Power when It Matters Most!

Severe weather and power outages are an increasingly unavoidable reality in Iowa. While Hills & Dales has a strong emergency plan and two small portable generators, we still lack a building-wide backup generator at our Residential Center—something now standard in healthcare facilities.

For the 59 children and adults who rely on our 24-hour care, losing power is much more than an inconvenience. Essential equipment and daily needs depend on electricity, including lifts, communication devices, feeding pumps, suctioning machines, pharmacy orders, and even meal preparation. Our portable units cannot provide the level of power required to keep everyone safe in a prolonged outage.

We were reminded of this vulnerability during the 2020 derecho, when power was lost for hours. Thankfully it was restored before residents were endangered or forced to relocate. However, storm patterns tell us the next outage is inevitable, and we must be ready.

A permanent generator will not only protect current residents—it will allow us to responsibly expand care for individuals with more complex medical needs, including powered ventilation systems, and finally say “yes” to families we are unable to serve today.

We are working to raise $125,000 to install this critical system before spring storms arrive. Every gift, big or small, will make a meaningful difference for the individuals who call Hills & Dales home.

Your generosity will quite literally help power safety, stability, and expanded care when it matters most. Thank you for your consideration and for being the steady power behind our mission.