Coordinated Entry is the front door to homeless services. It is the first point of contact for those who need housing assistance. It provides guidance to anyone experiencing homelessness to the correct support and housing programs most appropriate to their situation.

PROACTIVE AND SHORT-TERM PROGRAMS
STREET OUTREACH: collaborate with local partners to meet individuals and families experiencing homelessness where they are and offer assistance in camps and on the street.
LIBRARY OUTREACH: regular hours at libraries in Ames, Boone and Marshalltown where people experiencing homelessness can meet with a case worker and work on a housing plan.
EMERGENCY SHELTER: short-term emergency shelter and housing support services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Provides food, financial education, and health and wellbeing assistance.

LONG-TERM PROGRAMS
SUPPORTIVE HOUSING: client-focused services based on the degree of need and the severity of barriers individual/families are facing. Will help clients secure affordable housing and provide the tools needed to overcome financial barriers and maintain a permanent home. Individualized support services, including life skills counseling, employment assistance, budgeting and financial literacy, and community resources referrals are also provided.
RAPID RE-HOUSING: is a time limited program, with temporary financial housing assistance and supportive services for people experiencing homelessness leading to permanent housing and self-sufficiency. The timeframe will be from a minimum of one month to typically a maximum of six months of rental assistance.
CONNECTION TO COMMUNITY SERVICES: connects clients to various external programs and community resources to help them achieve sustainable, healthy outcomes.