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Empowering positive futures

Over 100 years of providing compassionate, life-changing assistance to families on their path to self-sufficiency.

As of July 2023, Bidwell Riverside Center and Hawthorn Hill officially merged into Families Forward, an organization where the original four programs - Bidwell Pantry, Child Development Center, New Directions Shelter, and The Home Connection - work together to provide compassionate, life-changing assistance to families and their path to self-sufficiency.​

How we help the community

Bidwell Pantry

Providing food, clothing, and basic essentials to all in need. Learn more >

Child Development Center

Affordable, high-quality early childhood education targeting families on limited incomes. Learn more >

New Directions Shelter

Emergency shelter and supportive services for families experiencing homelessness. Learn more >

The Home Connection

Providing vulnerable families with affordable homes while they work to achieve economic self-sufficiency. Learn more >

Child Development Center Client

"As a preemie baby, she got caught up with speech and occupational therapy services that were accommodated right on site, what a blessing that was for us!"

Child Development Center
Nationwide Logo
United Women in Faith
IA Conference The United Methodist Church
United Way of Central Iowa
Des Moines Area Religious Council

Thankful for sponsors like these

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