Domestic Violence Resources and Safety for Single Mothers in Missouri

Domestic Violence and Abuse Help & Safety Resources for Single Mothers in Missouri

Last updated: September 2025

Missouri-specific, no-fluff steps to get safe, find shelter, protect your kids, and secure benefits. Every phone number, dollar amount, and timeline below is sourced to official state/federal agencies or established statewide nonprofits.

Emergency help now

If someone is in immediate danger, call 911. If it’s not safe to talk, try to text 911 where available.

National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 800-799-7233 for 24/7 confidential help; chat is available at the Hotline’s website. Advocates can safety plan, find open beds, and connect you to Missouri programs. (en.wikipedia.org)
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (Missouri): Call or text 988 for 24/7 mental health crisis support; ASL Videophone (VP) is available. Note a mid‑2025 change removed the national “Press 3” LGBTQ+ youth option; Missouri centers will still connect you to affirming counselors. (missouri988.org, axios.com)
Deaf Crisis Line (MO): Videophone 321-800-3323; text “HAND” to 839863. (dss.mo.gov)
Missouri domestic violence shelters and services (state page): Use this official page to find local shelters and victim assistance. (dss.mo.gov)
United Way 211 (Missouri): Dial 211 for round‑the‑clock referrals to shelter, food, utilities, legal help, and more in every county. (Searchable Missouri directory online.) (search.211helps.org)

Quick help box

Use these fast paths first. Tap/call from your mobile if it’s safe.

Find an open DV shelter in Missouri: Use the Missouri DSS directory or call the National DV Hotline at 800-799-7233 for live bed searches and safety planning. (dss.mo.gov, en.wikipedia.org)
File an Order of Protection: Go to your county circuit court during business hours, or after hours file through local police. Jackson County step‑by‑step details and numbers: Kansas City 816-881-3974, Independence 816-881-4555 (state process similar statewide). (16thcircuit.org)
Keep your address confidential: Missouri’s Safe at Home program gives you a substitute address for schools, IDs, child support, and court records. Phone 866-509-1409. (sos.mo.gov)
Money fast: Check if you qualify for SNAP and Temporary Assistance (TANF)—online, by phone 855-373-4636, or at an FSD office. See income limits and maximum amounts below. (search.211helps.org, mydss.mo.gov)
Legal help (free): Legal Services of Eastern Missouri 314-534-4200 / 800-444-0514; Legal Aid of Western Missouri 816-474-6750; Mid‑Missouri Legal Services 573-442-0116; Legal Services of Southern Missouri 417-881-1397. (lsem.org, lawmo.org, mmls.org, search.211helps.org)

How to get safe tonight

Start with the most urgent actions, then work down the list.

Get to a safer place: A neighbor’s porch, an open store, hospital ER, or police station. Call 911 if you or your kids face immediate harm.
Call for advocate support: Hotline advocates can coach you while you leave, help you pack essentials, and coordinate shelter or a hotel voucher (where available). Use 800-799-7233 or local hotlines listed in the regional section below. (en.wikipedia.org)
Turn off location sharing: Disable location services on shared devices, log out of shared cloud accounts, and use a safe browser. The Jackson County court’s Order of Protection page includes a quick‑exit tip and privacy reminder. (16thcircuit.org)
If you must return home briefly: Keep keys, phone, IDs, EBT card, cash, meds, kids’ birth certificates, and a spare charger in your go‑bag by the door in case you need to leave quickly.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If shelters are full, ask the hotline/advocate to safety‑plan staying with a friend/family for 1–2 nights and to place you on call‑back for the next opening. Request help with bus fare, gas cards, or ride to a safer area. If you cannot safely move tonight, use a “room‑lock” plan and keep your phone on your person. (en.wikipedia.org)

Orders of Protection in Missouri

Start here: file a petition in the county where you live, where the abuse happened, or where the abuser lives/works. The process is free for petitioners.

Key facts at a glance

Topic	Details
Where to file	Circuit Clerk at your county courthouse; after hours via local police. (womenslaw.org)
Ex parte order	A judge can issue an immediate temporary order if there’s present danger; effective when signed/served. Hearing set within 15 days. (revisor.mo.gov)
Full Order of Protection (Adult/Child)	Valid 180 days–1 year by default; if court finds serious danger, can be 2–10 years; renewals can reach up to the life of the respondent in serious‑danger cases. (revisor.mo.gov)
Forms	Statewide adult/child protection forms ordered by Missouri Supreme Court (effective July 1, 2024). (news.mobar.org)
Privacy	You can leave your current address off forms if it endangers you. Consider Safe at Home. (mmls.org, sos.mo.gov)

How to apply (quick steps)

Go to your courthouse during business hours: Ask for the “Petition for Order of Protection” (adult or child). Clerks can explain forms (not legal advice). (mmls.org)
After hours: File with local police; many departments and hospitals hold emergency packets. Example: Jackson County instructions. (16thcircuit.org)
Bring evidence if you have it: Photos, messages, medical records, witnesses. Not required to file, but helpful for the hearing. A hearing is set within 15 days unless continued for good cause. (revisor.mo.gov)
Do not list a confidential address: If listing an address or school would put you at risk, ask the clerk about address confidentiality and Safe at Home. (mmls.org, sos.mo.gov)

Realistic timelines

Filing to hearing: Usually within 15 calendar days; bring your evidence and any witnesses. (revisor.mo.gov)
Service on the respondent: Sheriff prioritizes service; failure to serve does not void the order. (revisor.mo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t get to the courthouse safely, call a local DV program to pair you with an advocate who can accompany you and help with forms or remote submission (some courts accept secure email filing, like St. Charles County). If an order is denied, consult legal aid immediately about appeal or re‑filing with additional facts. (stccountycourts.com, lsem.org)

Shelter and housing options

Start with local hotlines—they know which shelters have open beds this hour.

State directory and hotlines: Missouri DSS DV Shelters & Services page and the Missouri Coalition resource map (via state portal) point to every region. (dss.mo.gov, recovery.mo.gov)
St. Louis region 24/7 hotlines: ALIVE 314-993-2777; Safe Connections 314-531-2003; Women’s Safe House 314-772-4535; St. Martha’s 314-533-1313; YWCA 314-531-7273. (stlouis-mo.gov)
Kansas City region: Hope House 816-461-4673 (HOPE); Newhouse (shelter/programs; call KC metro hotline if unsure); Synergy DV hotline 816-321-7050; KC metro DV hotline 816-468-5463 connects to all regional shelters. (hopehouse.net, newhousekc.org, synergyservices.org)
Springfield/Southwest MO: Harmony House 417-837-7700; The Victim Center 417-863-7273. (search.211helps.org)
Jefferson City/Columbia & surrounding: Rape & Abuse Crisis Service (RACS) 800-303-0013. (ago.mo.gov)
Southeast MO: Safe House for Southeast Missouri 573-335-7745. (search.211helps.org)

Housing protections

VAWA housing rights: If you live in HUD‑assisted housing (public housing, Section 8, some tax credit units), you cannot be evicted or denied assistance because of domestic violence. Ask your property manager for the “Notice of Occupancy Rights under VAWA” and emergency transfer options.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If shelters are full or a landlord is threatening eviction due to violence, call legal aid the same day and ask about emergency transfers under VAWA, lock‑change requests, or court‑ordered removal of the abuser. Use 211 to check motel voucher or rapid rehousing programs in your county. (lawmo.org)

Money while you get safe: SNAP and Temporary Assistance (TANF)

Here are current Missouri amounts and thresholds to help you decide what to file first.

SNAP (Food Stamps) FY2025 maximums (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025)

Household size	Max monthly SNAP
1	$292
2	$536
3	$768
4	$975
5	$1,158
6	$1,390

Source: USDA Food & Nutrition Service FY2025 COLA memo (includes standard deduction $204 * * f or 1-3 p erso nh o u se h o l d s, s h e lt erc a p * *$ 712, and asset limits of $3, 000 * * or * *$ 4,500 if elderly/disabled). (fns.usda.gov)

Gross income test (130% FPL) example: For 3 people, the gross monthly limit is $2, 798 * *; n e t (100$ 2,152. Missouri’s own FY2025 policy adopts these standards. Apply online or call 855-373-4636. (fns.usda.gov, mydss.mo.gov)

Temporary Assistance (TANF cash) maximum monthly grant in Missouri

Missouri’s TANF cash is modest but can stabilize utilities/transport while you secure work and child care. If you’re fleeing domestic violence, ask about work‑requirement waivers.

People in household	Max monthly TANF cash
1	$136
2	$234
3	$292
4	$342
5	$388
6	$431

Official TANF grant chart (also used for diversion payments). Lifetime limit: 45 months in Missouri, with DV‑related extensions possible. Apply online/by phone 855-373-4636. (dssmanuals.mo.gov, mydss.mo.gov)

Work requirement and DV: Missouri notes DV can exempt you from certain Temporary Assistance work activities—ask about a waiver through the Missouri Work Assistance program. (dss.mo.gov)

Application timelines (Missouri Family Support Division)

SNAP: decision within 30 days (some households may get faster service depending on circumstances).
Temporary Assistance: decision within 30 days.
MO HealthNet for Pregnant Women: decision within 15 days.

Call the FSD Information Center at 855-373-4636 with questions. (dss.mo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a decision is late or you’re denied and you believe it’s wrong, request a hearing (appeal rights are in every notice). Ask legal aid to file a fair hearing and consider reapplying with updated documents. (dss.mo.gov)

Health care and counseling

Safety and medical care are covered under several Missouri options.

MO HealthNet income limits (effective April 1, 2025)

Program	Household of 1	Household of 2	Household of 3	Household of 4
MO HealthNet for Pregnant Women (196% FPL)	$30,674/yr	$41,454/yr	$52,234/yr	$63,014/yr
MO HealthNet for Kids under 1 (196% FPL)	$30,674/yr	$41,454/yr	$52,234/yr	$63,014/yr
MO HealthNet for Kids ages 1–18 (148% FPL)	$23,162/yr	$31,302/yr	$39,442/yr	$47,582/yr
Show Me Healthy Babies (300% FPL)	$46,950/yr	$63,450/yr	$79,950/yr	$96,450/yr

Apply online or call 855-373-9994 (pregnancy line) or 855-373-4636 (FSD). (mydss.mo.gov)

988 (Missouri): Call/text 988 anytime; ASL Videophone available; translation in 250+ languages; Missouri has multiple in‑state lifeline centers. (missouri988.org, mogovchallenge.com)
Deaf/Hard of Hearing: Use the 988 Videophone option or Deaf Services resources. VP: dial 988; Deafline Missouri VP 573-303-5604 (9–5), toll‑free 800-380-3323. (dmh.mo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your MO HealthNet application is delayed, call 855-373-4636 to check status and ask your hospital/clinic if they can submit presumptive eligibility (especially during pregnancy). If you’re uninsured, ask legal aid about urgent care debt protections and applying for charity care.

Legal help and victims’ rights

Free civil legal help is available statewide to assist with Orders of Protection, custody, housing, benefits, and safety‑related divorces/custody.

Missouri legal aid contacts

Organization	Region	How to contact
Legal Services of Eastern Missouri	St. Louis & Northeast	314-534-4200 or 800-444-0514; online intake available. (lsem.org)
Legal Aid of Western Missouri	Kansas City, St. Joseph, Joplin, Warrensburg, etc.	816-474-6750 (KC); 800-492-7095 (Joplin); other office numbers on site. (lawmo.org)
Mid‑Missouri Legal Services	Columbia/Jefferson City region	573-442-0116. (mmls.org)
Legal Services of Southern Missouri	Springfield/Southern counties	417-881-1397 (Springfield). (search.211helps.org)

Crime Victims’ Compensation (CVC)

Missouri’s CVC can reimburse certain crime‑related expenses not covered by insurance (medical, counseling, lost wages, funeral, etc.).

Maximum award: $25,000 per claim.
Funeral: up to $5,000.
Lost wages: up to $400/week for crimes on or after Aug 28, 2015.

Full details and eligibility on the Missouri Department of Public Safety site. (dps.mo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If denied or delayed, ask your advocate or legal aid to help appeal. Keep receipts and proof of crime‑related expenses; report the crime promptly when safe to do so (required for CVC).

Keep your address confidential: Safe at Home (Missouri)

Missouri’s Safe at Home Address Confidentiality Program provides a substitute address and mail forwarding so your real address stays off public records (driver’s license, school, court, voter registration).

Phone: 866-509-1409.
How to enroll: Meet with a trained Application Assistant (often in DV programs). It’s free.
What it does: Provides a substitute mailing address and legal service of process address.

Program operated by the Missouri Secretary of State. (sos.mo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you need a same‑day safety address for school enrollment or court filings and can’t complete enrollment yet, ask an advocate or legal aid about immediate safety measures (e.g., motion to redact address in court records) while you complete Safe at Home.

Child support, custody, and cooperation rules (DV protections)

If you receive SNAP, MO HealthNet, or TANF, the state may normally require cooperation with child support. Survivors can claim “good cause” when cooperation would be unsafe or harmful.

Good cause reasons include: risk of physical/emotional harm to you or your child (including as a result of domestic violence), rape/incest, or pending adoption. You’ll be asked to provide evidence if available, but your statement can be accepted when documentation is unavailable. (dssmanuals.mo.gov, dss.mo.gov)
Process: Tell your FSD caseworker you want to claim “good cause” and submit the short form and any proof you have within 20 days (extensions up to 45 days for difficulty). If approved, you won’t be sanctioned for not cooperating, and child support services can be stopped or limited. (casetext.com)
TANF non‑cooperation penalty (if no good cause): State regulations allow a reduction of at least 25% of the TANF grant. (regulations.justia.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your “good cause” is denied, call legal aid immediately to appeal; meanwhile, ask your worker not to contact the other parent if it endangers you (Missouri policy warns staff not to contact the abuser while good‑cause is being reviewed). (dssmanuals.mo.gov)

Diverse communities: tailored tips and resources

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for an LGBTQ‑affirming advocate when you call. 988 still routes to Missouri centers with affirming support despite the national “Press 3” option ending in July 2025. For youth‑specific national support, also consider The Trevor Project along with local Missouri services. Call/text: 988. (axios.com, missouri988.org)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Tell advocates and the court about accessibility needs. Deaf/Hard of Hearing options include 988 Videophone (VP) and Deafline. VP: 988, 800-380-3323 (Deafline). (dmh.mo.gov)
Veteran single mothers: On 988, Press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line. Ask legal aid about discharge upgrades, VA benefits, and protective order enforcement on bases (if applicable). (missouri988.org)
Immigrant/refugee single moms: The National DV Hotline serves callers in 200+ languages and can connect you with immigration‑savvy advocates. You can file for protection orders regardless of immigration status. Call: 800-799-7233. (en.wikipedia.org)
Tribal citizens: If you’re a citizen of a federally recognized tribe living in Missouri, you can still use state courts for Orders of Protection and access DV programs. Ask an advocate to help coordinate with your tribe’s victim services and IHS clinic if you receive care across the border.
Rural single moms: If your county lacks a shelter, call the nearest regional hotline for bed openings and transport; many courts accept after‑hours filings through police or allow secure email submissions (e.g., St. Charles). Use 211 to find county‑level help and transportation. (stccountycourts.com, search.211helps.org)
Single fathers: Missouri services are survivor‑focused, not gender‑restricted. The hotlines and shelters listed above take calls from men and can safety‑plan temporary placements for dads with children.
Language access: For DSS applications, ask for a free interpreter at 855-373-4636; legal aid and hotlines can arrange interpreters at no cost. (mydss.mo.gov)

Regional resource snapshots (selected)

Region	Key 24/7 hotlines and shelters
St. Louis City/County	ALIVE 314-993-2777; Safe Connections 314-531-2003; St. Martha’s 314-533-1313; Women’s Safe House 314-772-4535; YWCA 314-531-7273. (stlouis-mo.gov)
Kansas City metro	KC Metro DV Hotline 816-468-5463; Hope House 816-461-4673; Synergy 816-321-7050; Newhouse (contact via metro hotline or program office). (hopehouse.net, synergyservices.org)
Springfield/Greene County	Harmony House 417-837-7700; The Victim Center 417-863-7273. (search.211helps.org)
Jefferson City/Cole + surrounding	RACS Hotline 800-303-0013. (ago.mo.gov)
Southeast (Cape Girardeau region)	Safe House of Southeast Missouri 573-335-7745. (search.211helps.org)

Quick reference cheat sheet

Immediate danger: 911.
DV advocate now: 800-799-7233 (national) + the regional numbers in the table above.
File an Order of Protection: Courthouse clerk (business hours) or local police (after hours); hearing within 15 days; renewals possible. (revisor.mo.gov)
Confidential address: Safe at Home 866-509-1409. (sos.mo.gov)
Benefits: SNAP maximum for family of 3 is $768 * *; T A NF ma x im u m f or f ami l yo f * * 3 * * i s * *$ 292. Apply at myDSS or call 855-373-4636. (fns.usda.gov, dssmanuals.mo.gov, search.211helps.org)
Legal aid: LSEM 314-534-4200 / 800-444-0514; LAWMO 816-474-6750; MMLS 573-442-0116; LSSM 417-881-1397. (lsem.org, lawmo.org, mmls.org, search.211helps.org)
Crisis line (mental health): 988 (ASL VP available). (missouri988.org)

Application checklist (print or screenshot)

Have these ready if safe to gather. If not available, apply anyway—advocates can help you replace items.

Photo ID(s): You and children (driver’s license, school ID).
Kids’ documents: Birth certificates, Social Security numbers (if known), custody/parentage papers.
Proof of Missouri residence: Lease, utility bill, or letter from shelter/advocate.
Income proof: Recent pay stubs, child support orders, benefit letters.
Expenses: Rent/utility bills (helps SNAP/TANF calculations).
Police/court papers: Incident numbers, ex parte/full orders, photos/messages if safe to store.
Medical: Hospital/clinic records for injuries (also for Crime Victims’ Compensation).

Common mistakes to avoid

Missing your protection‑order hearing: Your petition will likely be dismissed if you don’t attend. Set phone alarms and arrange child care through your advocate. (mmls.org)
Listing your confidential address: Don’t put your current address on forms; ask about Safe at Home. (mmls.org, sos.mo.gov)
Not telling benefits staff about DV: You may qualify for “good cause” so you don’t have to contact the other parent for child support. (dssmanuals.mo.gov)
Waiting to apply: TANF/SNAP/MO HealthNet dates start when you apply, not when you decide. File first; upload documents afterward.
Relying only on texts/social media for evidence: Back up screenshots to a secure email or flash drive you control.

FAQs (Missouri‑specific)

How fast can I get a temporary Order of Protection: Judges can issue an ex parte order the same day if they find present danger; a full hearing is set within 15 days. (revisor.mo.gov)
Do I have to pay court fees to file: No. Petitioners are not charged to file for an Order of Protection in Missouri; legal aid or a DV advocate can help complete forms. (mmls.org)
Can an Order of Protection include temporary custody/support: Yes—ask for it in your petition. Bring kids’ schedules and any safety concerns to the hearing. (See Missouri forms ordered by the Supreme Court.) (news.mobar.org)
What if the sheriff can’t find the abuser to serve papers: Service is prioritized; lack of service doesn’t void the order, and courts can continue the hearing to complete service. (revisor.mo.gov)
I fled and lost my ID. Can I still apply for benefits: Yes. Apply and explain your DV situation. DSS can help verify identity; ask for an interpreter at 855-373-4636 if needed. (mydss.mo.gov)
How much SNAP and TANF can a family of 3 get: Maximum SNAP is $768/ m o n t h * * (F Y 2025); ma x im u m T A NF i s * *$ 292/month. Your actual SNAP depends on income/expenses. (fns.usda.gov, dssmanuals.mo.gov)
Is there financial help for medical bills or counseling after an assault: Yes—the state Crime Victims’ Compensation can reimburse eligible expenses up to $25, 000 * *; f u n er a l u pt o * *$ 5,000. (dps.mo.gov)
Can I keep my new address out of court and school records: Yes—ask about Missouri’s Safe at Home program (866-509-1409) and court redaction options. (sos.mo.gov)
Do DV survivors have to cooperate with child support: You can claim “good cause” if cooperation would be unsafe; provide what proof you can within 20–45 days. (casetext.com)
Who can help me find local resources fast if I can’t get online: Dial 211 from any phone for a live specialist who can search shelter beds, food, utilities, and legal help by ZIP code. (search.211helps.org)

Tables you can use

Table A — DV and crisis hotlines (quick view)

Service	Number	Notes
National DV Hotline	800-799-7233	24/7; multilingual; chat available. (en.wikipedia.org)
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (MO)	988	Call/text/chat; ASL VP available. (missouri988.org)
Deaf Crisis Line (MO)	321-800-3323	Text “HAND” to 839863. (dss.mo.gov)
Safe at Home (MO)	866-509-1409	Address confidentiality program. (sos.mo.gov)
United Way 211	211	Statewide referrals 24/7 (housing, food, utilities). (search.211helps.org)

Table B — Orders of Protection quick facts (Missouri)

Step	Key detail
File	County where you live/abuse occurred/abuser lives or works; free to file. (womenslaw.org)
Ex parte	Possible same day; effective upon judge’s signature/service. (revisor.mo.gov)
Hearing	Within 15 days unless continued. Bring evidence and witnesses. (revisor.mo.gov)
Duration	Full order 180 days–1 year; 2–10 years if serious danger; renewals may reach life of respondent. (revisor.mo.gov)

Table C — SNAP FY2025 maximums (48 states, including MO)

HH size	Max
1	$292
2	$536
3	$768
4	$975
5	$1,158
6	$1,390

Source: USDA FNS FY2025 COLA. (fns.usda.gov)

Table D — Missouri TANF maximum monthly grant

People	Max
1	$136
2	$234
3	$292
4	$342
5	$388
6	$431

Official DSS chart (Aug 2024). (dssmanuals.mo.gov)

Table E — Crime Victims’ Compensation (Missouri) caps

Category	Missouri CVC cap
Total	$25,000
Funeral	$5,000
Lost wages (post‑8/28/2015 crimes)	$400/week

Source: Missouri DPS CVC Guidelines. (dps.mo.gov)

What to expect after you apply (realistic timelines)

Order of Protection: You may receive an ex parte order the same day. The full hearing usually occurs within 15 days. Be ready for continuances if service isn’t completed. (revisor.mo.gov)
SNAP/TANF/MO HealthNet: DSS must act by 15–90 days depending on the program (see timeline table earlier). If you’re in crisis, tell the worker; DV can affect requirements and accommodations. (dss.mo.gov)

Real‑world examples (what this looks like in practice)

Shelter intake when beds are tight: You may be triaged by phone and asked to wait a few hours for a callback. Ask the advocate to note if you have children and if you’re in a car—this can prioritize placement. Use the metro hotline (e.g., Kansas City 816-468-5463) if individual shelters don’t answer. (hopehouse.net)
Filing after hours: In Jackson County, you can file through local police outside business hours; several other counties follow a similar practice. Bring ID if you have it; not having ID does not block you from filing. (16thcircuit.org)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Missouri Department of Social Services, Missouri Department of Public Safety, Missouri Secretary of State, USDA Food and Nutrition Service, Missouri courts, and established nonprofits.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified: September 2025, next review: April 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur—email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 48–72 hours.

Disclaimer

Information changes: Benefit amounts, income limits, and policies can change after publication. Always confirm details on the official websites linked in this guide or by calling the listed agencies.
Not legal advice: This guide provides general information, not legal advice for your specific situation. For legal advice, contact the legal aid organizations listed above.
Safety and privacy: If you share or print this guide, consider your digital safety. Clear browser history and avoid saving forms on shared devices. Keep your device locked and location services off when needed.

Stay safe. If in doubt, call 800-799-7233 or 988—you don’t have to navigate this alone.

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