Grants for Disabled People in Iowa

Living with a disability can present unique challenges but it’s essential to know that there are resources and support systems in place to help overcome these obstacles. In this article, we will delve into different categories of assistance programs that aim to provide financial, housing, healthcare and other forms of aid to disabled individuals in Iowa.

State Assistance for Disabled People in Iowa

The Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) 

The DHS provides a wide range of programs and services to support disabled individuals. These include the Medicaid program, which offers comprehensive healthcare coverage and Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services, which helps disabled individuals develop job skills and find employment opportunities. To learn, visit https://hhs.iowa.gov/.

Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council (IDDC) 

The IDDC is committed to improving the quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities. They provide information, advocacy and funding opportunities to support disabled individuals and their families. To access resources and learn more about the IDDC, visit www.iowaddcouncil.org. 

Iowa Department for the Blind (IDB) 

The IDB offers a range of services and programs to enhance independence and quality of life for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. These programs include vocational rehabilitation, assistive technology services and education and outreach initiatives. For more information, visit https://blind.iowa.gov/. 

Health Assistance for Disabled People in Iowa

Iowa Division of Mental Health and Disability Services 

This division is dedicated to improving mental health and disability services in the state. They offer a variety of programs, including community-based services, crisis intervention and support for individuals with intellectual disabilities. For more information on the programs provided by the Iowa Division of Mental Health and Disability Services, visit https://hhs.iowa.gov.

Social Security

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

SSDI provides financial assistance to disabled individuals who have worked and paid into the Social Security system. Eligible individuals receive monthly benefits based on their work history and level of disability. For more information, visit  https://workforce.iowa.gov/vr/career-planning-other-services/disability-determination-services.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

SSI is a needs-based program that provides financial assistance to disabled individuals with limited income and resources. It helps cover basic needs such as 

• Food, 
• Shelter 
• Clothing. To learn more about SSI and the eligibility criteria, visit https://www.ncoa.org/article/what-is-supplemental-security-income-ssi. 

Disability Rights Iowa

Disability Rights Iowa is a nonprofit organization that advocates for the rights of disabled individuals. They provide legal assistance, advocacy services and resources to protect and promote the rights of disabled Iowans. To access their services and learn more about their work, visit https://www.iowalegalaid.org/resource/disability-rights-iowa.

Financial Assistance for Disabled People in Iowa

Salvation Army

The Salvation Army provides various financial assistance programs to individuals and families in need, including emergency rent and utility assistance. They offer support to help cover basic needs and ensure stability for vulnerable populations. For further information, visit https://www.sawso.org/.

Housing and Rent Assistance

Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) Housing Programs

The IFA offers a range of housing programs to help low-income individuals and families find affordable and safe housing options. These programs include 

• Rental assistance, 
• Affordable housing development, 
• First-time homebuyer programs. 

To explore the housing programs offered by the IFA, visit https://iowaaftercare.org/housing/. 

Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program

The Section 8 program provides rental assistance to eligible low-income individuals and families. Participants receive a voucher that can be used to rent a privately-owned apartment or house, with a portion of the rent being subsidized by the program. To learn more about the Section 8 program in Iowa, visit http://cirhahome.org/housing-programs/section-8-housing-choice-voucher-program/.

Iowa Coalition for Housing and Homelessness

The coalition works to prevent and end homelessness in Iowa by providing resources, support and advocacy. They offer assistance programs and resources to individuals and families facing housing challenges. To access their services and learn more about their work, visit www.iowahousing.org. 

Utility Bill Assistance for Disabled People in Iowa

Iowa Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) 

LIHEAP assists eligible individuals and families to cover their utility bills. It helps ensure that low-income households can afford essential utilities such as

• Electricity, 
• Gas  
• Water. 

To learn more about LIHEAP and utility bill assistance, visit https://hhs.iowa.gov/programs/programs-and-services/liheap.

Dollar Energy Fund

The Dollar Energy Fund offers utility bill assistance to low-income households facing challenges in paying their energy bills. They provide grants and resources to help individuals and families maintain essential utility services. To learn more about the Dollar Energy Fund’s programs in Iowa, visit https://www.hardshiptools.org/AgencyFinder.aspx.

Community Action Agencies

Community Action Agencies in Iowa provide various services to low-income individuals and families, including utility bill assistance. These agencies offer financial aid, energy conservation programs and other resources to help alleviate the burden of high utility bills. To find a Community Action Agency near you, visit https://capslo.org/what-is-a-community-action-agency/.

Charitable Assistance Programs

United Way of Central Iowa

The United Way of Central Iowa works with various nonprofit organizations and agencies to provide a wide range of assistance programs, including 

• Emergency financial assistance, 
• Food support 
• Rental assistance. 

They aim to address the immediate needs of individuals and families in crisis. To learn more about the United Way of Central Iowa and its programs, visit https://www.unitedway.org/local/united-states/iowa/united-way-of-central-iowa-ia. 

The American Red Cross

The American Red Cross provides emergency financial assistance and support to individuals and families affected by disasters or emergencies. They offer aid for immediate needs such as 

• Food, 
• Clothing, 
• Shelter 
• Medical expenses. 

To see more https://www.redcross.org/local/iowa.html.

Food and Nutrition Assistance 

Iowa Food Assistance Program

The Iowa Food Assistance Program, also known as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), provides eligible low-income individuals and families with electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards that can be used to purchase food at authorized retailers. To apply for food assistance or learn more about the program, visit https://hhs.iowa.gov/programs/food-assistance.

Food Bank of Iowa

The Food Bank of Iowa is a nonprofit organization that distributes food to partner agencies and programs across the state. They work to alleviate hunger and food insecurity by providing nutritious food to individuals and families in need. To access their services or find a food pantry near you, visit https://www.feedingamerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank/food-bank-of-iowa.

Transportation Assistance

Iowa RideShare

Iowa RideShare is a statewide program that promotes carpooling and vanpooling as affordable transportation options. They connect individuals who share similar travel routes, reducing transportation costs and promoting sustainable commuting. To learn more about RideShare Iowa and how to participate, visit https://transportation.uiowa.edu/ui-rideshare.

American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery

The Road to Recovery program provides transportation assistance to cancer patients who require transportation to and from their medical appointments. Volunteer drivers offer free rides, ensuring that patients can access necessary treatment and care. To learn more about the Road to Recovery program in Iowa, visit https://www.cancer.org/support-programs-and-services/road-to-recovery.html.

Clothing Assistance

Goodwill of Central Iowa

Goodwill accepts donations of clothing and sells them at affordable prices in their thrift stores. The revenue generated from sales supports their programs and services for individuals with disabilities. To find a Goodwill store or donation center in Iowa, visit https://inrc.law.uiowa.edu/non-profit-organizations/goodwill-industries-central-iowa.

Dress for Success Iowa

Dress for Success Iowa offers professional attire, career development resources and support to women transitioning into the workforce. The program empowers women to achieve economic independence and advance in their careers. To learn more about Dress for Success Iowa, visit https://desmoines.dressforsuccess.org/. 

Business Support for Disabled People

Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services

Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services provides assistance and support to individuals with disabilities who want to enter the workforce or maintain employment. They offer vocational counseling, job training, assistive technology and other services to help disabled individuals succeed in their careers. Find out more information at https://workforce.iowa.gov/vr.

Iowa Small Business Development Centers

The Iowa Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) offer resources, guidance and training to individuals with disabilities who are interested in starting or expanding their businesses. They assist with business planning, access to capital and entrepreneurial education. To explore the services provided by the Iowa SBDC, visit https://www.isupark.org/the-park/small-business-development-center-sbdc/.

Disability Rights Iowa

Disability Rights Iowa is an advocacy organization that promotes the rights and independence of individuals with disabilities. They offer information, support and resources for disabled individuals interested in self-employment or entrepreneurship. To access their services and learn more about their work, visit www.disabilityrightsiowa.org. 

Assistance for Disabled Veterans

Disabled American Veterans (DAV)

The DAV is a nonprofit organization that provides support and advocacy for disabled veterans. They offer assistance programs, benefits counseling, transportation services and other resources to help disabled veterans navigate their post-military lives. To learn more about the services provided by the DAV in Iowa, visit www.dav.org. 

Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs

The Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs offers a range of services and programs for disabled veterans, including 

• Benefits assistance, 
• Employment support,
• Access to healthcare. 

They advocate for veterans’ rights and work to improve their overall well-being. To explore the resources provided by the Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs, visit https://dva.iowa.gov/. 

Assistance for Disabled Seniors   

Aging Resources of Central Iowa

Aging Resources of Central Iowa provides a wide range of services and support for disabled seniors, including 

• Case management, 
• Home-delivered meals, 
• Transportation assistance,
• Caregiver support. 

They aim to enhance the independence and well-being of seniors in the community. Find out more information at https://hhs.iowa.gov/locations/aging-resources-central-iowa.