Frequently Asked Questions

Question: I want help, so what happens next?
Answer: Clients enter the domestic violence shelter by calling the 24-hour hotline. The shelter serves battered, substance addicted women and their children. We also serve battered women with no history of substance abuse/dependence on a case-by-case basis.

Question: Will the shelter automatically accept me into the shelter when I call?
Answer: Each caller is asked to complete a screening interview by telephone to determine eligibility for shelter services. Please make sure you are in a safe place when you call. You must be able to talk for at least 20-30 minutes without any interruptions. We do not advise you to call from a telephone or place where your abuser can see what numbers you have called or where your abusive partner can walk in on you while you are on the telephone. To ensure your safety, we suggest you go to a police department or other location where you can make the call to our hotline safely.

Question: Once I am accepted into the shelter program how will I know where to go?
Answer: The hotline advocate will give you instructions regarding where to go next. We want to keep the location of the shelter secret, so you will not be told where to go until you are accepted into the shelter program.

Question: What happens once I am at the shelter?
Answer: Once you enter the shelter, you will participate in an intake interview, receive emergency clothing, meet with a shelter advocate, and complete a safety plan within 24-hours of admission.

Question: What if my children and I left without any clothes or formula?
Answer: Please do not try to return home to retrieve clothes. The shelter will provide you with emergency clothing, shoes, and formula until you can apply for financial assistance and/or WIC.

Question: What happens after the 45-day period?
Answer: Shelter staff will assist you with applying for 2nd step services. 2nd step services can include treatment or transitional housing depending on the needs of your family.