Families Helping Families of Iowa (FHF) is a non-profit organization designed to help and support children in foster care. Our vision is to create positive opportunities, relationships, and better overall health for youth in our state who have been removed from their home.
FHF was founded in 2004 with $100 and a vision. In 2006, Families Helping Families of Iowa was able to secure 501(c)3 nonprofit status and incorporation.
Our Mission
We are a unique nonprofit organization offering programs and services designed specifically to help Iowa’s foster care children and the families that care for them.
We serve children in foster care in all 99 Iowa counties.However, most requests for support come from foster families caring for children in the Cedar Rapids–Iowa City corridor. These children represent diverse racial and socioeconomic backgrounds and are often underserved in our community. The need for our services in these areas was identified by individuals with direct experience in the foster care system, including many of our board members and volunteers. We know, firsthand, the lack of resources available to this demographic, and we are committed to providing them our support.
Our Needs
The average foster child moves seven times before the age of 18, usually abruptly leaving their home with very few personal belongings. Our programs and services offered at Families Helping Families help make these difficult transitions more bearable.
Currently, there are over 3,000 children in foster care in the state of Iowa. Families Helping Families of Iowa exists to provide financial support and various other services for these children and youth in foster care.
Our Support & Growth
Today, with the help of many dedicated volunteers and community partnerships, Families Helping Families of Iowa is fulfilling the needs of foster children. We are a resource to the foster care community, providing access to essential items such as clothes, shoes, hygiene supplies, school supplies, and more.
With our help, foster children in Iowa are gaining access to more resources and opportunities. From our Clothing Closet to our tutoring program, Families Helping Families of Iowa is dedicated to continuing our mission of “Caring for Iowa’s Children in Foster Care.”
Financial Information
501(c)(3) Letter of Determination
Annual Reports
Fiscal Year 2026 – coming soon
