You Are Not Alone!
If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, help is available day or night. At Domestic Violence Services of Wilmington (DVSW), we provide safe shelter, confidential support, and compassionate advocacy to help you take your next step toward safety and healing.
Your call, text, or chat will always be answered by a trained advocate who listens without judgment and helps you explore your options safely.
Emergency Shelter Services
A Safe Place to Begin Again
Our secure, confidential shelters offer immediate refuge for individuals and families fleeing domestic violence.
Residents receive:
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Private, comfortable housing
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Meals and essential supplies
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Case management and advocacy
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Counseling and children’s support services
Whether you stay one night or several weeks, our goal is to help you rebuild your life in safety and dignity.
Legal Advocacy
Support Through Every Step
Navigating the legal system can be overwhelming—especially during a crisis. Our legal advocates are here to help you understand your rights and options.
We can assist with:
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Protective orders (50B and 50C)
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Court accompaniment and support
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Assistance completing legal paperwork
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Referrals to legal aid and pro bono attorneys
All services are free and confidential.
Counseling & Support Services
Healing Starts Here
DVSW offers confidential counseling and emotional support for survivors and their families. Our licensed counselors and trained advocates help survivors process trauma, rebuild confidence, and regain control of their lives.
Services include:
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Individual and group counseling
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Trauma-informed care
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Safety planning and goal setting
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Support for children and teens affected by violence
24/7 Crisis Hotline & Chat
Call Our 24/7 Crisis Hotline:
Chat with an Advocate:
If you are in immediate danger, call 911 first, then contact our hotline for confidential support.
Our advocates are available around the clock to provide:
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Crisis counseling and emotional support
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Emergency shelter placement
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Safety planning guidance
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Referrals to legal, medical, and community resources
Safety Planning Tips
Planning Ahead Can Save Your Life
A safety plan is a personalized strategy to help you prepare for and respond to dangerous situations. You can create one with an advocate or use these tips as a starting point:
If you’re still in the relationship:
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Keep your phone charged and accessible.
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Identify safe areas in your home with exits and no weapons.
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Establish a code word with friends or family to signal when you need help.
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Pack a “go bag” with essentials (ID, money, medications, keys, important documents).
If you’re planning to leave:
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Contact our hotline for guidance before you go—it’s safest to plan with an advocate.
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Keep copies of important documents in a safe place outside the home.
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Avoid sharing your plans on social media or with anyone who may tell your partner.
After you’ve left:
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Change locks, phone numbers, and online passwords if possible.
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Notify your workplace or children’s school about your situation.
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Continue using your safety plan until you feel secure.
💬 Need help creating a safety plan? Call our 24/7 Hotline for confidential assistance.
We’re Here for You
No one deserves to live in fear. Whether you need a safe place to stay tonight or just someone to talk to, we are here, every hour, every day.