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working to end domestic violence in our community |
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Gifts that give back… |
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* Know the Shelter hotline number: (434) 293-8509. * Don't get trapped in kitchen or bathroom. * Plan an escape route--know a safe place to go. * Take your children with you. * Have an extra car key and have cash hidden in car for emergency use. * Gather important papers and phone numbers. Store them with a friend or neighbor. * Tell a neighbor about your partner's violent behavior. Arrange a signal so police can be called if needed. * If all else fails and you cannot escape, pretend to faint. It may stop the attack. |
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Domestic violence is a pattern of physically, sexually and/or emotionally abusive behaviors used by one individual to maintain power over or to control a partner in the context of an intimate or family relationship. Domestic violence crosses all racial, age, gender, socioeconomic, education and religious boundaries, and does occur in both traditional and nontraditional relationships. |
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Every relationship is different, as are the reasons a victim may stay in a relationship. Survivors may have been threatened with violence if they leave. Many victims hope their partner may change, or they may be financially dependent or don't want to disrupt the lives of their children. Religious beliefs or embarrassment may prevent a victim from seeking assistance. On average, a survivor leaves a relationship 7-12 times before being able to leave on a permanent basis. |
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Why does someone stay with a violent partner? |
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Children who witness domestic violence may exhibit the following: acting out, withdrawing, low self-esteem, depression, alcohol or drug use and early sexual relationships. Children learn that violence is an acceptable way to solve problems, and are at high risk of becoming victims or batterers themselves. |
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What about the children? |
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At the Shelter, experienced staff and trained volunteers listen without judging. Victims are given the space and support they need to make decisions for themselves. Since opening its doors in 1979, the Shelter for Help in Emergency has provided shelter for more than 250 people each year, many of them children. Click here for more information on Shelter Services. |
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How does the Shelter help? |
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You are not alone. Consider calling the Shelter's 24-hour confidential hotline: 434-293-8509 V/TTY. Calling the hotline does not obligate you to make any immediate decisions; it is simply a safe, confidential place to get support. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. |
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If you are a victim of domestic violence, remember: |
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P.O. Box 3013 University Station Charlottesville, VA 22903-0013 |
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If you are in need of assistance, please call our 24-hour hotline at: (434) 293-8509 V/TTY Collect calls accepted If this is an emergency, please call 911 Si esto es una emergencia, llama por favor 911 |
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What is Domestic Violence | Safety Planning | Shelter Services | Shelter Activities | Ways You Can Help | Links to Community Resources | Links to Domestic Violence Resources |
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NOTE If you are visiting this site and don't want anyone else who uses your computer to know that you were here, Please click here. |
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Silent Witness--a memorial to victims |
