Iowa Finance Authority Awards Over $5.7 Million for Homelessness Assistance in 2026
The Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) Board of Directors has approved grants exceeding $5.7 million to support 42 agencies involved in homelessness assistance initiatives throughout 2026.
Support for Iowa’s Most Vulnerable
"Iowa’s greatest housing needs include support for individuals with the lowest incomes who are at risk of homelessness," said IFA Director Debi Durham. Through collaborations with homeless service providers statewide, these funds aim to help many Iowans during crises and promote their path to stable housing.
How to Access Assistance
- Individuals seeking homelessness aid should visit iowahousinghelp.com or call the coordinated entry system at 833-739-0065.
- Residents of Des Moines or Polk County should call centralized intake at 515-248-1850.
- Residents in the Siouxland area can visit siouxlandhomeless.org or call 712-224-5247.
Funding Sources and Distribution
The grants come from the State-funded Shelter Assistance Fund (SAF), and federal programs including the Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) and Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA).
The IFA conducted competitive application processes for ESG and SAF funding. HOPWA funds are allocated based on Iowa Department of Public Health data, following a formula distribution.
Iowa Finance Authority Director Debi Durham: "Through strong partnerships with homeless service providers across the state, these awards will support many Iowans in their time of crisis and on their path to housing stability."
Author’s summary: Iowa Finance Authority has allocated over $5.7 million in 2026 to support agencies aiding low-income individuals at risk of homelessness statewide.