IHYC Awarded $1.6 Million Investment

DES MOINES – U.S. Representative Zach Nunn (IA-03) today announced he secured a $1.6 million federal investment to support remodeling and expanding programs at Iowa Homeless Youth Centers (IHYC)’s Youth Opportunity Center in Des Moines.

“Every young person deserves a safe and secure environment to grow up in,” Rep. Nunn said. “The Iowa Homeless Youth Centers are key to ensuring at-risk youth have the support they need during difficult times. This investment will help expand programming and reach for this critical community center.”

Rep. Nunn secured $1.6 million through the Community Project Funding process, which allows members to designate funding for critical initiatives. The funding was included in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2024 which was signed into law on March 9.

“We are incredibly grateful to Congressman Nunn and the entire legislative team for their support and dedication to addressing youth homelessness in Iowa,” YSS President and CEO Andrew Allen said. “The funding for Iowa Homeless Youth Centers is a significant step forward in our mission to provide safe and supportive environments for youth who are at-risk or experiencing homelessness. Every young person deserves a home, and we look forward to our collaboration with Congressman Nunn to create hope and opportunity in our community.”

While at IHYC, young people can access a range of services, including daily meals, clothing, educational programming, and mental health counseling. The $1.6 million dollar investment will help IHYC remodel the basement of their Des Moines location to increase capacity to serve homeless youth. It’s expected this project will allow the center to serve an additional 100 individuals per year.

YSS Chief Development Officer Kara Warme spoke at the event and highlighted upcoming projects – Rooftop Gardens and Ember Recovery Campus – and shared success stories of youth served at IHYC.

“YSS is dedicated to creating enviornments where youth can thrive,” Warme said. “Starting by meeting basic needs and moving into paving the way for future success. Advocating for youth that are homeless is not partisan. The success of our programs relies on strong partnerships with the government at every level.”

You can watch the announcement here.