Domestic Violence Support and Services

Help Is Available

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic or sexual violence, help is available right now. 
The Statewide Sexual and Domestic Violence Hotline is open 24/7: 

Call: 1-800-838-8238 
Text: 804-793-9999 
Chat: Start a confidential chat (works best on computer or tablet) 

Trained advocates will listen, provide support and connect you with resources in your community. 

How We Can Help 

The Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) Office of Family Violence partners with local programs across the state to provide safe, trauma-informed and accessible services for survivors and their children. Each year, more than 20,000 families receive support through these programs. 

Services may include: 

  • 24/7 hotlines and crisis intervention 
  • Peer counseling and advocacy 
  • Emergency housing and transportation 
  • Referrals to local resources 
  • Prevention and education programs 

Our Role at the State Level 

At VDSS, the Office of Family Violence works to strengthen and expand support for survivors and the providers who serve them by: 

  • Distributing state and federal funding to local domestic and sexual violence programs 
  • Promoting collaboration, training and trauma-informed practices 
  • Expanding services in underserved communities 
  • Raising public awareness about prevention and available resources 
  • Collecting and sharing program and statistical information

Explore Services

  • Emergency assistance and support through the Statewide Hotline 
  • Local domestic and sexual violence programs and services: crisis intervention, advocacy, housing, transportation and more 
  • Peer counseling and trauma-informed support 

Find safety and support resources

  • Access training, guidance and technical assistance 
  • Utilize program tools and resources for trauma-informed service delivery 
  • Review the Child and Family Services Manual for guidance across prevention, CPS, foster care, adoption and domestic violence response 

Find resources for funded partners

  • Learn how the Office of Family Violence distributes funding and promotes collaboration 
  • Explore prevention efforts and awareness campaigns 
  • Access data and reports to inform services and policy 

Explore community resources

If you are experiencing domestic violence, please reach out to the hotline today for confidential help. If you are a provider or partner, explore our resources and training to strengthen the services your community can offer. Together, we can build a safer Virginia for all families.