Community Solutions to Addressing Homelessness
Ames residents and human service providers are working together to address the problems of homelessness. Being without housing is a complex situation that often requires coordinated assistance to address the challenges. Finding solutions that treat unhoused people with compassion and dignity has benefits for the entire community.
In April of 2025, the City of Ames and Story County commissioned a study to develop solutions for homelessness. That report is available:
Ames-Story County Homelessness Action Plan(PDF, 939KB)
Conversations on Homelessness:
One-Page Summary(PDF, 65KB)
NEW EVENT:
Update on the April 2025 Homelessness Action Plan report
commissioned by the City of Ames and Story County
Open-house style event
1 to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, May 27
Ames Public Library Auditorium, 515 Douglas Ave.
Conversations on Homelessness: Ames-Story County Homelessness Action Plan Presentation | April 28, 2025
Seeking Solutions to Complex Problems
Within Ames and Story County are a network of service providers including public agencies and non-profit human services organizations working together to address the needs of individuals and families in our community.
These organizations provide essential services, including housing assistance, homelessness support, food security, and other vital resources. Through collaboration, these agencies are dedicated to fostering a compassionate and inclusive community where everyone has access to the help they need to thrive.
Recent Needs
Ames and Story County, like many communities nationwide, has experienced a rising demand for services to the unhoused. In response, non-profit organizations, public safety agencies, medical providers, local governments, and faith-based groups have united to tackle complex issues such as drug abuse, mental health challenges, aging, and physical health concerns.
Together, these entities are looking at ways to provide stable housing, reunite individuals with their families, and connect people with facilities best equipped to meet their needs.
This collaborative approach seeks to create lasting solutions and sustainable funding for some of the community’s most pressing challenges.
List of Service Providers and Map
Neighborhood Concerns
Old Town Neighborhood Facilitated Meeting - March 24, 2025(PDF, 1MB)
City Council Action
More Information
The City of Ames, through the City Manager's Office, is facilitating community conversations with service providers and posting the resource list. For more information, contact Assistant City Manager Pa Vang Goldbeck or call 515.239.5201.