Des Moines, Iowa – After a tour through Children & Families of Iowa’s (CFI) Domestic Violence Shelter uncovered a great need for suitcases and duffle bags, Mary Sellers, United Way of Central Iowa President, put a call out to loyal donors to help fulfill that need.
Wells Fargo answered that call. After putting the word out on the need for gently used luggage, they received 54 suitcases, 59 duffle bags and six purses. “This luggage will be used by victims of domestic violence as they prepare to leave our shelter,” says Catherine Reaman-Gerdes, CFI’s Domestic Violence Services Supervisor. “Victims of domestic violence often have very little when starting out on their own, so we try to provide them with some basic necessities and clothing. The luggage will help tremendously when transporting their belongings.”
In addition, Central Financial Group held a suitcase drive, donating 15 suitcases and Iowa Bankers is expected to deliver a donation in the near future. For now, the need for luggage has been met and CFI is very grateful to everyone who helped by donating gently used luggage, as well as the volunteers who helped organize the drives. For those who are interested in donating items for the women and children at the shelter, there is always a need for personal care items and baby supplies.
