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

Last updated: September 2025

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Quick Help Box

• 911 for immediate danger and medical emergencies. Tell dispatch if children are present. Response is prioritized.
• National Domestic Violence Hotline 24/7: 1-800-799-7233 (confidential; chat available). (cdhs.colorado.gov)
• 988 Colorado Mental Health Line (statewide): call 988 or 1-844-493-8255; text “TALK” to 38255 for crisis counseling and walk-in locations. As of July 1, 2025, calls/texts to Colorado Crisis Services route through 988. (bha.colorado.gov)
• Legal help and protection orders: see the Colorado Judicial Branch forms and step-by-step instructions; filing fees are waived in domestic violence, stalking, or sexual assault cases. (courts.state.co.us)
• Safe shelter and local advocates: use the statewide map from Violence Free Colorado to find your nearest program. They can safety-plan, help with orders, and connect you to shelter. (violencefreecolorado.org)
• If you need to hide your home, work, or school address: Colorado’s Address Confidentiality Program (ACP) can give you a legal substitute address. ACP phone 303-866-2208 or 1-888-341-0002. (dcs.colorado.gov)

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Emergency First Steps in Colorado

• If you’re in immediate danger: call 911. If you can’t safely talk, leave the line open or ask for help in a few words.
• Call or chat with an advocate: National DV Hotline 1-800-799-7233 can safety-plan, find shelter, and explain options in 200+ languages. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
• Crisis counseling now: call 988 or 1-844-493-8255; text “TALK” to 38255. You can also walk into a Colorado Crisis Services center (Denver, Boulder, Littleton, Fort Collins, Greeley, Colorado Springs, Pueblo, Durango, Montrose). (coloradocrisisservices.org)
• Consider a same-day Temporary Protection Order (TPO): courts can issue TPOs the same day; a full hearing is typically set within 14 days. Filing fees are waived for domestic violence, stalking, and sexual assault. Forms and instructions are online. (courts.state.co.us)
• Document injuries and threats: photos, texts, call logs, medical notes. This can help with protection orders, Crime Victim Compensation, and housing protections later. (dcj.colorado.gov)
• If you’re worried your address could be found: enroll in the Address Confidentiality Program (ACP). Processing takes about 3–4 business days after an Application Assistant submits your packet. ACP gives you a legal substitute address and forwards your first-class mail. (dcs.colorado.gov)
• Realities to expect: finding immediate shelter can be hard on high-demand days; court days can be stressful; service of papers on the abusive person can temporarily raise risk—ask an advocate to safety-plan around these moments. (violencefreecolorado.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Shelter full: ask the advocate for motel vouchers, transportation to another county, or a safety plan to stay with trusted people short-term. Many programs have emergency hotel funds. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
• Can’t reach a program: call the National DV Hotline 1-800-799-7233 or 988. They will connect you to active programs. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
• Courthouse feels unsafe: bring an advocate (legal or community-based), ask court self-help for separate waiting areas, or request phone/video appearance when allowed. (courts.state.co.us)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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Colorado Protection Orders: Fast Path to Safety

• Start here: complete JDF 402 (Verified Complaint/Motion) and follow JDF 400 instructions. If children are involved, add JDF 404. Submit at your local court (county where the incident occurred, where either party lives, or works). TPOs can be issued the same day; a hearing for a permanent order is usually in 14 days. There is no filing fee for cases involving domestic abuse/violence, stalking, or sexual assault. (courts.state.co.us)
• Service of the order: the restrained person must be served with the TPO and your filings by a sheriff, process server, or any adult over 18 not involved in the case. If service can’t be completed before the hearing, file a motion to continue. (courts.state.co.us)
• Keep copies: carry a certified copy of your order; give copies to your child’s school, daycare, and workplace as needed. (courts.state.co.us)
• Safety and firearms: if there are firearm risks, you can also explore an Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO). Colorado has a 24/7 ERPO information line 1-855-999-3776 and statewide court forms online. (dhsem.colorado.gov, coloradojudicial.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Hearing postponed or service not completed: request a continuance; ask an advocate (e.g., Project Safeguard 720-618-3482) for court accompaniment. (psghelps.org)
• Violations occur: call 911; keep logs/screenshots; file JDF 413 (Verified Motion for Contempt). (courts.state.co.us)

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Housing and Safety at Home

Colorado law protects tenants who are survivors.

• Early lease break without penalty beyond a capped amount: if you provide required documentation (police report, valid civil/criminal protection order, or a qualified third-party letter), you may terminate your lease due to imminent danger. You can be charged at most one month’s rent if the landlord documents economic damages. You are not liable for damage caused by the abuser. You may also change locks without landlord retaliation when proper notice/documentation is given. (leg.colorado.gov)
• Eviction protections: domestic violence/abuse can be a defense to “unlawful detention”; landlords cannot penalize you for calling police/911. Colorado’s “cause for eviction” law also limits no-cause removals. (law.justia.com, leg.colorado.gov)
• Plan for service and court mail: if you enroll in ACP, you can use the substitute address for your lease and court records to keep your location private. ACP is your legal agent for service of process and forwards legal documents to you. (dcs.colorado.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Landlord refuses protections: print the legislative summary and statute, and contact a local legal aid office like Colorado Legal Services (apply online) for help enforcing your rights. (coloradolegalservices.org)
• Need immediate relocation funds: apply for Crime Victim Compensation (CVC) and ask specifically about relocation/security expenses (including rekeying). (dcj.colorado.gov)

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Crime Victim Compensation (CVC): Pay for Safety and Healing Costs

• What it covers: medical/dental, mental health counseling, lost wages, funeral costs, dependent care, travel for treatment, relocation expenses, rekeying locks, and replacement of medically necessary devices. Apply in the judicial district where the crime occurred. Typical decision notice is 30–45 days after submission. (dcj.colorado.gov)
• Maximum award: up to $30,000 per victim (some categories have sub-limits set by the local board). Recent law changes removed the strict 72-hour reporting rule and one-year filing deadline; boards may consider “reasonable cooperation” and forensic-exam documentation. Emergency approvals follow each district’s policy. (bouldercounty.gov, leg.colorado.gov)
• How to apply: contact your district’s CVC administrator (full directory on the state site), or call the state help line at 720-672-2166 to be routed. (dcj.colorado.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Denied or reduced: you can request reconsideration/appeal within the time indicated in your denial letter (often 30 days). Add any missing bills, police reports, or advocate letters. (dcj.colorado.gov)

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Colorado Address Confidentiality Program (ACP): Keep Your Location Private

• What you get: a legal substitute address (home, work, and school) and daily mail forwarding of first-class, certified/registered, and legal mail. Participation is valid for 4 years and renewable. ACP is your legal agent for service of process (9 a.m.–3 p.m., Mon–Fri). There is no cost for participants. (dcs.colorado.gov)
• Who qualifies: survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking/harassment, human trafficking, and protected healthcare workers. Evidence can include police reports, protection orders, or a professional letter (e.g., from a medical provider or trained advocate). (dcs.colorado.gov)
• How to enroll: meet with a certified Application Assistant (often your local DV/SA program); once submitted, ACP processes applications in 3–4 business days and mails you authorization cards with your substitute address. ACP main phone 303-866-2208 or 1-888-341-0002; email acp@state.co.us. (dcs.colorado.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Business refuses the substitute address: state and local agencies must accept it; private businesses are encouraged but not required. Ask ACP to advise on best practices or consider a P.O. Box for packages (ACP does not forward packages). (dcs.colorado.gov)

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Food, Health, and Income Support That Survivors Commonly Use

SNAP (Food Assistance)

• Fast track: if your cash on hand is under $100\ast \ast andmonthlyearningsunder\ast \ast$150, or your rent/utility costs exceed income, you may qualify for expedited SNAP within 7 days. Apply via PEAK or in person at your county office. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
• FY 2025 maximum monthly benefit amounts (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025):

Source: USDA FY 2025 SNAP COLA memo. Note the standard deduction for households of 1–3 is $204/month\ast \ast ;homelessshelterdeduction\ast \ast$190.30; shelter cap $712\ast \ast ;assetlimitsare\ast \ast$3,000 (or $4,500 if older adult/disabled). (fns.usda.gov)

• Apply and local help: apply online via PEAK or find your county human services office and phone number on CDHS’s directory (for example: Denver Human Services 720-944-4347; El Paso County 719-636-0000). (cdhs.colorado.gov)

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)

• New income thresholds (Jul 1, 2025–Jun 30, 2026): a family of four may qualify with gross annual income up to $59,478 (185% FPL). WIC is also “adjunctively eligible” for families on SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid. (cdphe.colorado.gov)

Apply via your local WIC clinic or call the Food Resource Hotline 1-855-855-4626. (cdphe.colorado.gov)

Health Coverage: Health First Colorado (Medicaid) and CHP+

• Who likely qualifies (approximate monthly income levels from HCPF): Children 0–18 up to about $3,692\ast \ast forafamilyof4;pregnantpeopleuptoabout\ast \ast$5,070 for a family of 4; CHP+ (for higher incomes) up to about $6,966 for a family of 4 as of April 1, 2025. Apply once through PEAK; coverage decisions consider family size and income. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• If immigration is a concern: the “Cover All Coloradans” law (effective Jan 1, 2025) allows children and pregnant people to access “lookalike” Medicaid/CHP+ benefits regardless of immigration status. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

Paid Leave to Handle Safety Needs

Sources: FAMLI program pages and CDLE HFWA guidance. (famli.colorado.gov, cdle.colorado.gov)

Transportation Help: RTD (Denver Metro)

• LiVE income-based discount: 50% off fares for ages 20+ with income ≤250% FPL; discounted prices include 3-Hour Pass $1.35\ast \ast ,DayPass\ast \ast$2.70, Monthly Pass $27.00. Apply via PEAK; bring income proof and a photo. (rtd-denver.com)
• Youth ride free: RTD’s Zero Fare for Youth is now permanent; ages 19 and under ride at no cost on all RTD services (show school/government ID when asked). (rtd-denver.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• SNAP/WIC processing delays: call your county office, ask for “expedited service” if you have very low cash/income or high shelter costs, and upload documents in PEAK. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
• Medicaid pending and you need care: ask your clinic about Presumptive Eligibility for pregnant people or children, and ask for sliding-fee options. (hcpf.colorado.gov)

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Sexual Assault-Specific Help (for many survivors, abuse overlaps)

• Medical forensic exam costs: Colorado’s SAVE Program pays routine costs for sexual assault medical forensic exams for medical and anonymous reporting victims, up to $5,000 per incident in FY 2024 (contact the program to confirm current cap). (dcj.colorado.gov)
• Know your reporting options: Colorado’s “You Have the Right” project explains confidential support, SANE/FNE programs, and choices to report now, later, or not at all. It includes an interactive map of resources. (youhavetherightco.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Clinic can’t answer billing questions: call the SAVE Program contact listed by the Division of Criminal Justice for guidance. (dcj.colorado.gov)

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Local, On-the-Ground Help in Colorado

These trusted programs serve many single mothers statewide. If one program is busy, call another nearby or use the statewide map for your county.

• Denver Metro:
  • Rose Andom Center — family justice center with multi-agency services; main line 720-337-4400; address confidentiality, legal advocacy connections, childcare during services. (roseandomcenter.org)
  • SafeHouse Denver – 24/7 Crisis & Information Line 303-318-9989; emergency shelter and non-residential counseling. (safehouse-denver.org)
  • Project Safeguard — legal advocacy for protection orders, divorce/custody clinics; advocate line 720-618-3482. (psghelps.org)
• Colorado Springs/Pikes Peak:
  • TESSA — Safe Line 719-633-3819; bilingual advocates; support groups, legal advocacy, shelter. (tessacs.org)
• Statewide directories:
  • Violence Free Colorado – Programs by County (click your county; includes 24/7 lines and shelter info). (violencefreecolorado.org)
  • Colorado Domestic Violence Program (CDHS) — links to local DV/SA services; note that CDHS funds programs but does not provide direct crisis services. (cdhs.colorado.gov)

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Tables You Can Scan Fast

Protection Orders – What to Expect

Address Confidentiality Program – Quick Facts

Colorado FAMLI vs. HFWA – Safe Leave Snapshot

SNAP – FY 2025 Maximum Monthly Benefits (CO)

Plus $220 for each additional member; expedited processing in 7 days if you qualify. (fns.usda.gov, cdhs.colorado.gov)

WIC – Income Limits (Jul 1, 2025–Jun 30, 2026)

Source: CDPHE press release; WIC is adjunctively eligible if you already get SNAP/TANF/Medicaid. (cdphe.colorado.gov)

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Child Support When Safety Is a Concern

• You have options: Colorado Child Support Services (CSS) can modify processes to protect safety. If you receive Colorado Works (TANF), you may request Good Cause not to cooperate when seeking support would put you or your children at risk. (childsupport.state.co.us)
• If you do want support: ask your county CSS about separate appointment times, security escorts, or virtual hearings. You can also mark your case with a family-violence indicator to restrict information sharing. FSR Customer Service: Denver 303-299-9123; nationwide 1-800-374-6558. (childsupport.state.co.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Safety feels compromised: talk with your CSS worker about closing the case, explore Good Cause if you’re on Colorado Works, and connect with a DV legal advocate (e.g., Project Safeguard 720-618-3482). (childsupport.state.co.us, psghelps.org)

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Diverse Communities

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: ask for programs with affirming services and language access. Many centers (e.g., Rose Andom Center) offer interpretation and inclusive services; the Violence Free Colorado map lists agencies serving LGBTQIA survivors. (roseandomcenter.org, violencefreecolorado.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: when applying for CVC, note accessible transportation costs and replacement services; counties may prioritize disability-related needs. For crisis care, 988/Colorado Crisis Services provides TTY and walk-in support. (dcj.colorado.gov, coloradocrisisservices.org)
• Veteran single mothers: ask advocates to help coordinate VA health benefits with CVC and protection orders; DV and stalking are grounds for safe leave under FAMLI/HFWA. (famli.colorado.gov, cdle.colorado.gov)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: you can get DV help regardless of immigration status; for health care, “Cover All Coloradans” extends lookalike Medicaid/CHP+ to children and pregnant people regardless of status. ACP also accepts professional letters if police reporting is unsafe. (hcpf.colorado.gov, dcs.colorado.gov)
• Tribal-specific resources: use the Violence Free Colorado map and “You Have the Right” site to locate programs serving Native communities; CVC can cover travel from rural/tribal areas for exams or counseling. (violencefreecolorado.org, youhavetherightco.org)
• Rural single moms: if shelter is full locally, advocates can arrange motel vouchers or transport to another county; Colorado’s crisis line can locate the nearest open bed. ACP keeps your new location private if you must move. (cdhs.colorado.gov, dcs.colorado.gov)
• Single fathers: most services listed are for all survivors regardless of gender; the laws and benefits (CVC, ACP, protection orders) apply equally. Sources noted throughout this guide. (dcj.colorado.gov)
• Language access: statewide hotlines and many centers provide interpreters (e.g., Rose Andom offers Spanish and 200+ languages; TESSA provides Spanish). If a program cannot provide your language, ask for Language Line or a referral. (roseandomcenter.org, tessacs.org)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting to ask for a TPO: if you fear immediate harm, file for a TPO now—same-day orders are available and fees are waived in DV/SA cases. (courts.state.co.us)
• Listing your real address on court forms: check the confidentiality box on JDF 402 and consider ACP before filing. (courts.state.co.us, dcs.colorado.gov)
• Missing the permanent-order hearing: if you don’t show, the TPO expires. If service isn’t complete, file a motion to continue before the hearing date. (courts.state.co.us)
• Not asking for relocation/security costs: CVC may pay for moving, locks, and travel; ask your local CVC admin how to document these expenses. (dcj.colorado.gov)
• Skipping safe leave: talk to your employer or apply through FAMLI. You can use paid time to attend court, meet with advocates, or relocate. (famli.colorado.gov, cdle.colorado.gov)

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Application Checklist

• Protection Order: JDF 402, JDF 404 (if kids), incident timeline, screenshots/photos, addresses for service, safe mailing contact (or ACP card). (courts.state.co.us)
• ACP: Application Assistant appointment, evidence (police report/protection order/professional letter), safe mailing address, ID or info for all household members; expect 3–4 business days for processing. (dcs.colorado.gov)
• CVC: application for the correct judicial district, bills/receipts, proof of crime report or forensic exam, employer letter for lost wages, lease or lock change receipts for relocation/security claims. Decision typically in 30–45 days. (dcj.colorado.gov)
• SNAP: ID, proof of income/expenses (rent, utilities, childcare), EBT mailing address; ask for “expedited service” if you qualify for 7-day processing. (cdhs.colorado.gov)
• WIC: ID, address, income proof or proof of adjunct eligibility (SNAP/TANF/Medicaid), appointment for eWIC benefits. (cdphe.colorado.gov)
• FAMLI/HFWA: basic documentation for leave (your attestation and scheduling details); check employer policies and apply through My FAMLI+. (famli.colorado.gov)

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Ten Colorado FAQs for Single Moms

• How fast can I get a protection order: TPOs can be issued the same day you file; hearings for permanent orders are usually set within 14 days. Filing fees are waived in DV/stalking/SA cases. (courts.state.co.us)
• Can I keep my address off court forms: yes—check the confidentiality box on JDF 402 and consider enrolling in ACP to use a legal substitute address. (courts.state.co.us, dcs.colorado.gov)
• Do I have to report to police to get help paying bills: not always. CVC now considers documentation such as a forensic exam and “reasonable cooperation” with law enforcement; the strict 72-hour reporting rule and one-year filing deadline were removed. (leg.colorado.gov)
• What’s the maximum CVC benefit: up to $30,000 per victim, with board-set category caps. Ask your local CVC about relocation, counseling, and wage-loss caps. (bouldercounty.gov)
• Can I break my lease if I’m in danger: yes—with required documentation, you can terminate; at most you may owe one month’s rent if the landlord documents losses, and you’re not liable for damage caused by the abuser. You can also change locks. (leg.colorado.gov)
• Can the court take the abuser’s guns: you can seek an Extreme Risk Protection Order. Forms are online; info line 1-855-999-3776. (coloradojudicial.gov, dhsem.colorado.gov)
• How fast is SNAP: if you qualify for expedited processing, within 7 days. The FY 2025 max for a family of 4 is $975. (cdhs.colorado.gov, fns.usda.gov)
• Is there paid time off to handle abuse: yes—FAMLI safe leave (paid) and HFWA paid sick/safe leave. You can use this time for court, moving, counseling, or meeting advocates. (famli.colorado.gov, cdle.colorado.gov)
• Can I get child support safely: ask CSS for safety accommodations; if you’re on Colorado Works (TANF), you can request Good Cause not to cooperate when it’s unsafe. (childsupport.state.co.us)
• What if I need confidential mail: enroll in ACP; processing is 3–4 business days once submitted by an Application Assistant. (dcs.colorado.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Colorado Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, 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 72 hours.

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Disclaimer

• Information changes: amounts, eligibility, and program rules can change after publication. Always verify with linked agencies before applying or acting.
• Not legal advice: this guide is general information, not legal or medical advice. For case-specific guidance, contact a licensed attorney or medical professional.
• Your safety first: clear your browsing history and use safer devices/networks when researching sensitive topics. We work to keep our website secure, but you should always use common-sense digital safety and avoid saving sensitive info on shared devices.

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Sources

• Protection orders and forms: Colorado Judicial Branch – instructions, forms, fees, service, timelines. (courts.state.co.us)
• Housing protections for survivors: Colorado statutes and 2025 legislative updates on lease termination, lock changes, and eviction defenses. (leg.colorado.gov, law.justia.com)
• Crime Victim Compensation: OVP/DCJ program overview, local contacts, filing timelines; Boulder County cap confirms $30,000. (dcj.colorado.gov, bouldercounty.gov)
• Address Confidentiality Program: Colorado DCS – eligibility, services, processing time, contact details. (dcs.colorado.gov)
• Crisis lines: National DV Hotline; Colorado Crisis Services/988 consolidation (2025). (cdhs.colorado.gov, bha.colorado.gov)
• Shelter/advocacy directories: Violence Free Colorado – programs by county; CDHS DVP resources for community members. (violencefreecolorado.org, cdhs.colorado.gov)
• Denver Metro programs: Rose Andom Center; SafeHouse Denver; TESSA (Colorado Springs); Project Safeguard. (roseandomcenter.org, safehouse-denver.org, tessacs.org, psghelps.org)
• SNAP benefits and deductions (FY 2025): USDA FNS COLA memo. (fns.usda.gov)
• WIC income guidelines (2025–26): CDPHE press release. (cdphe.colorado.gov)
• Health coverage: HCPF Cover All Coloradans FAQ; CHP+ income thresholds. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
• Paid leave: FAMLI safe leave; CDLE HFWA paid sick/safe leave. (famli.colorado.gov, cdle.colorado.gov)
• RTD: LiVE 50% discount and prices; Zero Fare for Youth program. (rtd-denver.com)
• CDHS data on service volume: DVP-funded organizations answered 65,000+ calls and helped nearly 21,000 people (Oct 2022–Sep 2023). (cdhs.colorado.gov)

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What to do next

• Pick one action you can take today: file for a TPO, call an advocate, or enroll in ACP. Use paid safe leave if you need time to get it done.
• Ask for help: the programs above handle these steps every day. You do not have to navigate this alone.

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🏛️More Colorado Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Colorado

• 📋 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