New programs were created to help families in Clarinda. | Pixabay
New programs were created to help families in Clarinda. | Pixabay
A nonprofit that originated in the Clarinda area has launched a fundraising campaign for family-based programs for children and parents.
Southwest Iowa Families, a group of therapists that provide mental health services for families, recently purchased a large plot of land located at 117 West Main Street in Clarinda with plans of constructing a $2.2 million Child & Family Center.
Clinical Director Bernie Wagoner said organization board members began preparatory conversations about the new facility almost two years ago.
"At that point in time, we were beginning to stretch the capacity of the building in a fairly significant way," Wagoner told KMA News. "We had staff that were doubled up in offices. In fact, we have one office that's shared by four different staff people. We were having problems with double-booking the rooms that we use for therapy here in the office."
Wagoner said the nonprofit offers numerous services.
"We have mental health services. We are also involved in support services for children who are at risk of abuse and neglect. We provide a lot of direct supports by things like the Kindness Closet or Crime Victims' assistance. Right now, we're involved in some COVID victim support services. We've just got a lot of things going on here at the agency," Wagoner said.
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