Polk County Unveils Bold Five-Year Strategy to Combat Homelessness

A five-year plan aimed at addressing homelessness in Polk County has been unveiled by Homeward, the county’s homelessness planning organization, in partnership with the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines.

The project called "The roadmap to tackle homelessness" originates from extensive studies conducted by Homeward over many years.

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Since 2022, Homeward has gathered information about homelessness in Polk County, revealing that over 3,000 people encountered homelessness in the area during 2024.

Shelby Ridley, who works as a crisis responder and is a leading proponent of the initiative, has dedicated many years to assisting people experiencing homelessness. She stated her belief that this plan provides an opportunity for those impacted the most to be heard.

"To feel like we have other people around us unified in the vision for helping folks become housed, stay housed, and really thrive in the community feels really uplifting," she said.

The information gathered by Homeward reflects insights provided by people who have faced homelessness in Polk County. According to Ridley, since this data stems from the community's firsthand experiences and challenges, it effectively conveys these difficulties to local leadership within the county.

The updated strategy revolves around seven key areas designed to broaden the scope of shelter services and facilitate the move of people towards secure housing. This program likewise seeks to encourage cooperation between nearby enterprises, charitable benefactors, and the broader public.

The Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines pledged $100,000 to the project, but city leaders emphasize the need for additional support.

"We need more members of the business community and big philanthropic donors at the table," Ward 1 Des Moines city councilman Chris Coleman said.

The detailed strategy outlining the county’s planned actions for the upcoming five-year period can be accessed online. Homeward’s website .

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