DAVENPORT, Iowa — A local nonprofit in Davenport is working to provide a safe place for women and girls affected by domestic violence, but a recent theft is delaying their efforts.
Kinna's House of Love, founded in 2019, was in the process of completing a home that will eventually provide shelter for 10 to 12 women and girls who have faced domestic violence. But late Thursday night into Friday morning, $1,000 worth of wood intended to build the front porch of the shelter was stolen.
“We just try and help where we can. It’s really about domestic violence,” Founder Luekinna Hodges said. “A lot of women I see are forced into prostitution downtown, arms broken and bruised. I went through that, so this is why it's become my passion."
Hodges emphasizes the dire need for more housing options, especially for women and girls who are no longer eligible to stay in shelters.
“They’ll be safer here because at least they don’t have to sleep outside if they can’t get into a shelter that night. I’ve heard some horrific stories," Hodges said.
In addition to the theft, Hodges says she has faced other setbacks, including being ripped off by her first contractor. She is working with the Davenport Police Department to investigate both incidents.
Despite these challenges, Hodges remains hopeful.
“I believe it’s still going to happen, I just don’t know when,” she said.
Hodges is now asking the individuals who took the wood to return it so she can continue her mission to provide a safe haven for women in need.
The organization is always looking for volunteers. If interested, you can sign up here.
To donate to Kinna's House of Love, visit here.