Holiday gifts support survivors of violence

Crisis Intervention Services

OSKALOOSA – Crisis Intervention Services is making the holidays brighter and safer for survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence and violent crimes. CIS will provide gift cards to survivors and their families to help them buy toys, clothing, food and other items. The agency serves clients across 12 counties in southern Iowa.

“Our annual holiday giving effort takes on special meaning this year because the pandemic creates new challenges for CIS and the people we serve,” explains Sondra Prochaska, executive director of CIS. “With people spending more time at home, the potential is great for interpersonal violence to increase. At the same time, survivors and families are struggling more financially. We want to bring them some hope and also find creative ways to keep people safe.”

CIS is accepting gift cards from stores in its service area, including Casey’s, Fareway, HyVee, Target and Walmart, as well as gift cards from Visa, Amazon and other online retailers. The agency’s advocates will distribute them to survivors, providing them the dignity that comes with personal shopping choices, Prochaska says. CIS also is accepting monetary donations, with which it will buy more gift cards.

The effort is a shift from a traditional approach of giving wrapped gifts to families served by CIS shelter and advocacy teams. It expands on a legacy of support from churches and individuals, Prochaska says.

“While it’s a joy to share presents with families, it’s safer and simpler this year to provide gift cards,” she says. “We hope people will support us and everyone we serve!”

Gift cards or money, in any amount, can be mailed to Pat Finan at Crisis Intervention Services, 207 A Ave. East, Oskaloosa, IA 52577. Donations also can be made online at www.stopdvsa.org. Donations are preferred by Dec. 7 but will be accepted throughout the holiday season.