Des Moines RRT Feeds Homeless at the Central Iowa Shelter

Summer has hit the Midwest in full force, and there’s no better way to enjoy the heat than to have a cookout and soak up the sun!  On Saturday, March 3rd, RRT of Des Moines made sure that the less fortunate living at the Central Iowa Shelter & Services absorbed the summer spirit and served all a summertime favorite meal of grilled hamburgers and hot dogs.

Happy Residents Receiving An RRT Signature. 

Since 1992, Central Iowa Shelter & Services’ mission is to provide low-barrier shelter, meals, and support services at no cost to adults experiencing homelessness and to facilitate their move toward self-sufficiency.  Approximately 2,000 women and men experiencing homelessness have received emergency shelter and supportive services to help them move beyond homelessness each year.

RRT Serving the Meal.

 

RRT Grilling Burgers.

In September 2012, CISS opened its new facility. The facility grew from being 8,000 square feet and 96 beds to 207 beds and 42,000 square feet. It is equipped to provide expanded emergency shelter (150 beds); expanded transitional housing for Veterans (19 rooms); and 38 Project Based Section 8 Voucher efficiency apartments. Along with expanded housing capacity, CISS also provides an on-site health clinic, food pantry, clothing closet, classrooms, and a 30-foot growing dome.

A Huge “Thank you!!”

 

Grilling Hotdogs.

All guests and residents are provided evening and breakfast meals; access to shower and laundry facilities, a weekly medical clinic, and group counselling; as well as individualized case management, life skills instruction, and referrals to other community services/benefits.

Preparing A BBQ Meal Using A RRT Cooking Trailer. 

 

Assembling RRT Burgers In The Trailer.

After 4,899 volunteer hours from those helping at the Shelter, the Des Moines Rapid Relief Team took pleasure in giving them a break by providing a BBQ meal for the 230+ residents. The smiles all around told the story as everyone savored the perfectly grilled supper provided by the RRT Crew.

Checking The Temperature of Burgers.