Our Recovery from The Iowa Flood of 2024
Help CAASA Rebuild & Support Survivors of Sexual Violence in Iowa
The Centers Against Abuse and Sexual Assault (CAASA), is a cornerstone non-profit combating sexual violence and providing vital services to survivors of assault and abuse. We help individuals from communities across 19 counties of Iowa, but we are facing the most significant challenge in our history. The devastating Iowa floods of 2024 that swept through Spencer, Iowa, severely damaged our headquarters, nearly crippling our operation.
CAASA's mission is to heal the wounds of sexual assault and abuse. Our organization offers comprehensive support services, including a 24/7 crisis hotline, advocacy services, counseling, and prevention education programs. In the aftermath of the flooding we have carried on, not turned away a single person requesting our assistance. However, we truly need the support of our fellow Iowans to rebuild and restore our capabilities to pre-flood levels.
The Impact of the 2024 Flood on CAASA
The floodwaters caused substantial damage to CAASA's headquarters, resulting in the loss of essential supplies, furniture, computers, and a brand-new truck. The estimated cost of repairs surpasses $500,000. This setback is particularly impactful considering CAASA's reliance on private donations, as we have chosen not to utilize FEMA disaster assistance for recovery. Federal disaster recovery funds require participating in the federal flood insurance program which would cost nearly as much as the damages we incurred in the flood.
How You Can Help CAASA Rebuild and Help Survivors
CAASA urgently needs your assistance to rebuild our headquarters and continue serving Buena Vista, Calhoun, Carroll, Cherokee, Clay, Crawford, Dickinson, Emmet, Ida, Lyon, Monona, O'Brien, Osceola, Palo Alto, Plymouth, Pocahontas, Sac, Sioux, and Woodbury Counties. We have refused to turn away people seeking our help during this difficult time, but we need help to continue to assist every survivor in our area who contacts us.
Here’s How You Can Help CAASA With Our Disaster Recovery:
- Charitable Donations: Your tax-deductible donation of any size will go a long way in aiding CAASA's recovery efforts. You can donate directly via the links on this and our Donate page, or contact our executive director for how to donate via check or cash
- Volunteer: If you have time and skills to contribute, consider volunteering your services to assist CAASA with continuing to serve the survivors of sexual abuse, or volunteer your time at our New Leaf thrift store in Cherokee. This store supplements our donations to help fund our programs. Contact us for volunteer opportunities near you.
- Spread Awareness: Raise awareness about CAASA's mission and current needs by sharing their story on social media and encouraging others to donate or volunteer.
Invest in a Safer Future for Northwest Iowa
By supporting CAASA through this challenging time, you're investing in creating safer communities in Iowa for you and the next generation. Your contribution will ensure that CAASA can continue to provide critical services that empower survivors, tackle human trafficking, and create the safer communities we all want.