October 4, 2023 – Des Moines, IA – October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Children & Families of Iowa (CFI) continues to provide safe shelter for those fleeing abusive relationships 365 days a year, 24 hours a day.
The Domestic Violence Services are based out of CFI’s Shelter, a 62-bed facility offering safe shelter to individuals of any gender and all ages. Services include a local, toll-free crisis line staffed by certified domestic abuse advocates 24 hours a day; housing assistance in the form of rental and utility assistance for individuals building a new life after the trauma of abuse; outreach, advocacy, and education for survivors and the community in general. Additional services available include support groups and individual therapy services.
Children & Families of Iowa helped 4,169 individuals trying to escape the dangers of domestic violence last fiscal year alone. Safe shelter was provided to 496 individuals; of those, 194 were children.
Domestic violence affects women, children, and men of every ethnic background and socioeconomic standing. Historically, CFI has served individuals and families with high-stress levels, directly impacting their mental and physical health and safety.
Clients seeking safety at CFI’s Domestic Violence Shelter often have to leave everything they own behind, including basic necessities. These goods include client-specific items such as employment uniforms, transportation personal care products, toys for children, baby formula and diapering supplies, bedding, and more. The shelter works to provide all of these resources, along with nutritious meals for victims.
Children & Families of Iowa has several events planned during the month of October. We encourage our community to attend these events. Awareness of Domestic Violence is the first step in ending domestic violence.
Domestic Violence Kick-Off
October 7
11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Children & Families of Iowa
1111 University Ave.
Des Moines, Iowa 50314
Join us in celebration as we Kick Off Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Ronnie Cyrus-Jackson, author of Unmasking The Hurt, will have a presentation and a book signing.
#Every1KnowsSome1
Teen Summit on Intimate Partner Violence (IPV)
October 14
10:30 am – 3:00 pm
Grand View University
2811 East 14th St.
Des Moines, Iowa 50316
Are you a teen or a parent looking to learn more about healthy relationships? If so, we have got the perfect event for you! Join us for an awareness event on Domestic Violence designed specifically for teens and parents. Our goal is to increase awareness of DV and promote healthy relationships throughout the teen years and beyond. The event will feature a Resource Fair where you can connect and learn more about the resources available to you. Take advantage of this opportunity to learn, grow, and positively impact your relationships.
#Every1KnowsSome1
Iowa Legal Aid – Trick or Tax
October 17
5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Children & Families of Iowa
1111 University Ave.
Des Moines, Iowa 50314
Come say BOO to tax issues and learn how Iowa’s Legal Aid’s community schools project and taxpayer clinic may be able to help you combat tax monsters such as: rejected tax returns, improperly claimed children, and audit notices. Learn about tax-specific information and tips for survivors of domestic abuse.
#Every1KnowsSome1
Candle Light Vigil
October 19
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
St. John’s Lutheran Church
600 6th Ave.
Des Moines, Iowa
Join us for an evening of remembrance and togetherness as we come together for a candlelight vigil honoring victims of domestic violence. This event is a time to reflect, mourn, and celebrate the lives of those we have lost to domestic violence. The flickering of the candles creates a peaceful and calming atmosphere, and the soft glow illuminates the faces of those around us, reminding us that we are not alone in the fight against domestic violence. Whether you are looking to honor the memory of a loved one or just seeking a moment of solidarity, we invite you to join us. All are welcome, and we hope to see you there.
#Every1KnowsSome1
