Domestic Violence: Find a Shelter Near You

As a survivor of domestic violence (DV), you know that your abuser isn’t going to make necessary changes anytime soon, which means that you and your children remain in danger every single day.  While the decision to leave home is a weighty one, it’s one that can lead to immense support and access to resources that can have a positive impact on your future. A shelter here in Miami for women and children could be the best place for you as you contemplate life beyond violence.

The Benefits of a Shelter

While every shelter is different, there are a few things every person can count on while there: safety, support, and services.

• Safety: Every domestic violence shelter has policies designed to protect the women and children who stay there. Many even have confidential locations. For a free, secure place to catch your breath and think clearly, this is a wonderful option.
• Support: Anyone whose life has been fraught with violence may feel the need for emotional support, and shelters have advocates for precisely this reason. You can count on learning about organizations and programs focused on helping DV victims with things like financial help, transitional housing, and legal assistance.
• Resources: Many who leave an abusive partner do so with just the clothes on their backs. Likewise, many shelters can help with necessities such as clothing, food, and toiletries. Staff in shelters can also help to replace important documents or medications that were left behind in a quick get-away.

What About Pets? 

Abused individuals often have deep connections to their pets and can’t imagine leaving them. Fortunately, there are shelters that allow pets, which are frequently able to stay in the living area with you and your children. Other shelters may have kennels for pets, and even those that cannot provide for pets often have connections to emergency pet fostering programs or shelters.

What to Expect 

Again, every shelter is different, but in general you can count on the following:

• You’ll be asked to fill out an intake form, to at least discuss your circumstances with someone there, which will be a good opportunity for you to ask questions.
• You will be expected to keep your location confidential, since if your abuser discovered your whereabouts, it could jeopardize the safety of everyone there, which could mean you’d have to leave.
• No mail will be delivered to the shelter as another way to protect the shelter location.
• There will be a robust security system.
• You will regularly speak with trained advocates who will assist with addressing your needs.

Your Legal Advocate 

The experienced Miami domestic violence attorneys at The Law Office of Julia Kefalinos are here to assist survivors of domestic violence as they navigate the aftermath of abuse. To discuss, schedule a confidential consultation in our Miami office today.