Services
Q: What is the first step to fleeing domestic abuse?
A: Anyone in a domestic abuse situation can access help by always calling 9-1-1 if you are in immediate danger. You may also calling a 24 Hour Crisis Hotline , which are a gateway for Survivors who are experiencing abuse, unsure if what you're going through is abuse, if you are wanting to leave and don't know what to do, or how to flee. All calls are confidential and answered by trained , mandated reporting Advocates who are ready and available to answer your call day and night. You may also access other online emergency resources such as our SafeHousingNow mobile app to access immediate emergency shelter in your local area. Remember, you are not alone and all these resources are safe spaces for Survivors who are seeking to flee to be free.
Q: What happens when I arrive at a Safe Shelter?
A: When you arrive you will be welcomed by an in-house shelter Advocate who will conduct a "needs" assessment , provide you a tour of the shelters common shared areas such as kitchen, bathrooms, laundry, etc, and your assigned living space. The shelter Advocate will help you settle in and make sure you are provided any necessary items based off of your initial needs assessment( clothes, toiletries, diapers, etc) to ensure you experience a comfortable stay.
Legal Assistance
Legal Services offered to Survivors are free and accessible in the following areas: child custody, TROs (Temporary Restraining Order), RO (Restraining Order), PO (Protective Order), Immigration matters, unemployment compensation, financial and/or housing issues, and other limited related issues,
Counseling/therapy
Professional counseling is provided to victims of domestic violence. through varies methods such as:Individual and group counseling is available for men, women, teens and children. Crisis intervention, crisis counseling and assessments are provided to those seeking support
Transportation
Most shelters will provide transportation to and from supportive services, appointments , or to other long term housing facilities if needed.
Childcare
Generally, every shelter will have advocates onsite who are there to assess and assist every Survivor with information and resources according to your needs. They are also mandated reporters of child abuse, so it your responsibility to supervise and care for your children at all times.
Employment
Earn of the various ways onsite advocates within a shelter can assist you by providing an assessment to help you achieve your employment/career goals which will create a life of sustainability and self-sufficiency for yourself and your family.
Medical Providers
Most shelters have advocates who will help you learn about all your health plan options including: Medicaid, Employer-Sponsored Insurance, Marketplace Insurance, Other government programs, The Affordable Care Act
