Willis Dady is committed to providing a safe, welcoming environment for individuals and
families in need of shelter. While our goal is to help as many people as possible avoid needing shelter altogether, there are times when the need for shelter is unavoidable, including during the current coronavirus outbreak.
In line with guidance from the CDC and HUD (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) for organizations serving people experiencing homelessness, Willis Dady is continuing to provide support and access to shelter. Both our shelter and overflow shelter are currently open, and as of March 16 we began operating 24/7 at both locations. Until the public libraries, transportation center, and schools are reopened we anticipate staying open 24/7 to our clients.
Our staff is following protocols for safely working with clients, and we have established action steps for clients who may be displaying symptoms, isolation-in-place procedures, and enhanced cleaning procedures.
How you can help
Volunteer
We are still working to fill volunteer positions at the desk and overnight. If you’re interested in volunteering, please fill out a volunteer application on our website, or call Marcy, operations manager, at 319-362-7555. Please note: people with a high risk of infection are not encouraged to continue volunteering.
Donate
Our shelter is in need of the following items. They can be dropped off at 1247 4th Ave SE from M-F, 9 am - 5 pm:
Paper Plates
Hand Soap
Hand Sanitizer
Dish Soap
Disinfectant Wipes
Paper Towels
Toilet Paper
Kleenex
Financial Donations
We also greatly appreciate financial donations to our shelter, especially at this time of heightened need. Make a secure donation online or send a check to: Willis Dady Homeless Services 1247 4th Ave SE Cedar Rapids, IA 52403
Hops for Housing rescheduled for Saturday, August 8, 2020 Hops for Housing, our annual fund- and awareness-raising event that provides critical operating support to Willis Dady Homeless Services, has been rescheduled to Saturday, August 8, 2020 from 2:30pm-5:30pm. It was originally scheduled for April 4, 2020.
If you have already purchased Hops for Housing tickets, they are good for the August 8 date. Learn more about the event and purchase Hops for Housing tickets here. Thank you, in advance, for your support during this time.
-Phoebe Trepp, Director