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

Central Iowa Shelter & Services is a 501(c)(3) organization, with an IRS ruling year of 1998, and donations are tax-deductible.