Eviction

The failure of the US Congress to act to address the crisis of those who face eviction is a glaring example of our broken political, economic and social justice systems. Politicians who objected to renewal of the moratorium on evictions should have come up with an alternative. But did not. Conservative estimates show between 50,000 and 65,000 people face eviction in Iowa in August (Des Moines Register).

Everyone has the right to food, water and shelter.

This is another example of the importance of Mutual Aid. Another example of not waiting for help from the government. 50,000 evictions cannot be handled by one Mutual Aid group like my Des Moines Mutual Aid group. But Mutual Aid groups in every community would. Think about starting your own Mutual Aid group. In the meantime, please donate here.

Des Moines Mutual Aid

July 25 · Applications have re-opened… but we need your help to keep them that way.
Please donate to the fund so we can continue to provide relief to our neighbors in the form of rent, utilities and more.
DONATE Venmo: venmo.com/desmoines_mutualaid
PayPal: bit.ly/dsmblmrentrelief
APPLYbit.ly/dsmrentrelief

How to find help if you’re facing eviction
For renters who may get an eviction notice, the first piece of advice experts say is: Stay put.
A tacked-on notice from your landlord does not mean your family must leave your apartment, said Eric Burmeister, executive director of the Polk County Housing Trust Fund. Only a judge can order a notice to vacate. The process can take 30 to 60 days.
Experts say it’s better to call for help before a formal eviction notice is filed with the courts. Many nonprofit organizations can help with finding assistance and negotiating a payment plan with your landlord to avoid a court order.
It’s also important not to skip the eviction hearing. If a renter does, the judge can issue a default judgement in favor of the landlord. 
There are several numbers to call for help: 
United Way: 211
Iowa Legal Aid: 800-332-0419
Iowa Rent and Utility Assistance Program: iowahousingrecovery.com, 855-300-5885
Polk County rental assistance, IMPACT Community Action Partnership: 515-518-4770

The federal freeze on evictions ends Saturday. Thousands of Iowa renters could be at risk by Ian Richardson and Kim Norvell, Des Moines Register, July 30, 2021