Who is Children & Families of Iowa?

Who is the Children & Families of Iowa?

Since 1888, Children & Families of Iowa (CFI) is one of the top family services organizations in Iowa. For more than 125 years, they have been offering hope and a helping hand to families in need, and an opportunity to change lives and build a better future for those in crisis. As one of Iowa's most well-respected family service providers, CFI served more than 25,600 people last year.

What do they do?

Through their programs and services, CFI helps everyone from children who need a safe home to adults learning to cope with trauma. CFI provides services to those who are struggling with everyday life through five program areas:

• Domestic Violence Services
• Teen programs
• Mental Health Services
• Early Childhood Development services
• Family Support programs

How do they enhance our community?

90 % of CFI's clients live in poverty. Among the children CFI serves, many come from single parent households, teenage or incarcerated parents, have special mental health needs, experience abuse, maltreatment, neglect, domestic violence, or homelessness. CFI has been recognized for their outstanding service to the community. Holding dozens of contracts with the state and counties, and being a United Way partner ensures they are held to high standards in delivering the highest level of care. All of their programs are accredited or licensed, and some offer services unique in Iowa.

"We have grown by adhering to one basic principle: every child, every family, deserves to be safe." - Children & Families of Iowa.

Why is financial literacy important?

CFI's goal is for all clients to become independent and self-sufficient. When many of the clients are coming from a low-income background and have little or no experience, financial education is critical. CFI provides payee services, and educates clients on budgeting, credit, and savings plans. Financial literacy education is designed to increase knowledge in budgeting, saving, and debt management, connect with community resources, and move families closer to financial self-sufficiency to improve their quality of life.