Community Resources

Looking for assistance, but not sure where to turn? The library has compiled a comprehensive list of print, online and local area resources that address general needs, healthcare, housing and food, mental health and more.

United Way 211

United Way 211 is a free confidential information and referral service, ready to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week. United Way 211 helps connect individual and families to community resources and the services they need, such as utility or rent assistance, food and clothing, counseling, and much more. Just dial 211 or toll free 866-469-2211. From a cell phone or pay phone, please dial 319-739-4211.

Rent, Mortgage Interest or Utility Assistance

Waypoint is acting as the centralized intake for rent and utility assistance throughout the community. It is best to contact Waypoint Services at 319-365-1458 or 319-366-7999 to assess eligibility for all rent and utility assistance sources that are now available in the community as a result of COVID-19.

In Marion, if a customer cannot pay their City of Marion utility bill by the due date they can make one request per billing cycle for a time extension to make the payment. This request can be made in person or by phone 319-743-6310. There are options available if you need assistance paying your utility bill. Here's a list of program contacts/addresses.

Other Programs available to Linn County Residents

Linn County General Assistance serves individuals and families in Linn County who are experiencing a financial crisis. Up to $450 of assistance can be provided for rent or mortgage interest, utility bills (water, electricity, gas) and up to $1,000 for burial assistance. General Assistance can assist temporarily or provide ongoing assistance depending on the situation.

In addition, the Linn County Community Resources Committee engages with more than 30 different organizations and annually reviews and updates 22 different community resource sheets.

Affordable Connectivity Program

The Affordable Connectivity Program is an FCC benefit program that helps ensure that households can afford the broadband they need for work, school, healthcare and more. The Affordable Connectivity Program is limited to one, monthly $30 internet service discount for eligible households and one, one-time device discount of $100 per household.

Rental Assistance Program

The Cedar Rapids Housing Services Office administers the Section 8 program in Marion, which is federally funded by the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD). This program is designed to accommodate low-income families and individuals with rent assistance for decent, safe and sanitary housing provided by private owners and rental agents.

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