Community Resources

The FreeStore supports children and families who have escaped domestic violence situations and those suffering from some other form of trauma including natural disaster and criminal assault. They provide donated furniture and household goods as these families begin new, independent, productive lives in safe environments.

Phone: (515) 282-3733 (ext 2 to arrange a furniture pick-up)

Toys for Tots is a program run by the United States Marine Corp Reserve which distributes toys to children whose parents cannot afford to buy them gifts for Christmas.

Contact: desmoinesiowatoysfortots@gmail.com

The local office of Translators USA provides fee based translation and interpretation services.

Phone: (515) 318-5066

Veterans Benefits helps Veterans and their families buy homes, earn degrees, start careers, stay healthy, and more.

Phone: (515) 323-7464

United Way of Central Iowa is a "Collective Impact" organization. Our real power comes from bringing together local nonprofits, businesses, elected officials and community leaders to collaborate and implement solutions to some of our community's most pervasive challenges.

The United Way is a free, trusted and professionally curated information and human services referral service that helps Iowans find the help they need 24/7/365.

Phone: 2-1-1

Text: text your zip code to 898211

Urbans Dreams is a local non-profit organization advocating for all members of the community by breaking down barriers. They offer outpatient substance abuse treatment, OWI services, monthly community engagement events, a community food pantry, and other services including a youth employment program. 

Phone: (515) 288-4742

Veridian Credit Union hosts Community Shred Days each spring and fall.  See the shred day event locations for contact information.

The VA Central Iowa Health Care System (VACIHCS) operates a Veterans Health Administration (VHA) medical facility in Des Moines, with Community Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs) around the state. The medical center provides acute and specialized medical and surgical services, residential outpatient treatment programs in substance abuse and post-traumatic stress and a full range of mental health and long-term care services.

Des Moines VA Medical Center

3600 30th Street

Des Moines, IA 50310-5753

Phone: (515) 699-5999

The mission of the Veterans Justice Programs is to identify justice-involved Veterans and contact them through outreach, in order to facilitate access to VA services at the earliest possible point. VA cannot provide legal services. For legal assistance, visit State Side Legal's help page or contact the nearest VJO specialist, who may know of community legal assistance resources. Sara Glenn is the Des Moines VJO contact.

The YMCA of Greater Des Moines offers an array of services including classes in health, fitness, sports, and other activities, notably swimming. In addition, child care and summer camp services are also available through the Y.  Lastly, the YMCA's Community Impact programs extend into programs supporting: summer learning loss prevention, financial fitness, drowning prevention, and more.

Phone: (515) 224-1888

Waukee Area Christian Services (WACS) brings our community together to offer supplemental food, clothing, medical services and other essentials to people needing a little extra help. Whether you’re in need of assistance or you want to give back to our wonderful community, their website will serve as a helpful guide to get you started.

Phone: (515) 987-5523

West Des Moines Community Schools (WDMCS) offers numerous support opportunities to enhance academic success including a tutor directory as a resource for students and parents.  

Phone: (515) 633-5000