Domestic & Sexual Violence

We provide free, confidential, survivor-informed support tailored to each person’s needs, goals, and circumstances.

Services may include:

• • • emotional support
    • safety planning
    • information about options and resources
    • assistance navigating legal and criminal justice systems
    • support with housing and financial needs
    • connections to community resources
    • help accessing medical or other services
    • accompaniment to appointments or court proceedings
    • support for family members or loved ones.

We do not make decisions for you. We’ll provide information, support, and encouragement so you can make choices that are right for you.

No. We support people at all stages, not only during emergencies. Whether you need immediate safety planning, have questions about your situation, or want support preparing for the future, we are available to help.

Yes. Violence impacts families in many ways. We can provide support, resources, and information for children, caregivers, and loved ones who are impacted by domestic or sexual violence.

Yes. You do not have to be sure how to describe your experience or use a specific label to receive support. We understand that every person’s situation is different and can help you talk through what happened, answer questions, and explore options based on what feels right for you.

That is ok. Many people reach out because they have questions or feel overwhelmed. We can help you sort through your options, provide information, and connect you with resources based on your situation and what feels most important to you.

Protective orders can feel overwhelming. We are available to help you understand your options and navigate the process. We can provide information about different types of protective orders, help you understand what to expect, assist with safety planning, connect you with legal resources when needed, and provide support throughout the process. We cannot provide legal advice or guarantee an outcome, but we can help you access information and resources so you can make informed decisions that are right for you.

No. You do not have to make a report or participate in the legal system to receive advocacy services. We can provide information about reporting, legal options, and available resources so you can make informed decisions when you are ready.

Yes. We follow strict confidentiality guidelines designed to protect your privacy and safety. Our advocates can explain confidentiality and any limits to it when you connect with services so you understand what information is kept private and when information may need to be shared.

No. We are here to support you, not make decisions for you. We will listen, provide information about your options and your rights, help you think through safety concerns, and support you in making choices that fit your needs and goals.

Staying in shelter can be a big transition, and each person’s experience is different. Our Lewis House shelter is a communal living environment where individuals and families share common spaces, such as kitchens and living areas, while having private spaces for rest and personal time. Residents live alongside others who are also seeking safety and support, which can provide opportunities for connection, encouragement, and community.

Shared living means adjusting to different schedules, needs, and experiences. Residents work together to create a respectful and supportive environment by following shared expectations around safety, privacy, communication, and use of common spaces. Our staff members are available 24/7 to help residents adjust to shelter life, answer questions, provide support, and help each person work toward their individual goals.  There is no cost to stay in shelter. 

If you think you may have experienced sexual assault, know that you can reach out for support at any time. You do not have to be certain about what happened, have all the details, or know what you want to do next in order to talk with an advocate. We can listen, answer questions, explain available options, and support you in making decisions that feel right for you.  If the assault happened recently and you are considering a medical forensic exam, seeking care as soon as possible may help preserve options for collecting evidence and addressing any health concerns. A forensic exam is your choice, and you can receive support and information about the process without being required to make a report to law enforcement. Your safety and well-being are the priority. If you are in immediate danger, seek emergency assistance. Otherwise, connecting with a sexual assault advocate can be a first step toward getting support, understanding your options, and deciding what comes next. 

Yes. If you would like support, an advocate may be available to accompany you. We can help explain processes, answer questions, provide emotional support, and ensure you have information about your rights and options. We are here to support you and help you make informed decisions throughout the process. 

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No. You do not have to leave a relationship or make any specific decision to receive support. We work with people at all stages, including those who are considering leaving, those who have left, and those who are unsure about what they want to do next.

Yes. There is no timeline for seeking support. Many people reach out days, months, or years after experiencing violence. We can provide support, resources, and information based on what is helpful to you now.

Support groups can be helpful if you’re looking for connection, encouragement, and the opportunity to learn alongside others who have had similar experiences. While everyone’s healing journey is different, many people find comfort in realizing they are not alone and in hearing how others have navigated challenges. You do not have to be ready to share your story to benefit from a support group; listening is always ok. If you’re unsure whether a group is a good fit, we can talk with you about your goals, answer your questions, and help you decide if a support group or another type of service may best meet your needs.

Prevention education focuses on building knowledge, skills, and healthy relationships before violence occurs. By increasing awareness, promoting respectful relationships and consent, challenging harmful attitudes, and helping people recognize warning signs and respond safely, community members can play an active role in creating safer homes, schools, workplaces, and communities. 

Anyone can request a presentation or training. We provide education for schools, workplaces, healthcare providers, law enforcement, community organizations, faith communities, youth groups, and other community partners. Trainings are tailored to the audience and can cover topics such as healthy relationships, domestic violence, sexual violence, bystander intervention, trauma, safety planning, and supporting survivors.  All of our presentations are available at no cost.