Iowa Homeless Youth Centers (IHYC) works to eliminate homelessness among children, youth, and young families in Central Iowa. We believe, with support and assistance, homeless youth can attain self-sufficiency and break the cycle of poverty.
Through case management and advocacy, our dedicated staff works with young adults and young families (18-24) to become self-sufficient, and plan for a healthy and successful future.
IHYC Youth Opportunity Center
612 Locust, Des Moines
Dedicated to exclusively serving the needs of at-risk and homeless youth (age 18-24), the Youth Opportunity Center (YOC) provides a safe place for young people to connect with services. Our staff is committed to meeting youth where they are in life and assisting them in taking the first steps to self-sufficiency and a successful future.
Located in downtown Des Moines, IHYC’s Youth Opportunity Center provides a variety of services, including:
STREET OUTREACH
A hub of crisis counseling, service referrals and emergency need fulfillment, IHYC youth advocates provide outreach to youth living without safe, stable housing.
Drop-In Center Services
Showers and laundry facilities, a cell phone charging station, donation center access, service referrals and staff support are available for youth needing help.
Daily Meals
Provides free, nutritious meals at lunch (12-1 p.m.) and dinner (4:30-5:30 p.m.) to all at-risk and homeless young adults ages 18-24.
EMERGENCY BEDS
For youth (age 18-24) who have an urgent need for housing, the Youth Opportunity Center offers nine low-barrier, single bed units. Youth may stay for up to 60 days while working with IHYC youth advocates to meet immediate needs and plan their next step towards self-sufficiency.
ART STUDIO
COMPUTER LAB
MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING
Our Mental Health Counselor provides mental health support, available to youth IHYC programs.
| (602) 625-4851 | |
| gtena@yss.org | |
| Gabe Tena | |
| Community Engagement Coordinator | |
| http://www.iowahomelessyouth.org |
