How to Find a Family Shelter

A family shelter is a place where parents can take their children in emergency situations, such as to escape a violent home. Family shelters provide services for both adults and children, including education, child care and legal support. Follow these steps to find a secure shelter.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Explain to your children why you must go to a family shelter. You may alleviate some of their fears if you tell them that a shelter isn't permanent and that you can still see family and friends.

2. Know how family shelters can help you. Most family shelters provide, or can help you find, legal advocates, educational resources, storage facilities and transitional housing.

3. Understand the limitations a family shelter. Many shelters will not accept residents with a history of substance abuse, pets or children over a certain age. In rare cases, a shelter may be unable to put you in contact with a victim's advocate who can help you press charges against your abuser.

4. Call your local police or sheriff's department to find a family shelter in your immediate area. Individuals who live in remote areas may need to drive to the nearest big city to find a suitable shelter.

5. Find your nearest YWCA. In addition to providing family shelter, the YWCA also offers child care before and after school so you can keep your job. Find your nearest shelter at the YWCA Web site (see the Resources section below).

6. Learn your legal options with the help of an advocate from the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (see Resources below). Your advocate can support you throughout your transitional process, inform you of your rights and walk you through the steps of pressing charges or obtaining a restraining order against your abuser.

Tips & Warnings

• If you press charges against your abuser, you have the right to full restitution under the law should he or she be found guilty.
• Being stuck in a domestic violence situation can have significant psychological effects on both you and your children. These effects, which include low self-esteem, depression and suicidal thoughts, can last for a long time. Speak with a licensed therapist to learn how to deal with your feelings. Ask the therapist if prescription medications can help balance your moods.
• Pay close attention to your children's emotional needs, too. Family shelters often offer counseling for children.

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