Support When You Need It Most
HACAP connects families to essential services that help with basic needs like energy assistance, food access, childcare support, affordable housing, veteran support, resources for pregnant women, and much more. Explore our services below to find the help that's right for you or take a look at our community resource partners and browse our online Help Center to find additional programs and support available to you.
Energy Assistance (LIHEAP)
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps low-income households pay for essential heating and cooling costs. It provides financial assistance for energy bills, emergency shutoffs, and limited energy-related home repairs. Funding is distributed by states and is typically paid directly to utility providers on behalf of eligible households. LIHEAP offers seasonal support to help keep homes safe and comfortable during extreme weather conditions.
Find Food Near You
Each month, our Mobile Food Pantry visits neighborhoods without nearby grocery stores or food pantries, and our schedule is updated regularly so you can plan your visit. You can view the latest Mobile Food Pantry stops to see when we’ll be in your area. If you need additional options, use our interactive map to quickly find nearby food pantries, complete with hours, directions, and contact details.
Northwest Neighborhood Resource Center
The Northwest Neighborhood Resource Center (formerly Olivet Neighborhood Mission) is a multi-use facility serving neighbors on the northwest side of Cedar Rapids. It houses both a food market and a Head Start Early Childhood Education program designed to support families in need. Individuals can schedule an appointment to reserve a shopping time at the food market and receive personalized assistance. Visitors can also connect with additional community programs that address a variety of needs.
Head Start
Head Start is a free early childhood education program for low-income children ages 3–5 and their families. It supports school readiness through learning, social development, and family engagement. Families also gain access to resources that promote health, nutrition, and overall well-being. Learn more about Head Start and how to enroll here.
HACAP Food Reservoir
HACAP’s Food Reservoir is the hub of our hunger‑relief work, sourcing and distributing millions of pounds of food each year to partners across Eastern Iowa. Through a network of nearly 300 pantries, meal sites, and community programs, we help ensure families have consistent access to nutritious food. By strengthening local partnerships and focusing on dignity and choice, the Food Reservoir plays a vital role in reducing food insecurity in our region.
See How We Fight Hunger
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
HACAP’s WIC program supports pregnant women, new mothers, and children under five with the nutrition and resources they need to stay healthy. Families receive access to healthy foods, breastfeeding support, and personalized guidance from trained staff who understand their unique needs. By focusing on early development and maternal health, WIC helps build a strong foundation for lifelong well‑being.
Explore WIC Services
Senior Dining (Benton County)
HACAP’s Senior Dining Program provides nutritious hot meals to older adults in Belle Plaine and Vinton, ensuring they have access to the food they need to stay healthy. For seniors who are unable to leave their homes, our team delivers meals directly to their door, offering both nourishment and connection. By supporting independence and reducing isolation, the program helps older Iowans remain safe, supported, and well‑cared for.
See Senior Dining Options
Affordable Housing
HACAP’s Affordable Housing program provides safe, stable homes for low‑income families with children, helping them build a foundation for long‑term stability. We manage a range of apartments and single‑family dwellings to ensure families have access to quality, affordable places to live. By reducing housing barriers, the program supports parents and children in creating a secure environment where they can thrive.
See Available Housing
Operation Home
HACAP’s Veterans Program works to improve the housing stability of homeless veterans and their families, ensuring they have a safe place to rebuild their lives. Through Operation Home, veterans receive personalized case management that connects them with housing, benefits, and supportive services. By addressing both immediate needs and long‑term goals, the program helps veterans move toward lasting stability and independence.
Find Support for Veterans
Weatherization
HACAP’s Weatherization Program helps lower utility costs for low‑income individuals and families by improving the energy efficiency of their homes. Through repairs, insulation, and safety upgrades, the program strengthens housing quality while reducing monthly energy burdens. By making homes safer, healthier, and more efficient, Weatherization provides long‑term stability and comfort for those who need it most.
Learn About Weatherization
I-Smile
HACAP’s I‑Smile program connects children and pregnant women with the dental, medical, and community resources they need for lifelong health. By helping families access preventive care and supportive services early, the program reduces barriers that can lead to long‑term health challenges. Through education, referrals, and compassionate guidance, I‑Smile promotes strong, healthy futures for both moms and kids.
Connect With I‑Smile Services
Hawki/Medicaid
Hawki provides free or low‑cost health care coverage for kids and teens under 19, helping families access essential medical services. The program covers doctor visits, checkups, prescriptions, dental care, and more to support children’s overall health. By reducing financial barriers, Hawki ensures that young people can get the care they need to grow and thrive.
Explore Coverage Options
SNAP
SNAP helps families in need buy the nutritious foods they rely on to stay healthy. By providing monthly benefits that can be used at grocery stores, farmers markets, and other authorized retailers, SNAP gives households the flexibility to choose the foods that work best for them. This support strengthens food security and helps families stretch their budgets during challenging times.
See If You Qualify
Family Learning Connection (FLC)
HACAP’s Family Learning Connection program provides Linn County families with group education, helpful resources, and supportive connections that strengthen early childhood development. By bringing parents and caregivers together, it creates a welcoming space to learn, share experiences, and build confidence. These services help children grow up healthy, supported, and ready for success in school.
