead, lead paint, lead poisoning, abatement, lead inspector, contractors)
Handout: https://dial.iowa.gov/media/8605/download?inline=
Mold
Mold Clean Up Source: CDC
If you are a renter, see your lease agreement, and check if your location offers rental inspections (call your City Hall).
Permits/Inspections
Jasper County Community Development and Environmental Health
- Environmental Health inspections (pool, septic, tattoo, & tanning), safe water supply & well water testing, septic system (permits, education, & tanker education), rabies education, & radon test kits (for sale).
- Building permits and zoning.
- Radon test kits ($10.00 each)
Newton, IA 50208
Ramps & Equipment
Kid Assist
- Loan of equipment such as walkers, bath & toileting aids, adapted bikes, low-tech switches & toys, bedside tables, adapted swim aids, swings, & other types of positioning aids with disabilities can have the opportunity to experience an improved quality of life.
- Ramps assistance may be available.
Note: Not a DME provider.
Newton, IA 50208
rebates and grants
Iowa Energy & Infrastructure Funding Hub
Consumers can lower their energy costs with programs geared toward home energy efficiency upgrades, home electrification, clean energy installation, and electric transportation.
Keywords: HEAR, rebate, energy
Rent or Deposit Assistance
Rent Reimbursement - HHS Iowa
If you’re a low-income Iowan aged 65 or older or a low-income disabled adult you may be eligible for a partial reimbursement of your rent.
When you apply online, you will be given information about how to include the proof we need to review your claim. You can submit any required proof at the same time you apply online. Generally, you may need to provide proof of:
- Identity
- Disability
- Income
- Rent paid
Repairs if you own the home
Home Repairs
Places that might be able to help. Contact information in the resource guide.
- Furnace: Check with IMPACT or your utility company. Also MICA weatherization program
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Weatherization can help you, and your family live in a more comfortable home and lower your energy bills. This can include replacing inefficient or dangerous appliances, insulating your home, installing low-flow shower heads and faucets, insulating pipes, installing efficient lightbulbs, and more. Weatherization is not a home repair program (we can’t replace windows, roofs, or do construction work). But we can significantly increase your energy efficiency, making you safe and comfortable.
- Utilities: see section in resource guide.
- Home repairs: Habitat for Humanity 9/2025 Not taking applications. See MICA Weatherization
- Grants:
- Newton: Newton Housing Development
- Loans: check your mortgage company or USDA
- Iowa Economic Development & Finance Authority: Central Iowa Housing Trust Fund (for businesses)
- Seniors: Aging Resources
- Veterans: VA
shelter
ACCESS (Assault Care Center Extending Shelter & Support)
Rapid Rehousing in a Housing First initiative is designed to help homeless individuals get into housing as immediately as possible with financial support, help with the application process, support in identifying community resources, and care coordination. The most vulnerable victims, such as youth and families, are targeted for this intensive service.
Services provided include:
- Residential housing
- Financial support
- Help with the application process
- Navigating the system
An application process to be completed with an advocate includes multiple steps designed to determine if a client qualifies for assistance and to what extent. This program is free and confidential.
The Rapid Rehousing program is available to all domestic violence and sexual assault clients in our service area. An application process to be completed with an advocate includes multiple steps designed to determine if a client qualifies for assistance and to what extent.
All services are free and confidential.
Locations: Story, Boone, and Marshall Counties.
Marshalltown, IA 50158
Youth, Foster Care
AMP (Achieving Maximum Potential)
AMP is for youth ages 13-23 who are currently in foster care, have been adopted from foster care, or are involved in any other type of out-of-home placement. We are Iowa’s Foster Care Youth Council and meet as local Councils throughout the state.
AMP provides youth with a safe and fun place to meet with their peers to learn leadership skills, life skills, resources, and connections that will help them as they step into adulthood. AMP also impacts direct change to Iowa’s child welfare system through advocacy and education. Check out our Legislative Program for more information.
Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
