Johnson County Crisis Center

Donating/Opportunities For Giving

The Crisis Center is proud to be a United Way agency. We are also fortunate to receive funding from Johnson County, the Cities of Iowa City and Coralville, the University of Iowa Student Government, service clubs, area religious/spiritual organizations, and individuals.

As the need for the Crisis Center and Food Bank has grown, so has need for the private donations from local citizens and businesses. More than 60% of our financial support is from generous citizens, businesses, and groups. Here are a few ways to make a tax-deductible contribution to the Crisis Center.

Cash Donations

Cash Donations are essential to the Crisis Center. These important contributions ensure that our programs continue to help Johnson County residents in need. If desired, you can specify your contribution to the Crisis Intervention Program, Food Bank/Emergency Assistance Program or wherever the need is the greatest. Donations by cash or check are always appreciated and can be sent to 1121 Gilbert Court, Iowa City, Iowa 52240-4528.

Perishable & Non-Perishable Goods

Each year the Crisis Center/Food Bank distributes 3-5 tons of food every week, serving over 12,000 Johnson County residents this year. Food donations contribute to the success of the Food Bank Program. Throughout this website you can find the Top 10 Suggested Donations for Non-Perishable Goods. We also happily accept Perishable Food items such as Fresh Fruit, Vegetables, and Meats due to our Walk-In Refrigerator and Freezer. We are happy to accommodate large amounts of food donations, just call ahead at 319.351.0128 to ensure adequate volunteer support. Cash donations can be designated for the Food Bank and help us purchase large quantities of food items to keep our shelves stocked. All donations can be brought directly to the Crisis Center/Food Bank at 1121 Gilbert Court, Iowa City, Iowa 52240.

Honorary Gifts

Honor someone on a birthday, anniversary, holiday, or other special day. Make a contribution to the Crisis Center on your loved one’s behalf. Simply include the honored person’s name and information with the contribution and they will receive acknowledgement of your gift.

Planned Giving

Consider leaving your own legacy. Planned gifts to the Crisis Center can include bequests, charitable gift annuities, pooled income fund gifts, and charitable trusts. These gifts can be made with cash, appreciated securities, real estate, and more. If you have questions about planned giving, please contact, Aaron Schaefer at Hills Bank and Trust, 319.338.1522 or toll-free 800.899.8858

Things we cannot accept are Clothing and Furniture

We ask anyone interested in donating usable clothing to make those contributions to The Crowded Closet, located next to the Crisis Center or your area Goodwill Industry Drop-Off Location. Please indicate the clothes are on behalf of the Crisis Center. We have a voucher program in place with these organizations to assist individuals in need of free clothing. Unfortunately, we do not have storage space to accept furniture. These items can be placed with Goodwill Industries, Crowded Closet or The Furniture Project.

Events

Events are a great way for businesses or individuals to do get involved in their community and help the Crisis Center at the same time. Below are a few opportunities for sponsorship and involvement in Crisis Center Events. If you have an idea for an event, please contact Dawn Newbill at 319.351.2726.

Fund or Food Drives

Get your neighborhood or business involved in a Fund or Food Drive. Hold a bake sale, online auction, or canned food drive. Be creative, have fun and help those in need by participating this type of event. See the Programs page under Food Bank for more helpful hints and calendar for various Drives in your area.

Thanksgiving in July

Thanksgiving in July is an annual community-wide food drive benefiting the Crisis Center Food Bank. Food collected by area business and civic organizations throughout the month of July are to be brought to a central location at the end of July, culminating in a celebration, including fun activities and entertainment. So get going…. hold your own food drive with a picnic, dance, ball or bowling tournament, raffle, car wash, pop can sales or drop off boxes at work. Still need more ideas???? Contact the Crisis Center and we’d be happy to help, 319.351.2726.

Project Holiday

Project Holiday consists of four, local human service agencies who work together to provide a good holiday experience for the less fortunate in our community. The Crisis Center provides food baskets to all in need. The Visiting Nurse Association and Elder Services, Inc. purchase gift cards from local grocery and discount stores and distribute them to low-income elderly and adult disabled. The Salvation Army gives out toys to children from birth to age 15. This wonderful project is supported entirely by local donations. Please consider a contribution to the Project Holiday agency of your choice and help create a hope-filled holiday season for the low-income members of our community. Contact the Crisis Center at 319.351.2726 for more information.

What’s in your Heart:

Seeing pink hearts? Pick up one at your favorite participating stores during the month of February and send it to the Crisis Center at 1121 S. Gilbert Court, Iowa City, Iowa 52240. While shopping for a gift for someone special you will also help feed those in need in Johnson County. Don’t see hearts in your favorite store? Encourage them to become a sponsor or give us a call at 319.351.2726.

Crisis Center Week

Join us in celebrating Crisis Center Week in the spring (typically April or May). Our Annual Gourmet Pancake Breakfast being the premier event. Business and individuals can become sponsors depending on their level of contribution. All sponsors will appear on the Pancake Breakfast Placemats seen by over 1000 community attendees! You can also purchase tickets for this event several weeks in advance. Don’t miss out…this yummy event has often been touted the "The Best Breakfast in Town." Is your business or organization involved? If not, check out the Sponsorship levels below and contact Dawn Newbill at 319.351.2726 to become Crisis Center Week Sponsor today!

2007 Crisis Center Week Sponsorships

Crisis Center Corporate Sponsors:
$1000+
Crisis Center Week Patrons:
$600-$999
Crisis Center Week Partners:
$300-$599
Crisis Center Week Friends:
$150-$299
Crisis Center Week Contributors:
$50-$149

Did you know???

Area residents contribute more than $700,000 each year in donated goods and volunteer services. Contributions are vital to the Crisis Center’s ability to help others. Please join your neighbors and donate to the Crisis Center today!