Public Assistance

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SNAP: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (formerly food stamps)

iowa_ebt_card

Food assistance comes in the form of an electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card (as pictured).

Launched in October 2010, in cooperation with the Iowa Department of Human Services, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and United Way of Central Iowa, DMARC is placing up to ten (10) electronic SNAP application stations in pantry sites and other human service programs throughout Polk, Dallas, and Warren counties. Trained outreach assistants will be available to help low-income clients with the SNAP assessment and application process. In the first year, this outreach effort is expected to help stabilize up to 350 low-income households (875 people), while relieving food insecurity and improving access to healthy foods. SNAP assessments and applications can also be completed through the Iowa DHS OASIS system.

Find out if you qualify for SNAP benefits

Iowa DHS Online Application for State of Iowa Services (OASIS)

OASIS is the state of Iowa’s electronic assessment and application process for the Department of Human Services (DHS) public benefits programs. The online assessment process is available in both English and Spanish. The assessment takes about 10-25 minutes to complete, and determines potential household eligibility for various programs and services provided through the Iowa Department of Human Services, including:

  • Emergency Food Assistance (provided within 7 days)
  • Child Care Assistance
  • Well Child and Prenatal Care
  • Cash Assistance (Family Investment Program, or FIP)
  • Medical Assistance (Medicaid, State Supplemental Assistance, Hawk-I)

Learn More

Low-Income Heating and Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

Several pantry sites facilitate applications and requests for LIHEAP funds during the peak application period of October 1 – December 31. Requests from households with seniors and persons with disabilities are given priority processing from October 1 – November 1. If approved for assistance, LIHEAP funds are deposited directly with the utility vendor and help off-set high heating costs during Iowa winters.

Ask your pantry site coordinator for more information.
Or learn more about home weatherization.

Women, Infant and Children (WIC)

WIC is a supplemental nutrition assistance program for pregnant mothers, infants (to age 1), and children (to age 5). Consumers can request WIC program information and/or applications through DMARC Emergency Food Pantry sites, or any of five WIC-affiliated clinics in Polk County.

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Medicare/Medicaid

Social Security Insurance

Veterans Benefits

Homeless Prevention and Rapid Re-housing Program (HPRP), Section 8 & similar

HPRP provides supportive services and housing-related subsidies for up to 18 months to prevent families from becoming homeless and to quickly re-house and stabilize families that have become homeless. HPRP case managers provide initial assessment, counseling, and case management services for HPRP-eligible households.

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Polk County Programs & Services

Individuals and families can apply to Polk County General Assistance for supplemental help in meeting basic and special needs.

Polk County workers assist applicants in determining eligibility and applying for programs and services based on Polk County residency, income guidelines, and the applicants’ circumstances. Clients may apply for assistance with food, shelter, utility payments, household and personal items, funeral services, furniture and more.
Learn More

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