Souper Bowl Fundraiser Being Held for Iowa Domestic Abuse Victims

Although the "big game" it's themed after will be long past by the time the event takes place, the "Souper Bowl" is scheduled for February 24. The annual event is put on by the Domestic Violence Intervention program and is held to raise funds, resources, and awareness toward domestic violence issues and for "victims of intimate partner violence, human trafficking, stalking, and harassment in the eight southeastern Iowa counties that DVIP serves."

The timing isn't a coincidence

They schedule it every year near the Super Bowl on purpose. DVIP Executive Director Kristie Fortmann-Doser told the Cedar Rapids Gazette that more violence against women occurs near that time than any other. Violence against women, men, and children happen every day. 1 in 4 women, 1 in 7 men, and 1 in 15 children will be affected by intimate partner abuse in their lifetime.

How does it work?

The event simply involves you buying a variety of soups from 15 area restaurants and there are several different options for purchase::

• General Souper Bowl ticket: $30

(2) 8oz cups of soup and 1 mug

• Family of 4 package: $75

(5) 8oz cups soups and 2 mugs

•  VIP Package: $100

(5) 8oz cups of soup with 2 mugs, 2 Big Grove Beer Tokens, and special gifts.

• 12 and up/Student: $15

(1) 8oz cup of soup and no mug

• 12 and under: Free

(1) 8oz cup of soup and no mug

Tickets will be available starting this Friday, January 7 through February 10. Then, on Thursday, February 24, visit Big Grove Brewery at 1225 S. Gilbert St. in Iowa City from 2-6 p.m. for the in-person event. Other options include drive-through or carry-out at Big Grove. "Come pick up your soup, and if you would like, stay a bit to socialize safely with fellow ticket holders, DVIP Board of Directors, volunteers, and staff."

Delivery is also available for the duration of the event, but only for those within a 15-mile radius of Big Grove. Learn more at the DVIP website.