Many Iowans have experienced a sudden income drop, yet the bills keep coming. In these uncertain times, it is important to make decisions based on trustworthy information and to take action sooner rather than later. Because ISU Extension and Outreach staff are currently working from home, Iowans are invited to reach out to our Human…
Our latest news
Apr
03
2020
The Daily Reporter shined a light on a very special program launch for our senior residents in Spencer, Iowa. Here's a clip from their article, you can read it in its entirety here. Brittany Spieker, with CHI, worked with volunteers to coordinate delivery at Sunset Apartments later in the afternoon. Grand Avenue Community Kitchen also…
Apr
01
2020
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact more people, force new levels of normalcy, and trigger heightened emotions, we ask our residents to stay calm, vigilant, and focused on what truly matters. Paying rent is one of those things that truly matters, and we're here to help with payment options for staying current (or even…
Mar
26
2020
We are experiecing so many moments of strength during these unprecedented times. As our team continues to hear about and uncover resources that may be of support to our residents, we will post them here on our blog and on our dedicated page of Resources for Residents. Below are links to organizations on the frontline…
Mar
25
2020
Tanager Place, a children’s mental health care not-for-profit based in Cedar Rapids, is offering teletherapy for Iowans of all ages. "We know people of all ages are feeling the pressure of this new environment, and that our organization has the ability to step up and help," said Tonya Hotchkin, vice president of clinical services in…
Mar
25
2020
As of March 11, 2020, SNAP Online Purchasing has expanded to Iowa. Only eligible food may be purchased with SNAP benefits; delivery fees and other associated charges may not be paid for with SNAP benefits. On Jan. 5, 2017, FNS announced the selection of seven retailers for the initial launch of the SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot.…
Mar
16
2020
Out of an abundance of caution, we have closed all of our offices to walk-in traffic to protect the health of our residents and staff. If you have questions, need assistance, or would like to apply for housing, please contact us. During this unprecendented time, we have also shut down all community rooms, computer learning…
Mar
12
2020
With confirmed coronavirus cases growing in Iowa, we want to reach out to you and share some helpful information. Our entire team at Community Housing Initiatives is dedicated to the safety and well-being of our residents and our communities. We want to work together, as a team, as more information becomes available to us. Please…
Mar
06
2020
Community Housing Initiatives, a Spencer-based nonprofit developer of affordable housing, will soon break ground on renovations at Spencer Manor Apartments. Spencer Manor offers rental assistance serving people ages 62+ as well as qualified people with disabilities in Spencer, Iowa. CHI will invest more than $6.5 million to update the 52-unit property. The property includes 14…
Apr
26
2019
Through an innovative partnership between the City of West Des Moines and Microsoft, Phenix School is playing a new role helping the Valley Junction neighborhood in West Des Moines access free broadband internet service. On Wednesday, the city and project partners held a press conference at Phenix School to deliver updates about the effort, which…