If you’re in the District of Columbia and need support, you can call, text, or chat with the DC Victim Hotline anytime—24/7—for free and confidential help at 1-844-443-5732. Interpreters are available in more than 200 languages. Or visit the National Center for Victims of Crime for referrals for those in the District of Columbia.
The DC Victim Hotline connects survivors with shelters, safety planning, legal advocacy, and other services throughout the city.
Please note: In Washington, DC, immigrant victims of domestic violence have the right to receive help regardless of immigration status.
For those outside DC, you can also call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), text “START” to 88788, or visit The Hotline for a list of local resources.
MSP Programs and Services
Seeking Assistance/Help? Call us at (202) 540-1064 for information on MSP’s programs and availability. Staff will respond to calls regarding domestic violence housing and services within two business days.
For information about individual programs, contact:
shelterinfo@mysistersplacedc.org
riseplusinfo@mysistersplacedc.org
Please note that programs and services, such as case management, are only available to clients in our emergency and transitional housing programs.
Stay Safe & Be Prepared
Victims face the most danger from their abusers when they prepare to leave. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
As you prepare to leave, be safe and prepared. The following steps can help you increase your safety when leaving an abusive relationship.
Tell Someone You Can Trust
Call or text the 24/7 DC Victim Hotline at 1-844-443-5732
Preparing to Leave
- Let someone you trust keep a bag packed with your essential items and copies of important documents (e.g., a list of important phone numbers, birth certificates, and social security cards for you and your children).
- Practice how to get out of the home safely.
Plan for a safe place to go if you have to leave suddenly. - Devise a code word to use with your neighbor, children, and family when you need them to call the police.
- Teach your children how to call the police (911).
Leaving
You may request police stand-by. Consider getting a Civil Protection Order (CPO) at the DV Intake Center at the DC Superior Court (500 Indiana Avenue, NW, 4th Floor) or at the DV Intake Center – SE (2041 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE, Room 400). Take important phone numbers & documents with you.
After Leaving
Keep a copy of your CPO with you at all times and give a copy to your child’s school.
Alert people at your workplace and give a copy of your CPO to security.
Emotional Health
Remember, the abuse you are experiencing is NOT your fault. Plan to attend a survivor’s support group to gain support and learn from others. Returning to your abuser does not mean you have failed. The important thing is that you and your children are safe and that you know help is available.