Heatwave Hits Homeless Shelters | Des Moines News

As Iowa’s temperatures soar, shelters brace for a heat-driven surge in homelessness, stocking up on essentials and hiring extra staff—since many avoid shelters until the heat becomes unbearable. With Polk County’s homelessness crisis worsening and emergency beds full, new funding from the county keeps critical heat-relief services alive. Meanwhile, rural areas like Ottumwa launch a daytime Empowerment Command Center offering showers, laundry, and wraparound services to fill the gap where shelters are scarce. Both communities urgently ask for donations of water, sunscreen, hygiene items, and lightweight clothing—and if you see someone struggling, offer help or call 911 for emergencies. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/90ab7b62d8e6e9e1