Bishop William Joensen and Jeanne Thill welcome Emily Welch Smith of Central Iowa Shelter & Services to discuss homelessness, mental health challenges, and how faith communities can respond with compassion, dignity, and practical support.
On this episode of Making It Personal, Bishop William Joensen and Jeanne Thill are joined by Emily Welch Smith, Director of Philanthropy for Central Iowa Shelter & Services (CISS). Together, they explore the growing needs of individuals experiencing homelessness in Central Iowa and the vital work being done to provide shelter, stability, and long-term empowerment.
Emily shares the inspiring origins of CISS, founded by a coalition of local churches, and explains how the organization has grown into a comprehensive support center offering far more than emergency housing. Services include job training, meals open to the public, a community clothing closet, food pantry, and the innovative Empowerment Command Center, where clients receive help with resumes, healthcare access, identification documents, and housing resources.
The conversation also highlights the deep connection between homelessness and mental illness, the challenges of bitter winter weather, and how the shelter serves as an official warming center during weather amnesty.
In the closing reflections, Bishop Joensen connects this mission to the Gospel call of Matthew 25 and the upcoming World Day of the Sick, reminding listeners that Christian charity is not passive but a decision to draw near with mercy and love.
To learn more or volunteer, visit centraliowashelter.org.
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