Family Promise of Linn County to hold open house, ribbon-cutting event Tuesday

CEDAR RAPIDS – On Tuesday from 9 to 11 a.m., Family Promise of Linn County (FPLC) will host an open house event at its office at 610 31st St. SE that will showcase recently completed shelter renovation projects. The public is invited to come celebrate with the non-profit and other community members who want to help support local families facing homelessness.

At 9:30 a.m., ambassadors from the Cedar Rapids Economic Alliance will hold a ribbon cutting ceremony. Tours will be provided, along with complimentary coffee and refreshments. Attendees are encouraged to bring a non-perishable breakfast food item to help stock the free pantry that provides grab-and-go meals for families in need.

According to FPLC 2021 Annual Report, the non-profit directly helped 203 local families with their programs, a 186% increase from the previous year.

“We are fortunate to be able to expand our non-profit services and support to meet the needs of growing challenges many families face today,” said Nic Hartmann, Executive Director at FPLC. “In addition to providing shelter to homeless families, FPLC also wants to be an impactful and proactive resource to help families facing job loss, unexpected financial burdens such as home or car repairs, and possible eviction from their homes.”

In 2020, FPLC moved office locations to the basement at St. Stephens Church on 31st Street SE in Cedar Rapids. After completing renovations like installing a new onsite shower, FPLC now is able to comfortably house two families at a time in their own private lodging rooms, with access to a kitchen, dining, laundry and bathroom. Faith-based communities are still able to serve as overflow shelters if needed.

“Having an onsite shelter allows our staff members to be more present and available helping families, as well as providing more stability to children during a traumatic time,” said Jeanne Wampler, Board Chair at FPLC. “An onsite shelter now also grants our supportive faith-based communities to have more creative and flexible options in their involvement. Every child deserves a home, and we encourage other supporters to attend the FPLC Open House and learn more about how they can help be a part of the solution.”

FPLC is celebrating its 10th year as a nonprofit. The mission of FPLC is to help homeless and low-income families achieve sustainable independence through a community-based response.

For more details on the FPLC Open House & Ribbon Cutting event, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/1176393542765384