GreenState Donates New Truck to IHYC

Thanks to GreenState Credit Union, Iowa Homeless Youth Centers (IHYC) recently acquired a new vehicle to assist local youth experiencing homelessness.

A YSS organization based in Des Moines, IHYC helps homeless youth and young families by providing street outreach, a drop-in center, emergency beds, daily meals, case management, mental health therapy, and supportive housing programs.

With a $20,000 donation from the GreenState Foundation, IHYC purchased a new pickup truck for its Rapid Re-housing Program, which helps young adults who are at-risk or experiencing homelessness move into their own apartment. Participants in the program work with an IHYC advocate and receive rent assistance for 12+ months as they work to obtain employment and overall self-sufficiency.

The new pickup will assist in transporting participants’ belongings and furniture donations. The vehicle will also help IHYC transport youth to work, school, or appointments.

“We are excited for our new truck, which will help us provide essential services and remove transportation obstacles—whether it’s helping a youth get to a job interview or moving a young family into an apartment of their own,” said Toby O’Berry, Director of IHYC and AVP of YSS Transition Services. “I’m grateful for the support from GreenState to further our mission.”

“The GreenState Foundation is honored to support YSS as they continue to provide hope and opportunity to youth across the Des Moines metro,” said Tara Wachendorf, President of the GreenState Foundation. “We understand transportation can be a barrier in our community, and we feel this vehicle will fill that gap in a multitude of ways. Thank you to YSS for making us aware of this important need.”