"What is a Women's Shelter?"
A women's shelter is a place where women who have experienced any type of abuse can come for support, information, and a safe place to stay. It is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week - women can call and/or come in at any time, day or night. The services are completely free and confidential.
"I want to talk to someone, but I'm not sure I want to stay at a shelter. If I go there will I have to stay?"
No. The shelter provides a safe and comfortable place to stay for women coping with abuse, if they choose to stay there. Some women prefer to come in to talk with a counselor, to get information and support and then return home. Staff at the shelter will respect a woman's right and ability to make these choices for herself.
"Do I have to have children to stay at the shelter?"
No. Any woman, 16 years of age or older, with or without children, can access the services of the shelter. A child support worker offers programming and activities specific to the needs of the children who do come to the shelter with their mothers.
"How long can I stay at the shelter?"
The length of each woman's stay is determined by individual need.