For Immediate Release: Monday, Nov. 10, 2025
Media Contact: Zach Carlyle | zach.carlyle@iowa.gov | (515) 415-7235
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – The Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) recognized outstanding housing initiatives and leaders during the annual HousingIowa Awards, presented at the 2025 HousingIowa Conference in Cedar Rapids. Among this year’s honorees, Homes for Iowa, Inc., based in Newton, received the Single-Family Development Award for its innovative approach to tackling Iowa’s housing shortage.
Homes for Iowa’s unique model combines home construction, workforce development and community revitalization. Stick-built homes are constructed at the Newton Correctional Facility and distributed statewide, with a particular emphasis on supporting rural communities.
During the award presentation, Derrick, a program participant, shared his inspiring journey of becoming a licensed electrician through Homes for Iowa. A homeowner also spoke to the stability the program has brought to his family. Accepting the award before an audience of more than 500 housing professionals, Mike Norris praised the team’s efforts and the transformative impact of the program.
"Homes for Iowa was recognized as the 2025 Single-Family Project of the year at the Housing Iowa Conference," said HFI President Mike Norris. "Everyone is grateful for the recognition, which is the result of many years of work, diligence, and unbelievable partnerships. It's an important milestone in a longer journey to help address Iowa's housing shortage, reduce recidivism, and train the future members of our workforce."
The HousingIowa Awards are presented annually to recognize programs, projects and professionals that set the standard for innovation and leadership in advancing housing opportunities. Award categories include Single-Family Development, Multifamily Development, Innovation, Special Needs Development, the Mark Sertterh Friend of Housing Award and the Kay Anderson Friend of Iowa Award. Nominations are accepted statewide and judged by an independent panel.
-
About Homes for Iowa, Inc.
Homes for Iowa, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, addresses the state’s housing shortage by building high-quality modular homes while providing skilled trades training to incarcerated individuals—helping reduce recidivism and strengthen Iowa’s workforce while providing affordable homes statewide. This innovative public-private partnership with the Iowa Department of Corrections and Iowa Prison Industries operates out of the Newton Correctional Facility in Newton, IA. Since its first home delivery in 2020, Homes for Iowa has placed more than 120 homes across 51 counties. Homes can purchased directly from Homes for Iowa. Inc. and delivered to any of Iowa’s 99 counties.
-
About the Iowa Department of Corrections
The Iowa Department of Corrections is making significant strides to implement evidence-based practices system-wide that are proven to reduce victimization, reduce recidivism and enhance community safety. The IDOC is a nationally recognized leader in corrections for innovation and implementation of evidence-based practices. Being on the forefront of innovation and practice, the IDOC continues its commitment to be the best corrections system in the country.
| Follow the Iowa DOC on Social Media | |||
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
|
|
###