Community

Family Enrichment Center

Families who are at 175% of the federal poverty level or below, have a dependent child in the home, and are residents of Iowa can join the Family Development and Self-Sufficiency program (FaDSS).  This voluntary program provides services that promote, empower, and nurture families towards economic and emotional self-sufficiency.  The foundation of FaDSS is regular home visits with families, using a strengths-based approach. Core services include support, goal setting, and assessment. 

The Polk County Family Enrichment Center (FEC) is the FaDSS grantee for Polk County. The FEC program works to improve the lives of families at risk of long-term welfare dependency or family instability by creating opportunities for self-sufficiency. Many referrals come from Promise Jobs but participants may also be referred by other agencies or can refer themselves. FEC case managers meet with and track each family as they progress through the case lifecycle. FEC is also responsible for coordinating with the state FaDSS and PROMISE Jobs programs to provide these agencies with the data they need to keep the program flourishing.

To be eligible for the FaDSS program at the Family Enrichment Center, a participant must be a resident of Polk County. Participation is voluntary.  

The Family Enrichment Center can help participants with:

  • Housing
  • Transportation
  • Child Care
  • Parenting
  • Health
  • Family Support
  • Quality of Life
  • Life Skills
  • Budgeting
  • Nutrition
  • Substance Abuse
  • Communication
  • Referrals
  • Goals
  • Career Counseling
  • Job Search
  • Job Training
  • Job Skills
  • Education
  • Advocacy

 

On-Site Resources

  • Clothing Closet
  • Food Pantry
  • Laundry Facilities
  • Employment Resources
  • Financial Empowerment Center 

Our Mission

To assist families in achieving stability and economic independence by providing family support services, education and training, and opportunities for employment.

Location & Contact Information

Polk County River Place
2309 Euclid Avenue
Des Moines, IA 50310
(515) 286-3406

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