Shelter

Free, safe shelter for anyone in need, with separate facilities for men and for women, whether single or with children.

Shelter for Men

Since 1915, Bethel Mission has provided free emergency shelter for men facing homelessness. Guests receive:
  • A safe bed
  • Three meals daily
  • Hygiene items, clothing, and laundry access
  • Caring, respectful staff support

What to Expect

At Bethel Mission, we strive to make every guest feel valued and respected. Our shelter is more than a place to sleep — it’s a safe environment where men can stabilize and take their next steps forward.

During their stay, guests have access to case management, referrals to community resources, and opportunities for spiritual encouragement. Many also choose to learn about our free one-year life recovery program, which begins at Bethel Mission and continues at our Door of Faith men’s life recovery center.

Whether a guest is here for a few nights or ready to work toward lasting change, our team provides compassionate guidance, practical help, and a listening ear.

How to Access Shelter for Men

Call (515) 244-5445 or visit Bethel Mission for intake details.

Men’s Shelter at Bethel Mission

1310 6th Avenue, Des Moines, IA
(515) 244-5445
Get Directions

Shelter for Women and Children

The Hope Ministries Center for Women and Children provides free shelter and support for single women and mothers with children — from short-term stays to long-term residential life recovery. Guests receive:
  • A safe, stable environment
  • Nutritious meals and daily essentials
  • Clothing, hygiene items, and laundry access
  • Support from a dedicated case manager

What to Expect

The Hope Ministries Center for Women and Children offers both short-term shelter and long-term life recovery for single women and mothers with children.

  1. Short-term shelter: Providing meals, daily essentials, and clothing in a safe, stable environment.
  2. Support for next steps: Each guest works with a case manager on housing, employment, education, and access to community resources.
  3. Help for children: Age-appropriate activities, mentoring, and counseling.

Our campus is designed to be a peaceful and secure place where women and children can focus on rebuilding their lives. Our free long-term life recovery program (up to two years) includes counseling, life skills classes, job training, and spiritual development. Learn more here.

How to Access Shelter for Women

Call (515) 264-0144 for intake details.

The Hope Ministries Center for Women and Children

3800 E. Douglas Avenue, Des Moines, IA
(515) 264-0144
Get Directions

Empowering Women

Join a philanthropy group of women passionate about uplifting single women and moms in need. Together, members give, serve, and learn — providing hope and practical support through Hope Ministries Center for Women and Children.
Learn More

How You Can Help Provide Shelter

From emergency shelter to long-term residential programs, your gifts and service make it possible.

More Than Shelter: Life Recovery

Life recovery provides up to two years of practical help, guidance, and spiritual support to break cycles and build stability.

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