Emergency shelter tonight in Iowa
The short answer
Dial 211 and say you need a place to sleep tonight. If someone is hurting you, call 1 800 770 1650 or text IOWAHELP to 20121. Veterans can call 1 877 424 3838. Youth can call 1 800 786 2929.
Need help tonight?
Call 211 first
211 Iowa can tell you about shelters near you and what is open tonight.
"I need a safe place to sleep tonight. I'm near [city or ZIP]. It's [just me / me and my kids]."
"What time is check in, and what should I bring?"
Official pages: 211iowa.org, hud.gov/states/iowa
If someone is hurting you
The Iowa Victim Service Call Center is open 24 hours for Iowans hurt by domestic violence, sexual violence, trafficking and other crime. Call 1 800 770 1650 or text IOWAHELP to 20121. It is confidential and costs nothing.
Official page: survivorshelpline.org
Youth and veterans
- Young people who ran away or can't go home: National Runaway Safeline, 1 800 786 2929, 24 hours.
- Veterans who are homeless or about to be: VA National Call Center for Homeless Veterans, 1 877 424 3838, 24 hours.
Official pages: 1800runaway.org, va.gov/homeless
What to bring if you can
- Any ID you have, and papers for your kids.
- Medicines in their bottles.
- A phone charger.
- A change of clothes and a small bag you can carry.
More help in Iowa
Sources last checked October 27, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it.
Nothing here is a promise of a bed, money or a spot in any program. Each place decides who it can serve. You choose what feels right for you.