HOW WE CAN HELP

If you need to escape an abusive relationship, call us at 214-941-1991. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

The Family Place is here to empower you to escape from family violence and become a survivor. Whether the abuse you suffer is physical, emotional, verbal or financial, we provide a safe place to heal and the counseling and resources you need to start down the path to independence. All services are free and offered in English and Spanish. For a full list of our services, click here.

Have a Plan for Safety

A safety plan is a personalized plan of safety measures for anyone in an abusive relationship, leaving an abusive relationship, or maintaining safety after an abusive relationship.

Safety During an Explosive Incident

• If an argument seems unavoidable, try to have it in a room with access to an exit, not in a bathroom or kitchen.
• Practice how to leave your home safely.
• Keep a packed bag in a hidden, accessible spot.
• Let a trusted neighbor know about the violence and ask them to call police if they hear anything.
• Use a code word with family or friends to signal for help.
• Decide where you’ll go if you have to leave.
• Trust your instincts — do whatever it takes to protect yourself in the moment.
• Remember: You don’t deserve to be hit or threatened.

Safety When Preparing to Leave

• Open a savings account in your name.
• Leave money, keys, and important documents with someone you trust.
• Identify friends or family who could help with shelter or money.
• Review and practice your safety plan often.
• Make a safety plan for your children, including safe pickup instructions for school/daycare.
• Keep the shelter’s phone number handy, along with cash, a calling card, or a cell phone.
• Remember: Leaving is often the most dangerous time.

What to Take When You Leave

• ID for you and your children
• Driver’s license
• Birth certificates
• Money, credit/debit cards
• Lease, rental agreement, house deed
• Checkbooks and bank records
• Insurance papers
• House and car keys
• Medications
• Small sellable items
• Phone numbers and address book
• Photos and sentimental items
• Medical records (for all family members)
• Social Security cards
• Public assistance documents
• School and vaccination records
• Work permits, passport, green card
• Divorce papers
• Favorite toys for children

Other safety options include protective orders, workplace safety plans, tech and social media precautions, and emotional health support. Our counselors can help you develop a personalized safety plan and offer a safe place to explore your options. Call our 24-hour hotline at 214-941-1991 to see how we can help.