Domestic Violence Services & Resources

24/7 confidential support from trained advocates who speak 200+ languages. They help you create a safety plan, find local shelters, understand your legal options, and connect you to resources — all without judgment. You don't have to be ready to leave to call. You can call just to talk, ask questions, or figure out your next step. They have helped millions of survivors. Chat option available if you can't speak safely.

📞 800-799-7233

Search for domestic violence shelters by ZIP code — confidential locations in every state. Most shelters provide free beds, meals, clothing, and case management for you AND your children. Length of stay ranges from 30 to 90 days, and many help you transition to permanent housing. You don't need ID, money, or a plan — just show up or call. If the nearest shelter is full, they will help you find another one. Pets accepted at many locations.

📞 800-799-7233

A step-by-step plan for leaving safely — or for staying safer until you're ready to leave. Covers: what documents to gather (IDs, birth certificates, medications), where to hide emergency cash, how to leave without being followed, what to tell your children, who to call first, and how to protect yourself digitally. The National DV Hotline walks you through creating YOUR personalized plan. Having a plan can save your life.

📞 800-799-7233

State-by-state legal information written in plain English — protective orders, divorce, child custody, immigration options (U Visa, VAWA), and how to navigate the court system as a survivor. Also offers a FREE email hotline where attorneys answer your specific legal questions within 1–2 business days. Available in English and Spanish. You do NOT need a lawyer to file a protective order — WomensLaw shows you how to do it yourself.

📞 womenslaw.org

Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network — the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization. 24/7 hotline and live chat with trained support specialists who help you process what happened, find local services, and understand your reporting options (you are NOT required to report). Connects you to local rape crisis centers for free counseling. Also provides support for survivors of childhood sexual abuse and intimate partner sexual violence.

📞 800-656-4673

You can get an emergency protective order (EPO) the SAME DAY in most states — often within hours. It legally orders your abuser to stay away from you, your home, your workplace, and your children. Filing is FREE — no attorney needed. Court clerks and DV advocates can help you fill out the paperwork. Violating a protective order is a crime and your abuser can be arrested. Even if you've been denied before, you can file again with new evidence.

📞 Dial 2-1-1

State programs that give you a SUBSTITUTE ADDRESS so your abuser cannot find you through public records — DMV, voter registration, court filings, school records, and more. All mail is forwarded to you at a secret location. Available in most states and completely free. Essential if you are fleeing and worried about being found. Ask the DV hotline or your local shelter about your state's program.

📞 800-799-7233

If you need to leave but are terrified about your children's safety during the transition — Safe Families provides temporary, loving homes for your children while you escape and stabilize. This is completely voluntary — NO child welfare or CPS involvement. Host families are vetted, background-checked volunteers. Your children are returned to you as soon as you're safe and stable. Available in communities across the US.

📞 312-492-3060

Domestic violence survivors often qualify for expedited benefits — cash assistance (TANF) within days and food stamps (SNAP) within 7 days. Many states have special DV provisions that fast-track your application and waive certain requirements. You don't need to have filed a police report. Tell the benefits office you are fleeing domestic violence — they are trained to help. These benefits can keep you and your children fed and housed while you rebuild.

📞 Dial 2-1-1

Abusers often use technology to track, monitor, and control victims — GPS tracking, stalkerware apps, shared phone plans, social media monitoring, and smart home devices. The National Network to End DV has a complete guide to securing your phone, computer, accounts, and location. Learn how to detect stalkerware, create new accounts safely, get a new phone without your abuser knowing, and protect your children's devices too.

📞 nnedv.org

Undocumented survivors of domestic violence may qualify for a U Visa — which provides legal immigration status, work authorization, and a path to a green card. You must have suffered substantial abuse and be willing to help law enforcement (but you do NOT have to have called the police at the time of the abuse). Your abuser cannot use your immigration status to control you. VAWA Self-Petition is another option if married to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Consult a free immigration attorney through the DV hotline.

📞 800-799-7233

Specifically for teens and young adults (ages 13–26) experiencing dating violence, controlling relationships, or sexual abuse. Peer advocates who understand your world — school, social media, friend groups, and family dynamics. Call, text, or chat 24/7. Also offers a free 'Is My Relationship Healthy?' quiz to help you understand what you're experiencing. 1 in 3 teens will experience dating violence — you are not alone and it is not your fault.

📞 866-331-9474