Domestic Violence Resources and Safety for Single Mothers in West Virginia
Domestic Violence and Abuse Help & Safety Resources for Single Mothers in West Virginia
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical, no‑fluff hub to help you and your kids get safe, file for protection, and secure emergency housing, cash, food, healthcare, childcare, and legal help in West Virginia. Everything here links to official state, federal, or established nonprofit sources, with realistic timelines and what to do if Plan A doesn’t work.
Emergency Quick‑Help Box
- If you’re in immediate danger: Call 911. If you can’t speak, try the silent/dispatch prompt where available, or leave the line open so the dispatcher can hear.
- 24/7 confidential support: National Domestic Violence Hotline 1‑800‑799‑SAFE (7233), TTY 1‑800‑787‑3224, or chat at TheHotline.org. They can safety‑plan, locate shelter, and connect you to a WV program. (hud.gov)
- WV domestic violence system info and videos: West Virginia Judiciary Domestic Violence page; WVCADV and FRIS contacts listed; Tuesday Legal Connect 1‑800‑642‑3617; Legal Aid of WV intake 1‑866‑255‑4370. (courtswv.gov)
- Child abuse or neglect: WV 24/7 hotline 1‑800‑352‑6513. (bfa.wv.gov)
- Find a shelter or advocate fast: Contact a local DV program (examples below) or ask the National Hotline to transfer you directly. See “Find Shelter Now.” (courtswv.gov)
- Protect your address: WV Address Confidentiality Program (ACP) helpline 1‑866‑767‑8683. (sos.wv.gov)
- Money for food: Apply for SNAP on WV PATH; see the FY2025 maximum benefit table below. (fns.usda.gov, bfa.wv.gov)
- Utility shutoff or no heat/cooling: LIEAP/E‑LIEAP income limits and dates change during the year; see FY2025 amounts below. (bfa.wv.gov, dhhr.wv.gov)
- Victim compensation: WV Crime Victims Compensation Fund can reimburse medical, counseling, lost wages, funeral costs; max awards listed below. Helpline 1‑800‑642‑8650. (victims.wvlegislature.gov)
- Legal help: Legal Aid of West Virginia intake 1‑866‑255‑4370. If you have a court date in 10 days or less, call your nearest Legal Aid office directly (locations linked below). (legalaidwv.org)
If You’re In Danger Right Now
- Safety first: Get to a room with an exit if you can. Avoid kitchens and garages.
- Call or text from a safe device: If your phone is monitored, use a friend’s phone, a work phone, or ask a shelter/advocate to call for you. The WV Judiciary page lists statewide resources and has a quick‑exit button on many related sites. (courtswv.gov)
- Tech safety: If your device may be tracked, a shelter advocate can help you adjust settings and plan around that risk. NNEDV’s Safety Net has step‑by‑step tech safety guides. (nnedv.org)
- Plan B if you can’t leave tonight: Create a code word with a trusted person. Pack copies of key documents in a go‑bag you can hide at work or with a friend (see the checklist below).
West Virginia Protective Orders — How to Get Protection Today
The fastest path to legal protection is a Domestic Violence Protective Order (DVPO). You start at the county magistrate court; emergency orders can be granted quickly, then a family court hearing follows.
Step‑by‑Step
- Go to your county magistrate court: Ask for the “Domestic Violence Petition for Temporary Emergency Protective Order” (Form MDVTPET). You can file after hours through a magistrate as well. (courtswv.gov)
- Fill out the petition with specific incidents: Include threats, injuries, weapons, prior reports, and children’s risk. The rules require firearm information if known. (courtswv.gov)
- Ask for emergency protection: A magistrate can issue an emergency order without the abuser present if you’re in immediate danger. A final hearing is then set in family court. Typical timeline is within 10 days; if continued, the emergency order can be extended. (womenslaw.org)
- Bring proof if you have it: Photos, messages, medical records, prior police reports. If you don’t have proof, you can still file — your sworn statement matters.
- At the family court hearing: The judge can issue a final protective order for 90 days, 180 days, or 1 year if certain aggravating factors are proven. You can ask for custody, supervised visitation, support, exclusive use of home, pets, and more. (womenslaw.org, code.wvlegislature.gov)
- If the order is granted: Law enforcement enters it into the WV Domestic Violence Database and NCIC so it’s visible statewide and to officers responding to calls. (courtswv.gov)
- Get help with forms: WV Judiciary has a Domestic Violence Forms page (including petitions to extend, modify, or enforce orders) and instructions; some forms are in Spanish. (courtswv.gov)
Protective Order Types and Timelines in WV
| What it is | Who issues it | How fast it can start | How long it lasts | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emergency Protective Order (ex parte) | Magistrate Court | Same day if danger is immediate | Until the family court hearing (typically within 10 days) | Can be extended if the hearing is continued. (womenslaw.org) |
| Final Protective Order | Family Court | After the full hearing | 90 days, 180 days, or 1 year (with aggravating factors) | Courts can order custody, support, move‑outs, firearms restrictions, pet protection, and more. (womenslaw.org, code.wvlegislature.gov) |
What to do if this doesn’t work: If an emergency order is denied, you can still request a full hearing in family court. Contact Legal Aid of West Virginia 1‑866‑255‑4370 or a local DV program for representation or court accompaniment. (legalaidwv.org)
Find Shelter Now — Statewide Programs That Answer 24/7
Calling a local program speeds up safety planning, shelter placement, transportation, and court help. If one program is full, ask them to warm‑transfer you to the next nearest program.
- WV Judiciary resource page: Lists the West Virginia Coalition Against Domestic Violence (WVCADV) and FRIS (rape crisis network) with numbers, plus Tuesday Legal Connect and Legal Aid. (courtswv.gov)
- Examples of licensed programs and hotlines:
- Centers Against Violence (Randolph/Barbour/Braxton/Webster/Tucker/Upshur): 304‑636‑8433 or 1‑800‑339‑1185; text 304‑840‑SAFE. (fris.org)
- HOPE, Inc. (Marion/Harrison/Lewis/Doddridge/Gilmer): 304‑367‑1100 with outreach office lines by county. (hopeincwv.org)
- Family Crisis Intervention Center (Mid‑Ohio Valley): 1‑800‑794‑2335; county lines listed on site. (fcichaven.org)
- A Way Out/Women’s Resource Center (Southern WV): 304‑255‑2559. (awaywv.org)
Quick Contact Table
| Organization | Counties/Region | 24/7 Hotline |
|---|---|---|
| Centers Against Violence | North‑Central WV | 304‑636‑8433 / 1‑800‑339‑1185 (text 304‑840‑SAFE) (fris.org) |
| HOPE, Inc. | Marion/Harrison/Lewis/Doddridge/Gilmer | 304‑367‑1100 (hopeincwv.org) |
| Family Crisis Intervention Center | Mid‑Ohio Valley | 1‑800‑794‑2335 (fcichaven.org) |
| A Way Out/WRC | Southern WV | 304‑255‑2559 (awaywv.org) |
Reality check: Beds can be tight. Programs can help with hotel vouchers or referrals if shelter is full. Tell them if you need space for children, a crib, or have a disability so they can match you to the right site.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline 1‑800‑799‑7233 or WV 211 (dial 211) to broaden the search, including neighboring counties. (hud.gov, dhhr.wv.gov)
Keep Your Location Private — WV Address Confidentiality Program (ACP)
- What it does: Gives you a substitute legal address and free first‑class mail forwarding so your real address stays out of public records (DMV, voter registration, school, child support). Mail is forwarded within 5 business days. Enrollment lasts 4 years. (sos.wv.gov)
- How to enroll: You apply through a trained advocate at a local DV/SA program; you cannot apply on your own. Call 1‑866‑767‑8683 to connect with an Application Assistant. (sos.wv.gov)
- Eligibility basics: You must be a WV resident (or relocating here), a victim of domestic/sexual violence, stalking, or trafficking, and have moved or plan to move to an address unknown to the abuser. (sos.wv.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Legal Aid of WV whether a protective order can include specific safeguards like sealing certain filings, and ask your school and child‑care providers about additional confidentiality flags. (legalaidwv.org)
Housing Protections if You Use Public Housing or a Voucher (VAWA)
If you’re in HUD‑assisted housing (Public Housing, Housing Choice Voucher, Project‑Based, CoC/ESG, and more), you have special protections under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). These apply regardless of gender and include dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
- Core rights: Your housing cannot be denied or terminated because you experienced abuse. You can request an emergency transfer, lease bifurcation to remove the abuser, and you can self‑certify with HUD Form 5382. Providers must give you HUD Form 5380 (Notice of Rights). (hud.gov)
- Emergency transfers: Ask your PHA/landlord for their Emergency Transfer Plan (HUD 5381) and submit the Emergency Transfer Request (HUD 5383). Recent HUD updates keep these forms current through January 31, 2028. (hud.gov)
- Find your local PHA: HUD lists WV housing authorities and websites so you can request an emergency transfer and safety lock changes. (hud.gov)
Quick Housing Links
| Need | Where to go |
|---|---|
| Your VAWA housing rights and forms | HUD VAWA Rights and Forms (Forms 5380/5381/5382/5383) (hud.gov) |
| Public Housing Authorities in WV | HUD PHA Websites for West Virginia (hud.gov) |
What to do if this doesn’t work: If a PHA refuses a transfer or retaliates, you can file a VAWA complaint with HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity. An advocate or Legal Aid can help you submit it. (hud.gov)
Money, Food, Utilities, Childcare — Fast‑Track Help
SNAP (Food Stamps)
- Why this matters: Leaving abuse often means lost income or interrupted work. SNAP can be expedited for households with very low income/resources.
- FY2025 maximum monthly SNAP benefits in WV (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025):
- 1 person $292
- 2 people $536
- 3 people $768
- 4 people $975
- 5 people $1,158
- 6 people $1,390
- 7 people $1,536
- 8 people $1,756
- Each additional person $220 (everycrsreport.com)
- Asset limits (FY2025): Most households aren’t subject to asset tests, but if they are, standard limit 3,000∗∗(or∗∗3,000** (or **4,500 if someone is 60+ or disabled), per WV BFA site reflecting current USDA COLA. (bfa.wv.gov, fns.usda.gov)
- How to apply: Online at WV PATH; call BFA Client Services 1‑800‑642‑8589 for help; EBT support 1‑866‑545‑6502. (bfa.wv.gov)
- Documents: ID, proof of WV residency, income in the last 30 days, child expenses, rent/utility bills, protective order (if you have one).
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a shelter advocate or Legal Aid to help you request “expedited SNAP.” If denied or delayed beyond 7 days, ask for a supervisor or file a fair hearing request.
SNAP Quick Reference Table (FY2025)
| 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: USDA SNAP FY2025 COLA. (fns.usda.gov) |
WIC for Pregnant/Postpartum Moms and Kids Under 5
- Who qualifies: Pregnant/postpartum/breastfeeding women, infants, and kids under 5 with income at or below 185% of federal poverty guidelines, plus a nutrition risk (screened at clinic). 2025‑26 guidelines took effect July 1, 2025. (fns.usda.gov)
- How to apply: Contact your local WV WIC clinic or apply online; interpreters available. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- Tip: Bring ID, proof of address, and proof of income for the last 30 days.
What to do if this doesn’t work: If a clinic is full, ask to be placed on the priority list and call another nearby clinic. You can also re‑screen if your income changes.
LIEAP and Emergency LIEAP (Heat/Cooling/Utility Crisis)
- Who qualifies: Income‑eligible households with heating or cooling cost responsibility. FY2025 monthly income limits include: 2,357∗∗(1person),∗∗2,357** (1 person), **3,082 (2), 3,808∗∗(3),∗∗3,808** (3), **4,533 (4), add $673 per person. Cooling repair/replace runs roughly May 1–September 30 or until funds run out; Emergency LIEAP opens in short windows. (bfa.wv.gov)
- During Emergency LIEAP: Gas/electric customers need a termination notice; bulk fuels need proof of low supply. Applications are in person; income thresholds mirror FY2025 LIEAP guidelines. (dhhr.wv.gov)
- Where to apply: Your local DoHS office or online; ask a Community Action Agency for help. (bfa.wv.gov)
- Extra help: Dollar Energy Fund grants can fill a gap when shut‑off is imminent. Many WV utilities offer up to 300–300–500 per grant (WV American Water up to $350 twice per year) while funding lasts. (dollarenergy.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about the 20% Utility Discount Program (available to SNAP recipients age 60+, SSI recipients, and WV WORKS families) and request a fair hearing within 60 days if you think your LIEAP decision is wrong. (bfa.wv.gov)
Emergency Assistance (One‑Month Crisis Help)
- What it covers: Short‑term help for rent, utilities, food, household supplies, clothing, transportation, or medical service when you have no other resources. Limited to one 30‑day period in a 12‑month span. Apply through your local DoHS office. (bfa.wv.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your caseworker about community funds (church assistance, Salvation Army, United Way) and DV rapid rehousing resources through your shelter advocate.
Child Care Assistance (So You Can Work or Go to School)
- Who qualifies: Parents working, in school, or in approved training; initial income up to 150% of poverty; can stay on up to 185% after you’re enrolled. Apply through your regional Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) office. (wvdhhr.org)
- What’s covered: A portion of child care costs paid directly to your provider; co‑pays depend on income and provider rate.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your DV advocate about short‑term childcare help through shelter programs or TANF support services while your subsidy is pending.
WV WORKS (TANF Cash Assistance)
- What it is: Monthly cash assistance for very low‑income families with children, plus employment/education support services and some bonuses for milestones. Apply via WV PATH or at your local DoHS office. (bfa.wv.gov)
- Important: Payment amounts in WV are based on family size, countable income, and deductions and are not clearly published in a current public chart. Your caseworker will calculate the exact benefit. You’ll complete orientation and a Personal Responsibility Contract; DV survivors can ask for accommodations and good‑cause waivers of certain work activities for safety. (dhhr.wv.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about Diversionary or emergency options if you’re just facing a short‑term crisis, and request a supervisor review if your case is delayed beyond 30 days from application.
Medical Care, Counseling, and Mental Health
- Medical coverage: Apply for Medicaid/CHIP on WV PATH — these are year‑round programs. If you’re pregnant, ask about Presumptive Eligibility to start coverage quickly.
- Counseling: Victim‑centered counseling is available through DV programs listed above; many also offer children’s counseling.
- Victim Compensation: If you’re the direct victim (or a dependent in homicide cases), WV can reimburse approved costs when there’s no other coverage.
WV Crime Victims Compensation — Key Numbers
| Benefit type | What WV may reimburse |
|---|---|
| Injury cases (total cap) | Up to $35,000 |
| Death cases (total cap) | Up to $50,000 |
| Funeral/burial cap | Up to $7,000 |
| Filing deadline | Adults: 2 years from the crime; Minors: before age 20 |
| Contact | Claims/eligibility info and application on official site; helpline 1‑800‑642‑8650 |
| Source: WV Crime Victims Compensation Fund (Legislative Claims Commission). (victims.wvlegislature.gov) |
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your claim is denied, you may request a hearing within 21 days of the decision. Consider asking Legal Aid or your advocate for help. (victims.wvlegislature.gov)
Child Support, Custody, and Parenting Time
- Start or change child support: WV Bureau for Child Support Enforcement (BCSE) can locate the other parent, establish paternity, set support, and enforce orders. Customer Service 1‑800‑249‑3778; apply via WV PATH. Local office directory is online. (bcse.wv.gov, wvdhhr.org)
- Tell BCSE about safety concerns: If you’re in ACP, give them your substitute address. Ask for contact‑free exchange plans and safe‑location visitation as part of your court orders.
- Custody/visitation: Ask the court to include supervised exchanges or third‑party visitation if needed. Keep copies of your DVPO with you and at school/daycare.
What to do if this doesn’t work: If child support enforcement actions are creating safety issues, inform BCSE in writing and ask Legal Aid for help adjusting the plan. (legalaidwv.org)
Legal Help and Self‑Help
- Legal Aid of West Virginia: Free civil legal help; priority for DV survivors. Intake 1‑866‑255‑4370; office locations by county; Tuesday Legal Connect 1‑800‑642‑3617. (legalaidwv.org, courtswv.gov)
- Court forms: West Virginia Judiciary has DV forms (including emergency petitions, extensions, modifications) and a video explaining the process. (courtswv.gov)
Safety Planning, Documentation, and Tech Tips
- Safety plan: Decide safe rooms/exits, code words, backups for transport and childcare, and where to keep a go‑bag.
- Document abuse: Save screenshots, voicemails, and medical visit summaries. Email copies to a safe account.
- Tech safety: Assume phones/locations may be monitored. Change passwords, disable location sharing, check for unknown devices on your accounts, and consider a new low‑cost phone just for court and agencies. NNEDV’s tech safety resources walk you through settings. (nnedv.org)
Diverse Communities — Targeted Help and Rights
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: You are fully protected under WV DV laws and VAWA housing protections. Ask advocates about LGBTQ‑affirming shelters and legal help; self‑certification for VAWA protections is allowed with HUD Form 5382. (hud.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Tell shelters/PHAs what accommodations you need (ground‑floor rooms, accessible transport, ASL/interpretation). Ask BCSE/courts for disability‑related accommodations.
- Veteran single mothers: Ask your VA social worker about emergency housing options and trauma‑informed counseling; some utility grants have veterans’ carve‑outs up to $400. (dollarenergy.org)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can call the National DV Hotline without sharing immigration status. Many benefits for kids (WIC, Medicaid/CHIP, school meals) do not require the parent’s status. For housing under VAWA, immigration status is not a condition for your protections. (hud.gov)
- Tribal citizens: If you are a member of a federally recognized Tribe living in WV, ask your advocate about Tribal‑affiliated support and federal victim services that may apply.
- Rural single moms: If transport is an issue, ask programs about gas cards or arranging rides; some hearings allow remote appearances.
- Single fathers: All protections and services described here apply to you as well.
- Language access: Legal Aid offers interpreters for phone intake; courts must provide interpreters for hearings. Legal Aid intake 1‑866‑255‑4370. (legalaidwv.org)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Situation | First call | Backup |
|---|---|---|
| Immediate danger | 911 | National DV Hotline 1‑800‑799‑7233; ask for transfer to a WV program. (hud.gov) |
| Shelter tonight | Your nearest DV program (see hotlines above) | WV Judiciary resource page; WV 211 (dial 211) to find programs. (courtswv.gov, dhhr.wv.gov) |
| Protective order today | County Magistrate Court; request emergency order | Legal Aid intake 1‑866‑255‑4370 for help preparing/appearing. (courtswv.gov, legalaidwv.org) |
| Keep address private | WV ACP 1‑866‑767‑8683 | Ask Legal Aid about additional court confidentiality steps. (sos.wv.gov) |
| Utilities shutoff | DoHS for LIEAP/E‑LIEAP; local CAAs | Dollar Energy Fund (300–300–500, utility‑specific). (bfa.wv.gov, dhhr.wv.gov, dollarenergy.org) |
| Food this month | Apply SNAP on WV PATH | Ask for “expedited SNAP” if little/no income. (bfa.wv.gov) |
| Childcare so you can work | CCR&R (Child Care Assistance) | Ask DV program/TANF for short‑term help. (wvdhhr.org) |
| Medical/counseling costs | WV Crime Victims Compensation | File within 2 years (adults). Helpline 1‑800‑642‑8650. (victims.wvlegislature.gov) |
Application Checklist — Pack It Once, Use It Often
- Photo ID: Driver’s license, state ID, or school/work ID.
- Proof of WV address: Lease, utility bill, or ACP card if enrolled.
- Proof of income: Last 30 days of paystubs or statement of no income; child support records.
- Kids’ documents: Birth certificates, Social Security cards, immunization records, school and IEP/504 plans.
- Legal and safety papers: Any protective orders, police reports, medical discharge notes, incident photos/screenshots, custody orders.
- Housing: Eviction notices, past‑due rent/utility bills, shutoff notices, lease.
- Banking: EBT card, benefits letters, last 2 bank statements if you have an account.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting to apply for SNAP or WIC: You can apply even if you’re between addresses. Delays cost you a month of benefits. (bfa.wv.gov, dhhr.wv.gov)
- Not asking for all relief in your DVPO: WV law allows temporary custody, child/spousal support, exclusive use of the home, pet protection, and more — ask for what you need. (code.wvlegislature.gov)
- Skipping tech safety: Location sharing, cloud accounts, and shared phone plans can expose you. Use Safety Net guidance. (nnedv.org)
- Missing LIEAP/E‑LIEAP windows: These open briefly; watch announcements and apply fast. (dhhr.wv.gov)
What To Do If Plan A Doesn’t Work
- Shelter is full: Ask for a warm transfer to the next program, a hotel voucher, or transportation to another county. Call NDVH 1‑800‑799‑7233 and WV 211 (211) to widen the search. (hud.gov, dhhr.wv.gov)
- Protective order denied: Request a full hearing; bring more details/evidence. Ask Legal Aid for help with appeals or modifications. (legalaidwv.org)
- SNAP delayed: Ask for “expedited SNAP”; escalate to a supervisor. Keep a log of calls and dates. (bfa.wv.gov)
- Utility crisis: Apply for E‑LIEAP in person with shutoff notice or proof of low fuel; then try Dollar Energy Fund. (dhhr.wv.gov, dollarenergy.org)
Regional Housing Contacts — Start Here for Transfers or Safety Moves
- Public Housing Authorities list: HUD’s page links WV PHAs like Charleston‑Kanawha, Fairmont/Morgantown, Huntington, Wheeling, Parkersburg, and more. Ask specifically for the VAWA Emergency Transfer process and safety lock changes. (hud.gov)
Tables You Can Screenshot
Table — Protective Order Relief You Can Request in WV
| Relief you can ask for | Examples |
|---|---|
| Safety and distance | No contact; stay‑away from home, work, school; third‑party pickups. |
| Home and property | Temporary possession of the residence; safe retrieval of belongings with police escort. |
| Kids and support | Temporary custody and specific visitation; child/spousal support while order is in place. |
| Financial | Reimbursement for expenses caused by the violence (medical, shelter, transport). |
| Pets | Exclusive care/possession and no harm to animals. |
| Source: WV Code §48‑27‑503. (code.wvlegislature.gov) |
Table — LIEAP FY2025 Monthly Income Limits (Selected Sizes)
| Household size | Monthly gross income cap |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,357 |
| 2 | $3,082 |
| 3 | $3,808 |
| 4 | $4,533 |
| Each additional | Add $673 |
| Source: WV Bureau for Family Assistance. (bfa.wv.gov) |
Table — Key Hotlines and Contacts
| Help needed | Number |
|---|---|
| Emergencies | 911 |
| National Domestic Violence Hotline | 1‑800‑799‑7233 (SAFE); TTY 1‑800‑787‑3224 (hud.gov) |
| WV Child Abuse/Neglect | 1‑800‑352‑6513 (bfa.wv.gov) |
| Legal Aid of WV Intake | 1‑866‑255‑4370 (legalaidwv.org) |
| WV ACP (Address Confidentiality) | 1‑866‑767‑8683 (sos.wv.gov) |
| WV BCSE (Child Support) | 1‑800‑249‑3778 (bcse.wv.gov) |
| EBT Helpline | 1‑866‑545‑6502 (bfa.wv.gov) |
Table — SNAP FY2025 Maximums (WV)
| Household size | Max monthly SNAP |
|---|---|
| 1 | $292 |
| 2 | $536 |
| 3 | $768 |
| 4 | $975 |
| 5 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $1,756 |
| Source: USDA SNAP FY2025 COLA. (fns.usda.gov) |
10 West Virginia‑Specific FAQs
- How fast can I get a protective order: Same day for an emergency order if a magistrate finds immediate danger; final hearing usually within 10 days. (womenslaw.org)
- Can I get custody and support in my DV order: Yes, WV law allows temporary custody/visitation terms and support. Ask for it in your petition. (code.wvlegislature.gov)
- What if my abuser has guns: Tell the court about firearms in your petition. Courts can include firearms restrictions; violations are enforceable. (courtswv.gov)
- How do police know my order is active: Orders are entered into the WV Domestic Violence Database and NCIC for officer access. (courtswv.gov)
- Can I hide my new address from school and child support: Enroll in WV ACP; you’ll get a substitute address accepted by state/local agencies and courts. (sos.wv.gov)
- My PHA says they can’t move me: Under VAWA, ask for the Emergency Transfer Plan (HUD 5381) and submit your transfer request (HUD 5383). You may self‑certify with HUD 5382. (hud.gov)
- What are the SNAP amounts right now: See the FY2025 table above; a family of four max is $975 per month through September 30, 2025. (fns.usda.gov)
- I have a shutoff notice: Apply for Emergency LIEAP during the announced window with the shutoff notice (or proof of low fuel). Ask about Dollar Energy Fund grants (300–300–500, utility‑specific). (dhhr.wv.gov, dollarenergy.org)
- Can I get help paying for counseling or funeral costs: The WV Crime Victims Compensation Fund may reimburse; injury cap 35,000∗∗,deathcap∗∗35,000**, death cap **50,000, funeral up to $7,000. File within 2 years (adults). (victims.wvlegislature.gov)
- How do I reach child support: BCSE Customer Service 1‑800‑249‑3778; apply through WV PATH to open or modify a case. (bcse.wv.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
We use only official sources (West Virginia Department of Human Services, WV Judiciary, WV Secretary of State, USDA, HUD, WV Legislative sites) and established nonprofits (Legal Aid of WV, NNEDV). Our research process follows our Editorial Standards with primary sources, link testing, and change tracking. We verify program details and update promptly when policies change, but we are not a government agency and can’t guarantee individual outcomes.
Last verified: September 2025, next review: April 2026.
Disclaimer
Program rules change: Benefit amounts, forms, and timelines can change during the year. Always confirm details with the relevant agency or program before you act.
Health and safety: This guide is general information, not legal or medical advice. If you are in danger, call 911. For confidential support, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline 1‑800‑799‑7233.
Site security: For your safety, avoid sharing sensitive information on public Wi‑Fi. If you think your device is monitored, use a safe device at a library, courthouse, or a DV program office, and clear your browser history when safe.
Sources
- WV Judiciary Domestic Violence resources and contact numbers. (courtswv.gov)
- WV DV forms and emergency petition (MDVTPET; DV forms library; Rules of Practice). (courtswv.gov)
- WV Code protective‑order relief (§48‑27‑503). (code.wvlegislature.gov)
- WV Domestic Violence Database overview (law enforcement access). (courtswv.gov)
- WV Address Confidentiality Program (eligibility, mail forwarding, phone). (sos.wv.gov)
- USDA SNAP FY2025 COLA (benefit amounts; asset standards via WV BFA). (fns.usda.gov, bfa.wv.gov)
- WV BFA LIEAP and E‑LIEAP FY2025 (income limits, program windows, 20% discount). (bfa.wv.gov, dhhr.wv.gov)
- Dollar Energy Fund WV program (grant maximums, conditions). (dollarenergy.org)
- Child Care Assistance eligibility (150% initial / 185% continuing). (wvdhhr.org)
- WV Crime Victims Compensation Fund (caps, deadlines, process). (victims.wvlegislature.gov)
- Legal Aid of West Virginia (intake line, locations, DV info). (legalaidwv.org)
- HUD VAWA rights and forms (5380/5381/5382/5383) and WV PHA directory. (hud.gov)
- Local DV programs (Centers Against Violence, HOPE, FCIC, AWAY). (fris.org, hopeincwv.org, fcichaven.org, awaywv.org)
If you spot an error or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org. We aim to assess and fix urgent corrections within 24–48 hours.
🏛️More West Virginia Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in West 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
