Crisis Intervention Services (CIS) wrapped up an annual effort to brighten the holidays for its clients. More than 70 survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence and other violent crimes received gift bundles and gift cards to local stores. Donors across CIS’s 12-county service region helped make the joy happen.

The effort was another opportunity for the community to help survivors move forward after their trauma, said Sarah Champoux, the agency’s executive director. The holidays don’t make the healing any easier, especially when many are struggling to provide for their families, Champoux added.

Crisis Intervention Services works to end sexual assault and domestic violence through support, emergency safe housing, counseling, and prevention through education. CIS services are free,

voluntary, and confidential for survivors of domestic abuse, sexual assault and other violent crimes. Services are provided in Appanoose, Davis, Jasper, Jefferson, Keokuk, Lucas, Mahaska, Marion, Monroe, Poweshiek, Wapello and Wayne counties.