Family Promise of Linn County began in 2010 as an idea for how local faith communities could come together to help our neighbors in need. Cedar Rapids and the surrounding area was still reeling from the effects of the 2008 flood and homelessness was on the rise.

A volunteer team worked tirelessly — with the guidance of the national office for Family Promise — to make Family Promise of Linn County a reality. We began serving families in January of 2013. In the first three years of operation alone, 61 families, including over 100 children were cared for and lifted up on their paths to achieve sustainable independence. 

Teaming with the faith community, Family Promise provides warm and welcoming place for families to call home while they get back on their feet and into stable housing. A centrally located Day Center provides showers, laundry and a place for parents to look for jobs and housing. A dedicated board of directors oversees and manages the program, providing support to its staff. We have the capacity to serve up to three families at a time in our shelter program.

In 2020, FPLC began its Prevention, Diversion and Stability program. That same year, we also began serving guests in Benton County, and have since served families in six Iowa counties and (through collaboration with other FP affiliates) three states.