Received a 3 day eviction notice and electricity is shut off

(Request from Patty in Pella, Iowa) I am in need of I utility assistance and rent assistance. My electricity has been shut off for one month. Also on 8-19-2014 I received a 3 day eviction.  I’ve just begun working again, part time, as I’m trying to get partial disability.  One paycheck a month makes it hard to make ends meet at minimum wage. Having problems trying to find help, have exhausted 2 resources for county with last resource having no funds, please help thank you.

Dear Patty,

There is aid available for your type of situation. You actually have two very important needs that we should address.

First, your living situation is extremely fragile. With no utilities and an eviction notice, you are on the verge of homelessness. I do not know if the eviction can be averted, but there are some programs in place that can help if it is possible to stop the eviction.

If you are evicted, then you can find safe housing in an emergency shelter in Indianola or Des Moines. You may be able to stay closer using motel vouchers. We identified several rental assistance programs that serve Marion County. They can assist with providing cash aid if appropriate, or with placement into a better living situation.

The other main need that you have is to boost your income. There are a couple of agencies that can help you find a better job that takes your disability into account.

Iowa Workforce Development provides job coaching as well as skills training. Call 641-628-4511 to make an appointment for a visit, or you may drop by their Franklin Street office in Pella.

Promise Jobs is another potentially helpful option for you to gain better employment. Call 641-842-6566 to speak with someone at their Knoxville office.

Finally, you may benefit from “voc rehab”. Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation helps clients overcome mild disability by retraining them in other skills that can help them become employable. Call 641-828-6988 for the Knoxville office.

Between the emergency rental aid programs and the employment support programs, I am confident that you will have the support you need to improve your situation. It will take some time and effort. These programs have solid success rates, so make sure you contact them today to get started on a better path.