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Domestic Violence Resources and Safety for Single Mothers in Georgia

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

Last updated: September 2025

If you need urgent help, scroll to the Emergency Help box and act on the first two lines now.


Emergency Help — Quick Action Box

  • Call 911: If you or your children are in immediate danger. Be as brief as possible and say your location first.
  • Call Georgia’s 24‑Hour Domestic Violence Hotline: 1‑800‑334‑2836 (1‑800‑33‑HAVEN) for confidential, free help 24/7 in any language. You’ll be routed to the nearest certified shelter. (gcadv.org)
  • Text or Chat if calling isn’t safe: Use the National Domestic Violence Hotline chat at thehotline.org or text “START” to 88788. If you need Georgia‑specific shelter routing, call the state hotline above. (en.wikipedia.org)
  • If you’re homeless or about to be: Call the Georgia Balance of State Coordinated Entry hotline 1‑844‑249‑8367 for shelter and rapid re‑housing access. (dca.ga.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Topic What to do first Key contact
Protective Order (TPO) Go to your county Superior Court Clerk the same day and ask to file a Family Violence Petition. Hearing is set within 30 days. Georgia TPO How‑To on Georgia.gov; State Hotline 1‑800‑334‑2836. (georgia.gov)
Shelter and Safety Planning Call 1‑800‑334‑2836 to be routed to the nearest certified DV shelter for beds, safety planning, and legal advocacy. Georgia Coalition Against Domestic Violence (GCADV). (gcadv.org)
Rent and moving help Ask the shelter advocate to screen you for ESG Rapid Re‑Housing and Prevention funds via Coordinated Entry 1‑844‑249‑8367. GA Dept. of Community Affairs (DCA). (dca.georgia.gov, dca.ga.gov)
Medical bills, counseling, lost wages after abuse Apply to Georgia Crime Victims Compensation up to $25,000 total with category caps below. CJCC Victims Compensation Program. (crimevictimscomp.ga.gov, cjcc.georgia.gov)
Food today Apply for SNAP online; expedited SNAP can load in 7 days if you qualify. DFCS SNAP line 1‑877‑423‑4746; details below. (georgia.gov, dfcs.georgia.gov)
Child care so you can work or attend court Ask for CAPS DV priority placement and 45‑day documentation grace period. DECAL CAPS 1‑833‑442‑2277. (decal.ga.gov)
Keep your address private Use VoteSafe confidentiality for voters now; a full state Address Confidentiality Program starts July 1, 2026. DDS VoteSafe page; O.C.G.A. SB 324 (effective 2026). (dds.georgia.gov, gcadv.org)
Quit job for safety You can get unemployment if you left due to family violence with documentation. O.C.G.A. § 34‑8‑194. (law.justia.com)

What the numbers show in Georgia right now

  • Family violence incidents reported in 2024: 42,184, a 12% increase from 2023.
  • Domestic‑violence‑related fatalities in 2024: 159 known deaths; about 4 in 5 involved a firearm.
  • Murder‑suicide incidents in 2024: 42 incidents, 84 fatalities.
  • Crisis calls answered by certified DV agencies in 2024: 110,001.

These figures come from the Georgia Commission on Family Violence 2025 Annual Fact Sheet (published May 2025). (gcfv.georgia.gov)

How to get a Temporary Protective Order (TPO) fast

Start here even if you plan to leave later. A TPO can order the abuser to stay away, leave the home, and can include temporary custody and child support.

  • Step 1: Go to your county Superior Court Clerk and ask to file under the Family Violence Act. There is no filing fee. Petitions are filed in the county where the respondent lives. (georgia.gov)
  • Step 2: Request an emergency ex parte order the same day. A judge may grant an order that lasts until the full hearing. Service on the respondent is handled by the sheriff. (georgia.gov)
  • Step 3: Attend the full hearing within 30 days. Bring evidence and witnesses. If you don’t appear, your case can be dismissed. Orders commonly last 6–12 months and can be extended or made longer‑term. (georgia.gov)
  • Step 4: Add child support and custody terms if needed using the court’s child support addendum for Family Violence orders. Forms and petitions are fillable PDFs statewide. (gsccca.org, gasupreme.us)
  • Where to find forms: Statewide family violence petitions and orders are posted by the Georgia Superior Court Clerks’ Cooperative Authority. Use the “Petition for Temporary Protective Order” and related attachments. (gsccca.org)

What to bring

  • Proof of identity: License or other photo ID.
  • Information about the respondent: Full name, date of birth if known, home and work addresses.
  • Evidence: Photos of injuries or damage, threatening texts, prior police reports, medical records, witness names.
  • A safe mailing address: If you’re in a shelter, ask about using the shelter address. (georgia.gov)

Timelines you can expect

  • Ex parte review: Often same day.
  • Service by sheriff: Varies by county and ability to locate respondent; ask the clerk how to check status.
  • Full hearing: Set within 30 days of filing. (georgia.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Relying on texts alone: Screenshots help, but add dates, context, and witnesses if possible.
  • Not asking for all protections: You can request stay‑away distances, exclusive use of residence, temporary custody, child support, and firearm surrender where applicable.
  • Skipping the hearing: The order can be dropped if you don’t attend. Arrange child care through shelter advocates or CAPS priority if needed. (decal.ga.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Get an advocate: Call 1‑800‑334‑2836 and ask for court accompaniment or legal advocacy. Many shelters can send someone with you. (gcadv.org)
  • Try another access point: Some counties have dedicated domestic violence help desks or “Safe Families” offices inside the courthouse. Check your county court website or ask GCADV to connect you. (fultonsuperiorcourtga.gov)

TPO Process — At‑a‑Glance Timeline

Stage What happens Deadline
File petition Clerk accepts your forms; judge may review same day Same day in many counties
Ex parte order Judge may issue temporary order and send to sheriff for service As soon as practicable
Service Sheriff serves respondent; order becomes enforceable upon service Varies by county
Full hearing You present evidence; judge decides temporary order Within 30 days of filing (georgia.gov)
Duration Typical order length 6–12 months; can be extended (georgia.gov)

Housing and staying safe where you live

  • Early lease termination for safety: Georgia law lets you break a residential lease 30 days after giving written notice if you have a civil or criminal family‑violence or stalking order protecting you or your child. Attach a copy of the order; if it’s an ex parte order, include a police report. You owe prorated rent through the termination date and past‑due amounts, but no early‑termination fees. The landlord cannot waive these rights in a lease. Cite O.C.G.A. § 44‑7‑23. (law.justia.com)
  • Shelter and rapid re‑housing: Call the statewide hotline 1‑800‑334‑2836 for certified shelters; ask the advocate to screen you for ESG Rapid Re‑Housing or Prevention funds via Coordinated Entry at 1‑844‑249‑8367. These can cover deposits, short‑term rent, and housing navigation. (gcadv.org, dca.ga.gov)
  • VAWA protections: If you’re in federally assisted housing, you have specific rights related to safety and lease protections. Ask a shelter advocate to help you notify your Public Housing Agency. (Your advocate will use federal VAWA forms your PHA provides.)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Moving without notice: You may stay liable for rent unless you follow the 30‑day notice rule with proper documentation. (law.justia.com)
  • Not using Coordinated Entry: Many rent funds flow through this system statewide. Call 1‑844‑249‑8367 even if you’re outside big cities. (dca.ga.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Ask for hotel vouchers: Some ESG partners use short‑term hotel/motel vouchers when shelters are full. Availability changes weekly. (dca.georgia.gov)
  • Apply for Crime Victims Compensation relocation: See the money section below for caps and deadlines. (crimevictimscomp.ga.gov)

Money you may qualify for after abuse

Georgia Crime Victims Compensation Program (CJCC)

If the abuse resulted in injuries, counseling needs, lost income, or a death in the family, Georgia can help cover costs after other sources pay first.

  • Maximum total award: $25,000 per victim per victimization.
  • Category caps:
    • Medical up to $15,000
    • Funeral up to $6,000
    • Counseling up to $3,000
    • Lost wages up to $10,000
    • Loss of support up to $10,000
    • Crime scene cleanup up to $1,500 (crimevictimscomp.ga.gov, cjcc.georgia.gov)
  • Deadlines: Report to law enforcement within 72 hours unless you have good cause. File your claim within 3 years of the crime or victim’s death (longer if the victim was a minor). (cjcc.georgia.gov)
  • How to apply: Download the application and mail the complete packet (with police report) to 104 Marietta St NW, Suite 440, Atlanta, GA 30303, or use the portal. (crimevictimscomp.ga.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Waiting too long: Missing the 72‑hour report window or 3‑year filing limit can block your claim without good cause. (cjcc.georgia.gov)
  • Skipping bills: Submit bills and EOBs quickly; compensation is a payer of last resort.

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Ask a shelter advocate to help appeal: Many shelters have staff trained on CJCC paperwork and can request reconsideration.

Food, cash, child care, and health supports tied to safety

SNAP (Food Stamps) — including expedited SNAP

  • Maximum monthly SNAP amounts, Oct 2024–Sep 2025 (48 states, incl. GA):
Household size Max SNAP
1 $292
2 $536
3 $768
4 $975
5 $1,158
6 $1,390
7 $1,536
8 $1,756
Each add’l $220

USDA FY2025 COLA. (fns.usda.gov)

  • Shelter deduction and homeless deduction: The excess shelter cap is 712∗∗;thehomelessshelterdeductionis∗∗712**; the homeless shelter deduction is **190.30. (fns.usda.gov)
  • Income standards (gross 130% FPL for most): Example for size 3 is $2,798 per month gross. See full USDA table. (fns.usda.gov)
  • Expedited processing: If your income and assets are very low, you may get benefits within 7 days. Apply online or by phone with DFCS. (georgia.gov)
  • Where to apply: Online at Georgia Gateway or call DFCS at 1‑877‑423‑4746. Language assistance is free. (dfcs.georgia.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Using your home address when it’s unsafe: You can use a shelter, trusted P.O. box, or DFCS mailing option. Ask an advocate.
  • Not telling DFCS you fled domestic violence: SNAP interviewers can code your case correctly for homeless deduction and protect info. (dfcs.georgia.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Call DFCS Constituent Services via the main line 1‑877‑423‑4746 and request a supervisor call‑back if your expedited case stalls past 7 days. (dfcs.georgia.gov)

WIC for moms, infants, and children under 5

  • Income eligibility: Georgia WIC follows federal 185% of poverty; the state posted 2025–2026 income limits effective July 1, 2025. See the DPH page for monthly amounts by family size. Participant help line 1‑800‑228‑9173. (dph.georgia.gov)
  • Cash Value Benefit (fruits/vegetables) monthly amounts through Sep 2025: Children 26**, pregnant & postpartum **47, fully or mostly breastfeeding $52. (fns.usda.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Missing your WIC appointment: Tell the clinic if you’re hiding or moved shelters; they can reschedule or transfer you. (dph.georgia.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Ask the shelter to call the clinic: Many clinics fast‑track appointments for DV survivors when a shelter advocate calls. (dph.georgia.gov)

TANF cash assistance — with Family Violence waivers

Georgia TANF provides small monthly cash payments and job services. For survivors, Georgia has adopted the Family Violence Option, which lets DFCS waive certain rules for safety. (pamms.dhs.ga.gov)

  • Typical maximum monthly TANF “Family Maximum” benefits (effective March 2025):
Assistance Unit size Monthly maximum
1 $155
2 $235
3 $280
4 $330
5 $378
6 $410
7 $444
8 $470
9 $496
10 $530
11 $568

Plus small increases per additional person. See DFCS TANF Appendix A for full table. (pamms.dhs.ga.gov)

  • Family Violence waivers: DFCS can temporarily waive child support cooperation, work requirements, and time‑limit rules when complying would put you at risk. Reviews occur at least every 6 months (often sooner). (pamms.dhs.ga.gov)
  • How to apply: Apply at Georgia Gateway or your local DFCS office; interviews can be by phone. DFCS main line 1‑877‑423‑4746. (dfcs.georgia.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Not disclosing danger to your worker: Say you need a Family Violence waiver so your case gets flagged for a Domestic Violence Assessor. (pamms.dhs.ga.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Ask for supervisor or DV Assessor review: You can request reconsideration of sanctions or missed appointments related to safety. (pamms.dhs.ga.gov)

Child Care (CAPS) — priority for domestic violence and homelessness

  • Priority access: Families experiencing domestic violence or who lack fixed housing are priority groups. CAPS gives a 45‑day grace period to turn in documents. (decal.ga.gov)
  • Income rules: Initial eligibility uses State Median Income standards as defined in CAPS policy; families can remain eligible up to 85% of State Median Income at redetermination. The exact dollar limits are in DECAL’s Appendix A chart. For current figures by family size, ask CAPS or see Appendix A in the CAPS manual. CAPS Support 1‑833‑442‑2277. (decal.ga.gov)
  • Family fees: Sliding‑scale fees apply; discounts for Quality Rated providers changed in late 2024. Check the Family Fees policy. (decal.ga.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Skipping CAPS because of paperwork: Use the 45‑day grace period and submit what you have; shelter letters can verify residency. (decal.ga.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Ask a shelter advocate to email CAPS: Advocates can help document DV or homelessness for priority handling. (decal.ga.gov)

Health coverage

  • Medicaid for kids and pregnancy: Georgia’s 2025 income limits for children and pregnancy are posted by DFCS; children’s limits range by age band and program. If you lost coverage while fleeing, update your address and contact info at staycovered.ga.gov or via Gateway. (pamms.dhs.ga.gov, staycovered.ga.gov)

Employment and income protections tied to safety

  • Unemployment Insurance after leaving due to abuse: Georgia recognizes “good cause” for quitting due to family violence when documented by a shelter letter or related proof. You can claim UI without charging your former employer. Cite O.C.G.A. § 34‑8‑194. (law.justia.com)
  • Time off for court: Employers cannot fire or punish you for going to court when you’re required by subpoena or court order. Tell your employer in advance and keep documentation. Cite O.C.G.A. § 34‑1‑3. (law.justia.com)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Quitting without documentation: Get a shelter letter or police report stating employment jeopardized your safety. (law.justia.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Appeal UI denials: Request a hearing and bring your DV documentation. Legal aid may be able to help (see below).

Keep your address and records safer

  • VoteSafe voter address confidentiality: If you have a protective order or live in a family violence shelter, you can keep your voter registration address confidential for 4 years. Contact the Secretary of State Elections Division 404‑656‑2871 or see DDS VoteSafe guidance. (dds.georgia.gov, law.justia.com)
  • Georgia Address Confidentiality Program: A statewide program was authorized and is set to begin July 1, 2026 upon funding, through the Secretary of State. Until then, use VoteSafe and safety planning with advocates. (gcadv.org)

Local legal help and advocacy

  • Find a certified shelter program near you: GCADV maintains the list and can route you by city. Examples include PADV (Atlanta), liveSAFE Resources (Marietta), Safe Homes of Augusta, Project Safe (Athens), SAFE Shelter (Savannah), and more. Start with the hotline 1‑800‑334‑2836 or browse programs by city. (gcadv.org)
  • Court forms and guidance: Statewide family violence and stalking forms are online; your clerk can also provide them. (gsccca.org)

Real‑world example — how a TPO plus benefits can work

  • Keisha from Macon: She called 1‑800‑334‑2836, got a shelter bed, and the advocate went with her to the Superior Court Clerk to file a petition. She received an ex parte order the same day and a full hearing within 30 days. The shelter helped her apply for SNAP with expedited processing in 7 days, enroll her toddler in CAPS with DV priority, and submit a Crime Victims Compensation claim for counseling and lost wages. These exact steps are common and supported by the programs and rules linked throughout this guide. (georgia.gov, decal.ga.gov, crimevictimscomp.ga.gov)

Financial help summary — Georgia amounts and contacts

Program What it pays Key numbers
Crime Victims Compensation Medical up to 15,000∗∗,counseling∗∗15,000**, counseling **3,000, funeral 6,000∗∗,lostwages∗∗6,000**, lost wages **10,000, loss of support 10,000∗∗,cleanup∗∗10,000**, cleanup **1,500, max $25,000. Apply via CJCC. Report within 72 hours; file within 3 years. (crimevictimscomp.ga.gov, cjcc.georgia.gov)
TANF Monthly cash; family maximum for 3 is $280; waivers for DV. Apply DFCS/Gateway; ask for Family Violence waiver. (pamms.dhs.ga.gov)
SNAP Max for 3 is 768∗∗;for4is∗∗768**; for 4 is **975; expedited in 7 days if eligible. Apply at Gateway or call 1‑877‑423‑4746. (fns.usda.gov, georgia.gov)
WIC Fruits/veggies monthly CVB: child 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47, breastfeeding $52. DPH WIC help line 1‑800‑228‑9173. (fns.usda.gov, dph.georgia.gov)
CAPS Child care scholarships with DV and homelessness priority; 45‑day document grace. CAPS 1‑833‑442‑2277. (decal.ga.gov)

Diverse Communities — specific help and tips

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers: Many shelters are inclusive and will not turn you away based on sexual orientation or gender identity. The state hotline has interpreter services and will route you to an affirming provider. Ask for safety planning around outing threats. Hotline: 1‑800‑334‑2836. (gcadv.org)
  • Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Tell advocates about mobility, communication, or sensory needs. WIC and Medicaid have disability accommodations, and shelters can arrange accessible rooms or remote court appearances when available. WIC participants line: 1‑800‑228‑9173. (dph.georgia.gov)
  • Veteran single mothers: Ask your VA medical center for the Intimate Partner Violence Assistance Program (IPVAP) coordinator while also using the Georgia hotline for local shelter placement.
  • Immigrant and refugee single moms: Shelters serve you regardless of immigration status. You may qualify for U‑Visa or VAWA self‑petition protections. Ask the advocate for a referral to immigration‑trained legal aid. Use the statewide hotline 1‑800‑334‑2836 to find a culturally specific program. (gcadv.org)
  • Tribal citizens: StrongHearts Native Helpline can offer culturally grounded support and safety planning, and GCADV can route you to the nearest Georgia shelter. Combine national support with local placement by calling 1‑800‑334‑2836 in Georgia for beds. (gcadv.org)
  • Rural single moms: If you can’t safely travel, ask for phone or virtual court options and use the Balance of State Coordinated Entry 1‑844‑249‑8367 for shelter and rehousing in your region. (dca.ga.gov)
  • Single fathers: Many Georgia shelters will assist men with safety planning, hotel vouchers, and legal advocacy even if on‑site beds are limited. Call the hotline 1‑800‑334‑2836 and ask for the nearest program that serves men, plus Coordinated Entry for alternatives. (gcadv.org)
  • Language access: Statewide hotline and DFCS provide free interpreters. When you apply for SNAP or TANF by phone, say your language first. DFCS: 1‑877‑423‑4746. (dfcs.georgia.gov)

Resources by region — selected programs

  • Atlanta area — Partnership Against Domestic Violence (PADV): 24/7 support via state hotline 1‑800‑334‑2836; services include shelter, legal advocacy, and support groups. (gcadv.org)
  • Marietta/Cobb — liveSAFE Resources (YWCA of Northwest GA): Shelter, counseling, and legal help. Access via the state hotline. (gcadv.org)
  • Athens — Project Safe: Shelter, outreach, and legal advocacy. Use hotline routing or see GCADV list. (gcadv.org)
  • Augusta — Safe Homes of Augusta: Shelter and services; call the state hotline for bed availability. (gcadv.org)
  • Savannah — SAFE Shelter: Crisis line and residential services; connect through 1‑800‑334‑2836. (gcadv.org)
  • Gainesville — Gateway House: Shelter and legal advocacy. Use GCADV list to contact. (gcadv.org)
  • Valdosta — The Haven: Shelter and outreach; routed via the state hotline. (gcadv.org)
  • Rome — Hospitality House for Women: Shelter and court support. (gcadv.org)

Child support safety

If opening or enforcing child support could put you at risk, ask about DCSS’s survivor‑focused SAVES services.

  • What SAVES offers: Private application help, safety precautions on your case, advocate presence at court, and options for virtual hearings. Contact DCSS or email the SAVES team. Main customer line 1‑877‑423‑4746. (childsupport.georgia.gov)
  • Good cause to not cooperate with child support during TANF: DFCS can waive cooperation if it endangers you; tell your TANF worker. (pamms.dhs.ga.gov)

Quick safety planning tips

  • Phone safety: Use a safe phone to call 1‑800‑334‑2836. If you can’t, delete call logs and disable location sharing. (gcadv.org)
  • Paper trail: Keep copies of orders and key documents with a friend, in your car, or stored safely online.
  • School and work: Provide a copy of your order to the school and HR with a photo of the respondent if possible; ask for safety protocols at pickup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not telling agencies about danger: Whether it’s DFCS, DCSS, or the court, say out loud that you’re experiencing domestic violence so staff can apply waivers, privacy flags, and safety steps. (pamms.dhs.ga.gov, childsupport.georgia.gov)
  • Missing key deadlines: Crime Victims Compensation requires reporting within 72 hours and filing within 3 years; TPO hearings must be attended within 30 days of filing. Put reminders in your phone and ask an advocate to call you the day before. (cjcc.georgia.gov, georgia.gov)
  • Relying on non‑official info: Use the official pages linked in this guide to avoid outdated policies.

Application Checklist — documents to gather fast

  • Identity: Photo ID if available.
  • Proof of residence or safe mailing address: Shelter letter, P.O. box, or trusted address.
  • Children’s documents: Birth certificates, Social Security numbers if you have them.
  • Income and expenses: Recent pay stubs, rent or shelter letters, utility bills, child care receipts, medical bills.
  • Evidence of abuse: Police incident number, photos, medical records, threatening messages.
  • Court paperwork: Any prior protective orders or custody orders.

Georgia DV laws and policies worth knowing

  • TPO basics: No filing fee; ex parte possible; full hearing within 30 days; orders often 6–12 months. (georgia.gov)
  • Lease termination for safety: Written 30‑day notice with documentation; no early‑termination penalties beyond prorated rent and past‑due amounts. (law.justia.com)
  • Unemployment after DV‑related quitting: Allowed with documentation; employer not charged. (law.justia.com)
  • Court attendance job protection: Employers can’t punish you for attending a required court proceeding. (law.justia.com)

Frequently Asked Questions — Georgia specific

  1. How fast can I get a TPO in Georgia: Same‑day ex parte orders are possible; full hearing is within 30 days. (georgia.gov)
  2. Is there a cost to file a TPO: No. There is no filing fee for Family Violence Protective Orders. (georgia.gov)
  3. Can my lease be broken without fees if I have a TPO: Yes. With 30‑day written notice and proper documentation under O.C.G.A. § 44‑7‑23. (law.justia.com)
  4. What if I quit my job because of safety: You may qualify for unemployment benefits due to family violence with documentation. (law.justia.com)
  5. How much can Georgia Crime Victims Compensation pay: Up to $25,000 total, with category caps listed above. (crimevictimscomp.ga.gov)
  6. How soon can SNAP start: If you qualify for expedited service, within 7 days. (georgia.gov)
  7. Is there a Georgia Address Confidentiality Program now: A statewide program begins July 1, 2026 upon funding; use VoteSafe and shelter privacy steps until then. (gcadv.org, dds.georgia.gov)
  8. Can I get child care quickly to attend court or work: Yes. CAPS treats domestic violence and homelessness as priority groups and gives a 45‑day grace period to submit verification. (decal.ga.gov)
  9. Where do I find official protective order forms: The Georgia Superior Court Clerks’ Cooperative Authority posts fillable forms statewide. (gsccca.org)
  10. Who can help me keep child support actions safer: Ask DCSS for the SAVES program for safety precautions and private assistance. (childsupport.georgia.gov)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Georgia 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.

Disclaimer

Safety and accuracy: Program rules, amounts, and timelines can change. Always confirm details with the relevant agency before acting.

Health and legal: This guide is general information, not legal or medical advice. Talk with an attorney or clinician for advice on your situation.

Site security: Do not share sensitive information on public or shared devices. Clear browser history after visiting help sites, and use a safe phone or a library computer when possible.

Sources and official references used in this guide

  • Georgia statewide hotline and shelter routing: Georgia Coalition Against Domestic Violence hotline details and shelter directory. (gcadv.org)
  • Protective order steps and timelines: Georgia.gov protective order guide. (georgia.gov)
  • Protective order forms: Georgia Superior Court Clerks’ Cooperative Authority; Supreme Court of Georgia standard forms index. (gsccca.org, gasupreme.us)
  • Georgia Crime Victims Compensation amounts and deadlines: CJCC program pages. (crimevictimscomp.ga.gov, cjcc.georgia.gov)
  • SNAP FY2025 maximums and deductions: USDA FNS FY2025 COLA memo and tables. (fns.usda.gov)
  • Georgia SNAP application and expedited processing: Georgia.gov and DFCS SNAP pages. (georgia.gov, dfcs.georgia.gov)
  • WIC income period and CVB amounts: GA DPH and USDA WIC policy memo for FY2025. (dph.georgia.gov, fns.usda.gov)
  • TANF benefit amounts and Family Violence waivers: DFCS TANF Appendix A and DV policies. (pamms.dhs.ga.gov)
  • CAPS DV priority and income rules: DECAL CAPS Policy Manual. (decal.ga.gov)
  • Lease termination for survivors: O.C.G.A. § 44‑7‑23. (law.justia.com)
  • Unemployment “good cause” for family violence: O.C.G.A. § 34‑8‑194. (law.justia.com)
  • Court attendance job protection: O.C.G.A. § 34‑1‑3. (law.justia.com)
  • Coordinated Entry and ESG help: Georgia DCA ESG and Balance of State CoC pages and hotline. (dca.georgia.gov, dca.ga.gov)
  • Georgia DV data: Georgia Commission on Family Violence 2025 Annual Fact Sheet. (gcfv.georgia.gov)

If a link is temporarily unavailable, call the phone number listed for the agency. All numbers and amounts were verified for accuracy as of September 2025.

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