Des Moines - Unity Place

Late this afternoon, I traveled to the south side of Des Moines for a heart lifting event.

You may have heard that the YWCA in downtown Des Moines closed its doors in February, which meant that several women - including some mothers with small children - were going to lose their housing and be put out on the streets.

Thankfully, though, some very concerned citizens joined forces and worked tirelessly to give these women the housing they needed and deserved.

EJ Giovanetti and John Mauro, Polk County Supervisors, helped spearhead the efforts. Thanks to contributions from the Polk County Housing Trust, Prairie Meadows, the Polk County Board of Supervisors, United Way, Conlin Housing, and many others, funds were secured that helped purchase an old apartment complex and turn it into transitional housing for women in need.

One group that has been really active was the Des Moines Radio Group - especially Maxwell and Pam from KIOA. They led a fundraiser which raised over $50,000 for this project.

And I am really proud that our administration was able to help turn the project into a reality. Through the I-JOBS program, nearly $200,000 will be used to make final improvements at the facility, and give the women a good place to call home. And through Iowa Prison Industries, we were able to supply thousands of dollars in furniture.

After saying a few words, we took a quick tour, and I can tell you, it is really nice. In a very short amount of time this group has done a great job in getting everything put together and ensuring these women never have to spend a night out on the street.

It was a great event. It really was inspiring to see what was able to be accomplished in a short amount of time. It just reminds you that when people work together, we truly can achieve anything.

Until next time,

Patty