Guide: Domestic violence safety tips and resources in the tri-state area
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Purple Thursday, Oct. 20, is a national day of action to help raise awareness about domestic violence.
If you, or someone you know, needs help - below are some resources in the tri-state area:
NATIONAL RESOURCES
CALL: 800-799-7233
TEXT: "START" to 88788
CHAT: thehotline.org
The three services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Languages: English, Spanish and 200+ through interpretation service.
Fearless! - 845-562-5340
CONNECTICUT RESOURCES
CALL or TEXT: 888-774-2900
CHAT or EMAIL: www.CTSafeConnect.org
The three services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
NEW JERSEY RESOURCES
CALL: 1 (800) 572-SAFE (7233)
Service available 24 hours a day, seven days a week
NEW YORK RESOURCES
New York State Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline
CALL: 800-942-6906
TEXT: 844.997.2121
CHAT: OPDV.NY.GOV
The three services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
NEW YORK CITY RESOURCES
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please call New York City's 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline, 1-800-621-HOPE.
More NYC domestic and gender-based violence support HERE.
The Family Justice Centers (FJC's) are open and providing free services and confidential assistance by phone and in person. More resources here.
Call 311 and ask to be connected to the nearest NYC Family Justice Center
In an emergency, dial 911.
FOR YOUR SAFETY:
The New York state Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence has the following safety tips if you, or anyone you know, is in danger:
• Call 911 if you are in immediate danger and the police will respond.
• Seek treatment at a hospital emergency department if needed. Hospitals are open and a safe place to go for medical care.
• Add resources information (see above for each state) in your cellphone under a fake contact name to avoid suspicion.
• Create a code word for friends and family that will tell them you need help.
• Know the areas in your home with a lock on the door.
• Prepare a go-bag with important documents, medication and extra clothing.
• Tell your family and friends where you will flee if you need to leave urgently.
• Talk with your children about safety so they have a sense of acceptable situations.