Frequently Asked Questions
Community Services
What services does the Community Services department provide?
We provide funding for services and programs as well as resource and referral, and care coordination for individuals who meet eligibility guidelines.
How can I get a caseworker?
To connect to a caseworker, contact (712) 328-5812 to discuss your needs.
Where can I access information about community services and supports?
Please visit the Southwest Iowa Mental Health and Disability Services Region website.
Where can I access social supports and/or a peer specialist?
The Peer Center is located at 622 S 4th St. Council Bluffs, IA and can be reached at (402) 679-1846.
Is there a National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) in the area?
Yes, the NAMI office can be reached by phone at (712) 542-7904 or on Facebook at NAMI Southwest Iowa.
How can I apply for food stamps?
You can apply for food stamps through the Department of Human Services at 417 E Kanesville, Council Bluffs, IA, through their website, or by calling (855) 944-3663.
Do you offer Mental Health First Aid trainings and other Mental Health or Disability related trainings?
Yes, contact (712) 328-5812 or (712) 328-5672 for specific information about Mental Health First Aid. Or visit the Southwest Iowa Region Mental Health and Disability Services website to learn about other region-sponsored trainings.
How can I learn more and provide feedback about current mental health and disability services in this area?
You can attend a Local Advisory Council meeting. For meeting dates, visit the Southwest Iowa Region Mental Health and Disability Services website. You can also sign up for their electronic notification system.
General Assistance
How can I apply for Pottawattamie County General Assistance?
The first step is to contact other agencies for assistance. Pottawattamie County General Assistance is to be the agency of last resort. Agencies to contact include:
- Interfaith | (712) 322-0531
- Salvation Army | (712) 328-2088
- Family Service Homeless Link | (712) 309-0016
If you are over the age of 60, you can also contact (712) 328-2540. If you are under the age of 25, you can contact Project Everlast at (402) 384-4670. If you are a veteran, you can contact Veterans Affairs at (712) 328-5797.
If these agencies are not able to assist, then you can call (712) 328-5867 and then your eligibility will be reviewed. If it is determined that you may qualify for approval, then an appointment will be scheduled. You may also complete the General Assistance Prescreen form, and you will be contacted upon receipt.
What does Pottawattamie County General Assistance provide help with?
- Current month's rent
- Utilities
- Medications
- Burial expenses
See application process for additional information on the eligibility process.
Does Pottawattamie County General Assistance provide rental deposits or first month's rent?
No. Agencies recommended to contact for this type of assistance include Interfaith Response at (712) 322-0531 and Family Service Homeless Link at (712) 309-0016.
Does Pottawattamie County General Assistance provide mortgage assistance?
No. It is recommended to contact Family Housing Advisory Services at (402) 934-6745, Iowa Legal Aid at 1-800-432-9229, or Iowa Mortgage Health at 1-877-622-4866 or visit their website.
Does Pottawattamie County General Assistance provide assistance for people living outside of Pottawattamie County?
No. Each county in Iowa has a General Assistance office, and it would be necessary to contact the county in which you reside. In addition, General Assistance does not provide help with moving to Pottawattamie County, i.e. no deposit nor first month's rental assistance.
Does Pottawattamie County General Assistance provide the Low Income Heat Assistance Program (LIHEAP)?
No. This annual program for heat assistance is provided through West Central Development. You can call them at (711) 322-2621.
Does Pottawattamie County General Assistance pay for hotels/motels?
No. It is recommended to contact Family Service Homeless Link at (712) 309-0016 or (531) 200-3500. You can also make contact with a worker at the New Visions Homeless Shelter and be entered into Coordinated Entry System through the Metro Area Continuum of Care for Homeless (MACCH) for potential assistance.
Key Services & Resources
Fax: (712) 328-5668
Monday - Friday
First Floor, Room 128
227 S 6th St
Council Bluffs, IA 51501
Council Bluffs, IA 51501
