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childcare

Child Care Resources
(Posted on 10/18/2007)
Child Care Resource & Referral of Southwest Iowa (CCR&R) is a non-profit organization that helps people who care for and about children. CCR&R provides referrals, resources, education and advocacy to help meet your community’s need for affordable and accessible child care. We charge a small registration fee for some classes. All other services are free. Because your needs are unique, we tailor our services to your specific needs rather than a one-size-fits-all solution. We provide guidance by phone, in person, on the internet and in other ways. We offer the following services:

new homebuyer

New Online Homebuyer Education Course Launched
(Posted on 7/5/2007)
As of May 2007, USDA Rural Development requires first-time homebuyers to complete education from a certified provider to qualify for the agency’s rural housing loans. Often rural residents have to drive many miles to attend homebuyer classes. The online course will be a convenient option for many Iowa residents.

eXtension-logo

Check out whats new in eXtension!
(Posted on 3/8/2007)
eXTENSION LAUNCHES FINANCIAL SECURITY FOR ALL TO PUBLIC

News from Iowa State University Extension

Protect Rural Wells from Flooding
(Posted on 10/7/2008)
Many older wells in Iowa are located inside subsurface frost pits which are at risk from floods. Coliforms can enter wells through the wellheads when they are submerged – a situation that occurred more frequently than normal in Iowa this year due to widespread flooding and saturated soils.
Rebuild or Relocate? Conference Covers Neighborhood, Community Issues after a Flood
(Posted on 10/3/2008)
The last of four Iowa State University Extension online conferences on flood cleanup and rebuilding issues is Wednesday, Oct. 8, from 7 to 8:30 p.m.
Heat Your Home Safely after the Iowa Floods
(Posted on 10/2/2008)
Until their flood-damaged central heating systems are replaced, some Iowans may be tempted to use unconventional means to heat their homes. ISU Extension Housing Engineer Tom Greiner explains the health and safety risks of using unvented space heaters.
4-H Quilt Shows How Life Can Change for Parkersburg Youth
(Posted on 9/29/2008)
close-up of quiltLaura Edeker was working on her 4-H quilt in Clarksville, so she and her family weren't home in Parkersburg when the tornado destroyed their home.
Preserving Your Bounty -- Jams and Jellies
(Posted on 9/24/2008)
Jelly, jams and preserves are all made from fresh fruit that has been processed to form a firm gel when cooled. The mechanism for the firm gel involves the plant material pectin, which is the glue that sticks plant cells together. The sugar content of jellies, jams and preserves is the reason we can use a low temperature preservation technique such as boiling water baths.
Strengthen Relationships through Stressful Times
(Posted on 9/19/2008)
Whether it’s a fall hurricane in Texas or a summer flood in Iowa, the stress of a natural disaster can strain relationships. An ISU Extension specialist offers tips for strengthening relationships in stressful times.
Use Garbage Disposals Sparingly
(Posted on 9/18/2008)
Garbage disposals offer convenient processing and disposal of soft food scraps, but they should be used sparingly in homes with private septic systems. Why? Consider where those food particles go.

Staff

Patricia Anderson-Nutrition and Health Field Specialist
Phone: (712) 366-7070
Fax: (712) 366-7024
Email: pander@iastate.edu

Mary Beth Kaufman-Family Resource Management Field Specialist
Phone: (712) 755-3104
Fax: (712) 755-7112
Email: mbkaufman@iastate.edu

Mary Hughes-Family Life Field Specialist
Phone: (712) 366-7070
Fax: (712) 366-7024
Email: mhughes@iastate.edu

Resources from ISU Extension