Polk County Health Department

06/05/2026

Today is Gun Violence Awareness Day, a moment to honor the lives taken too soon, stand with survivors, and recognize the strength of communities affected by gun violence.

Earlier this week, we joined the Tawasi Federated Women's Club and our community for a powerful vigil. Together, we honored loved ones lost, uplifted survivors, and listened to leaders and community members who continue to advocate for a safer future. Moments like these remind us that healing and prevention are collective efforts — and that none of us are alone in this work.

We also shared resources from our campaign and handed out free gun locks. Safe storage is a simple step that can save lives.

If you or someone you know needs a gun lock, you can get one for free at locations throughout Polk County:
🔗 https://polkcountyiowa.pulse.ly/jmgyqjgjwh

06/05/2026

Iowa SUN Bucks is now accepting applications for Summer 2026 grocery benefits.

But wait! Most eligible children will be automatically enrolled. Find out if your kids are eligible and if you need to apply: https://hhs.iowa.gov/assistance-programs/food-assistance/sun-bucks

06/04/2026

🐾 June is National Pet Preparedness Month!
Microchipping your pets is one of the most effective ways to reunite families during an emergency.
If you ever need to evacuate or become separated from your animals, a microchip can help ensure they’re identified and returned safely.

Keep your pets protected by taking these steps:

Get your pets microchipped — A quick, permanent form of ID that can’t fall off or be lost.

Update your contact information — Make sure your phone number and address are current in the microchip registry.

Keep a backup ID tag — Collars and tags add an extra layer of protection during emergencies.

Keep current pictures of your pet(s).

❤️ A few minutes of preparation today can make all the difference when it matters most.

06/04/2026

🌞 Join Us at the Safe Summer Kickoff! 🌞

We’re excited to be attending the 2026 Safe Summer Kickoff this Friday, June 5th from 5–7 PM at Evelyn K. Davis Park (1400 Forest Ave, Des Moines)!

Come out and enjoy
• FREE food
• Games and fun for all ages
• Community connection
• Summer program info for school‑age kids
• Free bike safety checks and minor repairs by the Street Collective

This event is open to everyone—bring your family, friends, and neighbors as we kick off summer together! ☀️🎉

We hope to see you there!

06/04/2026

🎉 That’s a wrap on another school year!

We loved joining our neigbors at King Elementary for the end-of-year Clap Out! Wishing all students, teachers, and staff a fun, safe, and well-deserved break. ☀️👏

06/03/2026

Rain is in the forecast. Before the next storm rolls in, take a minute to check your sprinkler system. Many irrigation systems are programmed to run automatically.

Why does it matter? During the summer, lawn watering can account for up to 40 percent of daily water use. Small changes by many customers can make a big difference for our community's water supply.

You can help:
✅ Turn off sprinklers when rain is expected
✅ Skip a watering day
✅ Water only when your lawn truly needs it

Together, these simple actions help preserve critical water supplies, maintain reliable service, and ensure high-quality drinking water for our community all summer long.

06/03/2026

Happy World Bicycle Day! Riding your bike is a great way to get around, get some exercise, and enjoy all our community has to offer. Remember: Whether we're on two wheels or four, we all share the road.

Let’s look out for each other and make sure everyone arrives safely. 🚲💙

06/03/2026

Great neighborhoods are built from many ingredients working together.

Housing helps people put down roots. Businesses create destinations and jobs. Transit helps connect residents and visitors with the places they want to go.

In neighborhoods like Highland Park, these pieces come together to create places with a strong sense of identity and community. That's how neighborhoods thrive.

06/03/2026

06/02/2026

Building safe, more supportive communities for survivors starts with conversation.

We are proud to partner with our colleagues at Monsoon Asians & Pacific Islanders in Solidarity for an upcoming community dialogue on the impact of sexual violence and the ways it affects individuals, families, and communities.

As part of the Shouts & Whispers with Rekha Basu series, this conversation will explore the intersections of sexual violence, r**e culture, trafficking, intimate partner violence, harassment, and other forms of violence. Together, we’ll make space for reflection, learning, connection, and conversations about community care and survivor support.

📅 Saturday, June 13, 2026
🕐 1-3 p.m.
📍 Forest Avenue Public Library, 1326 Forest Ave., Des Moines

Questions? Reach out to [email protected].