Domestic Violence Resources and Safety for Single Mothers in Virginia
Domestic Violence and Abuse Help & Safety Resources for Single Mothers in Virginia
Last updated: September 2025
Emergency Help First
If there is immediate danger, leave this page and use a safe phone.
- Call 911 now: if you or your children are in danger.
- Virginia Statewide Sexual & Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-838-8238 (24/7), text 804-793-9999, or use secure chat for confidential help and shelter referrals. (vsdvalliance.org)
- Court protective orders: you can request an emergency order any time through police or a magistrate; courts can issue longer orders quickly. Details below. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- Safer communications tip: use a device the abuser cannot access, clear your browser history, and consider using a library or friend’s phone to call the hotline. (vsdvalliance.org)
Quick Help Box
- Shelter tonight: call the Virginia Statewide Hotline at 1-800-838-8238 to locate the nearest open bed and arrange transport if available. (vsdvalliance.org)
- Protective order today: tell police you want an Emergency Protective Order, or go to your local Juvenile & Domestic Relations District Court for a Preliminary Protective Order. It’s free. (law.lis.virginia.gov, selfhelp.vacourts.gov)
- Hide your address: the Attorney General’s Address Confidentiality Program can give you a substitute address; call 804-482-2280 to ask about applying. (oag.state.va.us)
- Paying for medical care after sexual assault: the Virginia Victims Fund’s SAFE Program covers PERK exams and HIV prevention meds; hotline 1-800-552-4007 for billing questions. (virginiavictimsfund.org)
- Food this month: apply for SNAP online (CommonHelp) or call 833-522-5582; see the current maximum monthly amounts below. (dss.virginia.gov)
- Legal help for custody, housing, or protective orders: call legal aid at 1-866-LEGLAID (1-866-534-5243) for intake to your nearest office. (vsb.org)
- Find any service fast: dial 2-1-1, text CONNECT to 247211, or search statewide at 211Virginia.org. (211virginia.org)
What Virginia’s numbers show right now
- Statewide help usage: in 2023, there were 72,831 calls to the Statewide Hotline; 5,700 adults and children received 230,759 nights of emergency or temporary shelter; and 28,814 people received in‑person advocacy. (rga.lis.virginia.gov)
- Protective orders are common and fast: Virginia magistrates and judges issue emergency orders 24/7; courts hold full protective‑order hearings within about 15 days of a preliminary order. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- Most violence happens at home: in 2023, about 49.4% of violent crimes occurred at a residence/home in Virginia’s statewide crime data. (rga.lis.virginia.gov)
Reality check—beds fill up fast, court days are stressful, and benefits take paperwork. The steps below cut the time and guesswork.
Protective Orders in Virginia: What to ask for, where to go, and how long each lasts
Start with the fastest protection you can get today, then stack longer protection.
Table: Protective orders at a glance
| Type | Who issues | How long it lasts | Cost | Where to go | Key notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emergency Protective Order (EPO) | Magistrate or judge (often requested by police) | Until 11:59 p.m. on the 3rd day after issuance, or until the next court day if the court is closed | $0 | Through responding officers, or at a magistrate’s office | Good for immediate safety; can prohibit contact and grant pet possession; get a copy and carry it. (law.lis.virginia.gov) |
| Preliminary Protective Order (PPO) | J&DR District Court (family/household); GDC for non‑family | Up to 15 days until the full hearing | $0 | File at J&DR Court Services Unit (family/household) or GDC Clerk (non‑family) | You can file yourself; judge may issue ex parte based on your petition. (law.lis.virginia.gov, selfhelp.vacourts.gov) |
| Final Protective Order (PO) | J&DR District Court (family/household) | Up to 2 years; can be extended repeatedly; up to 4 years in some repeat‑order cases | $0 | Same court where you filed PPO | Can include no contact, stay‑away, temporary custody, visitation, and even temporary child support. (law.lis.virginia.gov) |
- How to file fast: use the court’s free I‑CAN! Virginia tool to fill out the forms; it prints instructions for what to do next. (vacourts.gov, selfhelp.vacourts.gov)
- Proof you’ll need: a short written description of what happened, dates if you have them, names/addresses, and any photos or texts. Courts do not charge you to file or to have the order served. (law.lis.virginia.gov, selfhelp.vacourts.gov)
- Same‑day example: Loudoun County processes same‑day PPOs if you arrive before late morning; other courts do similar schedules—ask your clerk. (loudoun.gov)
- Keep it with you: after your final order, ask for a free credit‑card‑sized “Hope Card” (available statewide) to carry the order details. (vacourts.gov)
- Firearms surrender: when a final order is issued, the respondent has 24 hours to surrender, sell, or transfer firearms and must certify surrender within 48 hours. Violations carry criminal penalties. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call the Statewide Hotline: 1-800-838-8238 to find an advocate who can go with you to court. (vsdvalliance.org)
- Ask for police transport to a magistrate: after an incident, you can request an EPO through the responding officer. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- Use I‑CAN! Virginia: complete forms at home or a library; take the printouts to the clerk. (vacourts.gov)
Keep your address confidential
- What the program does: the Attorney General’s Address Confidentiality Program gives you a legal substitute mailing address and forwards first‑class mail for 3 years, renewable. Virginia agencies must accept it as your address. Phone: 804-482-2280. (oag.state.va.us, law.lis.virginia.gov)
- Who qualifies: survivors of domestic violence, sexual violence, stalking, child abduction, or human trafficking who have relocated to an address unknown to the abuser. Apply through an accredited local domestic or sexual violence program. (oag.state.va.us)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask an advocate via the Hotline: 1-800-838-8238 to connect you to a local accredited program that can certify your application. (oag.state.va.us)
Health care and evidence after sexual assault
- No‑cost forensic exam (PERK): Virginia’s SAFE Payment Program pays for the exam, testing for STIs/pregnancy, HIV post‑exposure prevention meds (full 28‑day course), and ambulance transport for the exam. You do not have to report to police to get a PERK. Billing help line: 1-800-552-4007. (virginiavictimsfund.org)
- Anonymous kit storage: if you choose not to report, your PERK is stored for at least 2 years; you may later opt in to testing/reporting. (virginiavictimsfund.org)
- Hospital tip: ask for an on‑call Forensic Nurse Examiner; bring a change of clothes. If possible, avoid showering or washing clothing before the exam.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call the Hotline: 1-800-838-8238 to locate the nearest hospital with forensic nurses and arrange accompaniment. (vsdvalliance.org)
Crime‑victim compensation: money to relocate, change locks, and more
The Virginia Victims Fund (VVF) helps with out‑of‑pocket costs tied to a violent crime.
Table: Virginia Victims Fund key benefits and caps (crimes after July 1, 2019)
| Expense | Typical coverage limit |
|---|---|
| Overall maximum per claim | $35,000 total cap |
| Moving/relocation | Up to $2,000 |
| Temporary housing | Up to 30 days immediately after the crime |
| Security system | Up to $1,000 |
| Income loss (victim) | 2/3 of average weekly wage (limits apply) |
| Domestic loss of support | Up to 13 weeks at 2/3 of offender’s avg. weekly wage |
| Funeral/burial | Up to $10,000 |
| Crime scene cleanup | Up to $1,000 |
Source with eligibility and current limits: Virginia Victims Fund. Phone: 1-800-552-4007. (virginiavictimsfund.org)
- Apply within time limits: generally within 1 year of the crime (explain any delay in writing). (virginiavictimsfund.org)
- Help filing: ask your local Victim/Witness Assistance Program or an advocate to submit your claim online. (virginiavictimsfund.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask for the VVF Ombudsman through VVF’s site to troubleshoot your claim. (virginiavictimsfund.org)
- Call the Virginia Victim Assistance Network Helpline: 1-855-443-5782 for referral to your local Victim/Witness program. (vanetwork.org)
Housing safety and your lease
- VAWA housing rights: if you’re in HUD‑covered housing (public housing, Housing Choice Voucher, Section 8, many multifamily programs), you have protections: you cannot be denied or evicted because of abuse, you can “bifurcate” the lease to remove the abuser, and you can request an emergency transfer to another safe unit. You can self‑certify using HUD Form 5382. (hud.gov)
- Emergency transfers: PHAs and covered landlords must have an Emergency Transfer Plan and prioritize moving you quickly to a safe unit when you meet VAWA conditions. (law.cornell.edu)
- How to use this: tell your housing worker you are requesting a VAWA emergency transfer, ask for HUD Forms 5380/5382, and put it in writing.
- If you don’t have subsidized housing: call the Statewide Hotline (1-800-838-8238) for shelter and rapid rehousing referrals, and dial 2-1-1 for local rent/utility help. (vsdvalliance.org, 211virginia.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Legal aid for housing: call 1-866-LEGLAID (1-866-534-5243) if a landlord retaliates or ignores VAWA rules. (vsb.org)
Food help right away: SNAP in Virginia (FY 2025)
You can apply online through CommonHelp or by phone. SNAP customer line: 833-522-5582. (dss.virginia.gov)
Table: SNAP maximum monthly benefits, Oct 1, 2024 – Sep 30, 2025 (48 states/DC)
| Household size | Max monthly benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $292 |
| 2 | $536 |
| 3 | $768 |
| 4 | $975 |
| 5 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $1,756 |
| Each additional | $220 |
Source: Virginia DSS SNAP eligibility page (FY 2025). Apply at CommonHelp or call 833-522-5582. (dss.virginia.gov)
Table: Virginia SNAP income standards (FY 2025)
| Household | Net income limit (100% FPL) | Gross income limit (130% FPL) | BBCE gross income limit (200% FPL) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,255 | $1,632 | $2,510 |
| 2 | $1,704 | $2,215 | $3,407 |
| 3 | $2,152 | $2,798 | $4,303 |
| 4 | $2,600 | $3,380 | $5,200 |
| 5 | $3,049 | $3,963 | $6,097 |
| 6 | $3,497 | $4,546 | $6,993 |
| 7 | $3,945 | $5,129 | $7,890 |
| 8 | $4,394 | $5,712 | $8,787 |
| +1 | $449 | $583 | $897 |
Source: Virginia DSS SNAP income/benefit chart for FY 2025. (dss.virginia.gov)
- How to apply: online at CommonHelp or by phone; you may be asked for ID, proof of Virginia residence, income, and housing costs. CommonHelp help line: 1-855-635-4370. (commonhelp.dss.virginia.gov)
- Processing time reality: many cases take up to a few weeks; answer calls from the local DSS so your case doesn’t stall.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your local DSS about emergency issuance if you have very low income this month and limited cash-on-hand. Use the SNAP line 833-522-5582 to locate your office. (dss.virginia.gov)
Cash and child care support tied to safety
- TANF cash help: amounts vary by locality and assistance unit under Virginia’s Group I–III schedule. VDSS does not publish one statewide dollar table online—ask your local DSS for the current “Standard of Assistance” for your county when you apply. How to apply: via CommonHelp or your local office; you can also ask about one‑time Diversionary Assistance (to prevent homelessness or cover a crisis). (dss.virginia.gov)
- RISE matched‑savings (for TANF‑connected families): save up to 500∗∗andreceiveupto∗∗500** and receive up to **4,000 in matching funds (8:1) toward approved goals like a car purchase, housing, or education. Ask your caseworker. (dss.virginia.gov)
- Child Care Subsidy Program (CCSP): Virginia serves families up to 85% of State Median Income; for example, in recent statewide reporting that’s up to about $96,969 yearly for a family of four. Waitlists exist in many localities, and copays are set by state policy. See VDOE’s “Paying for Child Care” page and the July 2025 copayment/rates update. (rga.lis.virginia.gov, childcare.virginia.gov)
- Applying for CCSP: apply via CommonHelp or your local DSS; the agency has 30 days to process most applications, and many localities use waitlists when funding is tight. (childcare.virginia.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Use 2‑1‑1 Virginia to check for short‑term childcare scholarships, church‑based programs, or emergency care while your subsidy is pending. Dial 2‑1‑1. (211virginia.org)
Law, safety, and your children
- Child Protective Services: if the abuser is harming or threatening a child, call CPS. In‑state hotline 804-786-8536; out‑of‑state 1-800-552-7096 (24/7). You can report anonymously. (dss.virginia.gov)
- Strangulation is a felony: if the abuser put hands on your neck or blocked your breathing, that’s a Class 6 felony in Virginia—tell police and ask them to note strangulation in the report. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- Victim/Witness programs: your local Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office can provide court accompaniment, updates, and help with VVF applications. Find programs via the Virginia Victim Assistance Network or call their Helpline 1-855-443-5782. (vanetwork.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Legal aid intake: call 1-866-LEGLAID (1-866-534-5243) for help with custody, visitation, child support, and housing issues linked to abuse. (vsb.org)
Real‑world examples
- Example—fast safety plan in Fairfax: After a violent incident, a mom asked police for an Emergency Protective Order at the scene. The next morning she used I‑CAN! Virginia to complete her PPO forms, brought photos/texts, and received a 15‑day order the same day. An advocate from the Statewide Hotline met her at court and helped her file for the Address Confidentiality Program before moving to a new apartment. (law.lis.virginia.gov, vacourts.gov, oag.state.va.us)
- Example—paying to relocate: In Hampton Roads, a mom used VVF to pay for a deposit and a basic security system after an assault, then applied for SNAP to cover groceries while she missed work to attend court. (virginiavictimsfund.org, dss.virginia.gov)
Local organizations and statewide hotlines that actually pick up
- Virginia Statewide Sexual & Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-838-8238 (call), text 804-793-9999, or chat online; they connect you to the closest shelter, advocate, and legal resources. (vsdvalliance.org)
- Virginia Victim Assistance Network Helpline: 1-855-443-5782 for referral to your local Victim/Witness program. (vanetwork.org)
- Alexandria Domestic Violence Program & Sexual Assault Center: DV hotline 703-746-4911; sexual assault hotline 703-683-7273. (vsdvalliance.org)
- ACTS (Prince William County/Manassas): DV hotline 703-221-4951; sexual violence line 703-497-1192. (vsdvalliance.org)
- Abuse Alternatives (Bristol VA region): hotline 1-800-987-6499 (serves Bristol VA/TN area). (vsdvalliance.org)
- Legal Aid (statewide intake): 1-866-LEGLAID (1-866-534-5243) to reach your local civil legal aid office. (vsb.org)
- Virginia Victims Fund: claims and SAFE program questions 1-800-552-4007. (virginiavictimsfund.org)
- CPS Hotline: 804-786-8536 (VA) or 1-800-552-7096 (out of state). (dss.virginia.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
Table: Key hotlines and portals
| Need | Where to contact |
|---|---|
| Emergency police/EMS | 911 |
| Statewide DV/SV Hotline | 1-800-838-8238 (text 804-793-9999) |
| Legal aid intake | 1-866-534-5243 (LEGLAID) |
| Victim/Witness referral | 1-855-443-5782 |
| Virginia Victims Fund | 1-800-552-4007 |
| CPS Hotline | 804-786-8536 (VA) / 1-800-552-7096 (out of state) |
| SNAP application help | 833-522-5582 |
| CommonHelp help line | 1-855-635-4370 |
| 2‑1‑1 Virginia | 2-1-1 or text CONNECT to 247211 |
Sources for the numbers above are linked throughout this guide. (vsdvalliance.org, vsb.org, vanetwork.org, virginiavictimsfund.org, dss.virginia.gov, commonhelp.dss.virginia.gov, 211virginia.org)
Application checklist (for court, benefits, and housing)
- For protective orders:
- Photo ID; any safe contact number or email you can check.
- Incident details written in your words (date/time if known).
- Evidence you already have: photos of injuries/damage, threatening texts, call logs, medical notes.
- Children’s details if asking for temporary custody/visitation terms.
- Plan B ride home after court (some sheriffs provide escorts).
- For SNAP/TANF/CCSP at DSS:
- Proof of identity and Virginia address (lease, letter from shelter, or a DSS address‑verification form).
- Income proof (paystubs, employer letter), expense proof (rent, childcare, utilities).
- Social Security numbers for applying household members (not required for non‑applicants). (commonhelp.virginia.gov)
- For VAWA housing requests:
- Written request for an emergency transfer, HUD Form 5382 (self‑certification), and any police or court documents you want to include. (hud.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting to call because you’re unsure: advocates can safety‑plan even if you’re not leaving yet. Hotline: 1-800-838-8238. (vsdvalliance.org)
- Not asking for firearms surrender language: final protective orders trigger surrender deadlines—ask the clerk/judge to review that part with you. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- Missing DSS calls: a single missed follow‑up can delay SNAP or child care help by weeks—answer unknown numbers during your application window. (dss.virginia.gov)
- Forgetting address safety on forms: if the abuser stalks you, ask the clerk about sealing addresses and apply for the Address Confidentiality Program. (oag.state.va.us)
- Assuming you’ll be billed for a PERK exam: the SAFE Program covers the forensic exam and HIV prevention meds. If you get a bill, call 1-800-552-4007. (virginiavictimsfund.org)
Diverse communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Hotline support is LGBTQ‑affirming and can connect you to local advocates and legal help that understand same‑sex or trans‑partner violence. Statewide Hotline: 1-800-838-8238. (vsdvalliance.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: when you call the Hotline, request accessible services and transportation; VVF may cover specialized needs like a basic security system after a crime. (virginiavictimsfund.org)
- Veteran single mothers: ask your PHA or landlord for a VAWA emergency transfer in HUD‑covered housing; legal aid can also help when military life complicates housing or custody. (hud.gov)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: you can seek protective orders and emergency help regardless of immigration status. For language access, the Hotline has interpreters in 200+ languages via LanguageLine. Call: 1-800-838-8238. (vsdvalliance.org)
- Tribal citizens and rural communities: if you are far from a courthouse or shelter, the Hotline will locate the nearest program and arrange transportation when possible; 2‑1‑1 can supplement with local faith‑based aid. (vsdvalliance.org, 211virginia.org)
- Single fathers experiencing abuse: the same services apply—call the Statewide Hotline and request a family‑abuse protective order if needed. (vsdvalliance.org)
- Language access: when you call, say your language—interpreters are available; courts can also provide interpreters for hearings. (vsdvalliance.org)
Regional pointers
- Northern Virginia: Alexandria DV Program 703-746-4911; ACTS in Prince William 703-221-4951 (DV). (vsdvalliance.org)
- Hampton Roads: contact the Statewide Hotline for bed availability across South Hampton Roads and the Peninsula: 1-800-838-8238. (vsdvalliance.org)
- Richmond/Central Virginia: use 2‑1‑1 for local rent/utility help while advocates work on shelter placement. (211virginia.org)
- Southwest/Shenandoah: the Hotline will route to programs serving Blue Ridge and Bristol regions, including Abuse Alternatives 1-800-987-6499. (vsdvalliance.org)
Deeper legal notes you can use in court
- Fees: there are no fees to file or serve family‑abuse protective orders. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- Hearing timing: PPO hearings are set within 15 days; if court is closed, they’re held the next business day and the order remains in effect. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- Gun restrictions: during a final protective order, the respondent may not possess a firearm; they have 24 hours to surrender and 48 hours to certify. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- Hope Card: available statewide after a final order—ask your clerk. (vacourts.gov)
10 Virginia‑specific FAQs
- Q: How fast can I get something in place if I call police tonight?
A: Officers can request an Emergency Protective Order from a magistrate immediately; it lasts through 11:59 p.m. on the third day (or next court day). (law.lis.virginia.gov) - Q: Is there a fee to file a protective order?
A: No. Filing and service are free in family‑abuse cases. (law.lis.virginia.gov) - Q: Can a judge remove the abuser from our home and set custody/visitation temporarily?
A: Yes—final family‑abuse protective orders can include temporary possession of the home, custody, visitation, and temporary child support. (law.lis.virginia.gov) - Q: What if the abuser has guns?
A: A final protective order triggers firearm surrender within 24 hours and a 48‑hour certification to the court. Report violations to police. (law.lis.virginia.gov) - Q: Where do I get protective‑order forms?
A: Use the court’s free I‑CAN! Virginia online tool to prepare and print forms. (vacourts.gov) - Q: I need to move, but I’m broke. Is there help with deposits?
A: VVF may pay moving and security costs (up to 2,000∗∗forrelocationand∗∗2,000** for relocation and **1,000 for a basic security system), within the overall $35,000 cap. Apply quickly. (virginiavictimsfund.org) - Q: Can I keep my new address off public records?
A: Yes—ask about the Address Confidentiality Program (3‑year certification, renewable). (oag.state.va.us) - Q: How much SNAP could my family receive?
A: See the table above—e.g., a family of four can receive up to $975/month in FY 2025, depending on income and deductions. (dss.virginia.gov) - Q: Child care is my barrier to leaving—what can I do?
A: Apply for the Child Care Subsidy Program (up to 85% SMI income eligibility; waitlists in some areas). You’ll get a copay scale and can choose a participating provider. (rga.lis.virginia.gov, childcare.virginia.gov) - Q: Who will stand next to me in court?
A: Ask your local Victim/Witness program for court accompaniment and updates; find them through the Network’s Helpline 1-855-443-5782. (vanetwork.org)
Steps that work (and realistic timelines)
- Today: call the Hotline (1-800-838-8238) and request shelter or an advocate; if assaulted, seek a PERK exam right away—billing is covered. (vsdvalliance.org, virginiavictimsfund.org)
- Within 24–72 hours: get an EPO and file for a PPO; ask the clerk about the next hearing date (often within 15 days). (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- Within 1–2 weeks: attend court, request a final order (up to 2 years), and apply to VVF for relocation/security help. (law.lis.virginia.gov, virginiavictimsfund.org)
- Within 30 days: submit SNAP and child care applications; answer DSS calls to avoid delays. (dss.virginia.gov, childcare.virginia.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: This guide uses official sources from Virginia courts, the Office of the Attorney General, Virginia DSS, VDOE Child Care, HUD, USDA, and established statewide nonprofits including the Virginia Sexual & Domestic Violence Action Alliance, Virginia Victim Assistance Network, and Virginia Victims Fund.
Editorial Standards: Our guides follow our Editorial Policy—we use primary sources, verify links at publication, and update with policy changes quickly.
Verification schedule: Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.
Contact for corrections: email info@asinglemother.org.
Disclaimer
Important: Laws, benefit amounts, eligibility limits, and processing timelines change. Always verify with the linked agency or court before you act. This guide is general information, not legal advice, medical advice, or case‑specific guidance. For legal advice, contact a licensed Virginia attorney or your local legal aid office.
Safety & security notice: For your privacy, use a safe device and network when viewing or printing this guide. If you believe your device is monitored, visit a library or trusted friend to access these resources.
Sources (selected)
- Virginia Statewide Hotline and services: Virginia Sexual & Domestic Violence Action Alliance. (vsdvalliance.org)
- Protective orders—types, timelines, I‑CAN forms, Hope Card: Virginia Judicial System. (selfhelp.vacourts.gov, vacourts.gov)
- Emergency/Preliminary/Final PO statutes and no‑fee rule: Code of Virginia. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- Firearms surrender deadlines under PO: Code of Virginia § 18.2‑308.1:4. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- Address Confidentiality Program: OAG and Code § 2.2‑515.2. (oag.state.va.us, law.lis.virginia.gov)
- SAFE Payment Program (PERK) and HIV PEP coverage: Virginia Victims Fund. (virginiavictimsfund.org)
- Victim compensation benefits and caps: Virginia Victims Fund. (virginiavictimsfund.org)
- SNAP FY 2025 limits and how to apply: Virginia DSS (SNAP). (dss.virginia.gov)
- CommonHelp portal & help line: VDSS. (commonhelp.dss.virginia.gov)
- Child Care Subsidy—income policy, waitlists, copayment updates: VDOE Child Care VA. (childcare.virginia.gov)
- VAWA housing rights: HUD and 24 CFR 5.2005. (hud.gov, law.cornell.edu)
- CPS hotlines: VDSS. (dss.virginia.gov)
- Strangulation felony: Code of Virginia § 18.2‑51.6. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
- Statewide usage stats 2023: OAG Domestic and Sexual Violence 2024 Annual Report. (rga.lis.virginia.gov)
- Victim/Witness referral: Virginia Victim Assistance Network. (vanetwork.org)
- Legal aid statewide intake: Virginia State Bar—Legal Help for Virginians. (vsb.org)
What to do next
- If you need a person on the phone now: call 1-800-838-8238.
- If you need food benefits this month: call 833-522-5582.
- If you need a protective order today: go to your J&DR District Court or call police for an EPO.
Stay safe. You are allowed to ask for help more than once.
Learn more:
- Hotlines – Virginia Sexual & Domestic Violence Action Alliance
- § 19.2-152.8. Emergency protective orders authorized
- Family Abuse Protective Order – Information Checklist | Virginia Judicial System Court Self-Help
- Domestic Violence – Address Confidentiality Program
- SAFE Payment Program | Virginia Victims Fund
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Virginia Department of Social Services
- Legal Help
- Get Help with 211 Virginia: Housing, Food, Healthcare, and More — 211 Virginia
- RD61 (Published 2025) – Domestic and Sexual Violence in Virginia 2024 Annual Report
- RD437 (Published 2024) – Crime in Virginia – 2023
- § 16.1-253.1. Preliminary protective orders in cases of family abuse; confidentiality
- § 16.1-279.1. Protective order in cases of family abuse
- Assistance with Protective Orders | Virginia Court System
- Protective Orders | Virginia Judicial System Court Self-Help
- Code of Virginia (2025 Updates)
- Protective Orders | Loudoun County, VA – Official Website
- Domestic Violence Programs and Services (DVPS) | Virginia Court System
- § 18.2-308.1:4. Purchase or transportation of firearm by persons subject to protective orders; penalties
- § 2.2-515.2. Address confidentiality program established; victims of domestic violence, stalking, child abduction, sexual violence, or human trafficking; application; disclosure of records
- Victims | Virginia Victims Fund
- For Advocates | Virginia Victims Fund
- Resources – Virginia Victim Assistance Network
- Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) | HUD.gov / U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
- 24 CFR § 5.2005 – VAWA protections. | Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (e-CFR) | US Law | LII / Legal Information Institute
- CAS
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – Virginia Department of Social Services
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – Virginia Department of Social Services
- RD235 (Published 2024) – SFY 2023 Annual Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) Report
- Paying for Child Care | Child Care VA
- Paying for Child Care | Child Care VA
- Child Protective Services (CPS) – Virginia Department of Social Services
- § 18.2-51.6. Strangulation or suffocation of another; penalty
- Virginia Sexual & Domestic Violence Action Alliance
- https://www.commonhelp.virginia.gov/access/jsp/access/afb/ABWelcome.jsp/
- Your Rights Under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) | HUD.gov / U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
- § 16.1-253.1. Preliminary protective orders in cases of family abuse; confidentiality
🏛️More Virginia Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Virginia
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
