Who is Cedar Valley Friends of the Family

Who is Cedar Valley Friends of the Family?

Beginning in 1992, Cedar Valley Friends of the Family (CVFF) was founded by Church Women United to provide victim services to the people of Bremer and Butler counties. Since then, they have continued to grow their staff, launch efforts and fundraisers, built a crisis shelter and facilities, and begin programs that provide education and relief surrounding domestic abuse, domestic violence, child abuse, sexual abuse, and sexual violence.

What do they do?

CVFF provides programs and a shelter for those needing relief from domestic and sexual violence or abuse. They provide an emergency shelter in 14 counties in NE Iowa. Their crisis line is is staffed 24 hours a day, 365 days a year with certified advocates and is available to respond to crisis housing needs and immediate safety concerns for victims of domestic and sexual violence, as well as to provide information and referral to community resources.

It is their goal that some day we can live in a world free of violence. They deliver numerous prevention programs in Bremer, Butler, and Chickasaw Counties, and provide this education to school-aged children, adults, and athletic teams.

CVFF also offers assistance in obtaining and maintaining housing for those who are homeless or at-risk of becoming homeless due to domestic or sexual violence. 

How do they help adults and/or children gain the knowledge, skills, and ability to manage finances?

Their staff assists clients with creating safety plans, identifying and overcoming barriers to housing and unemployment, connecting with supportive community resources, and developing budgets and financial literacy skills to break the cycle and help others become financially independent.

Why is financial literacy important?

Learning how to take control of your finances creates self-sustainability and self-sufficiency, which creates stable families.

"Our violence prevention programs are educating thousands of youth and adults on how they can prevent violence. Our housing programs help homeless families and individuals achieve independence and stability. And our emergency shelter program helps victims of violent crime achieve safety and an independent life, free from abuse." - CVFF