Domestic Violence Resources and Safety for Single Mothers in Wisconsin
Domestic Violence and Abuse Help & Safety Resources for Single Mothers in Wisconsin
Last updated: September 2025
Read this in small chunks. Scan the bold labels. Click the links with clear names. You will find exact phone numbers, dollar amounts, and how to apply.
Quick Help Box
- If you are in immediate danger: Call 911.
- 24/7 Wisconsin‑ready domestic violence help: National DV Hotline 1‑800‑799‑7233 or text START to 88788. Chat at thehotline.org. (thehotline.org)
- Milwaukee crisis line: Sojourner Hotline 414‑933‑2722; text 414‑877‑8100. (familypeacecenter.org)
- Madison/Dane County: DAIS Help Line 608‑251‑4445; text 608‑420‑4638. (abuseintervention.org)
- Statewide resource map: Find your nearest DV program via End Domestic Abuse Wisconsin’s Get Help map. (endabusewi.org)
- Native survivors: StrongHearts Native Helpline 1‑844‑762‑8483 (call or text). (strongheartshelpline.org)
- General resource navigation: Call 211 (or 877‑947‑2211), text your ZIP to 898211. Available 24/7. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Emergency Section
Your fastest path to safety: Call 911 now if there is a weapon, strangulation risk, or an assault in progress. If calling is not safe, text a trusted friend “call me” or “come over,” grab shoes/keys/ID, and move to a room with an exit.
- Digital safety tip: Use a safe device and private browsing. The National DV Hotline has quick‑exit and privacy tips. (thehotline.org)
- Lethality red flags: Threats to kill, strangulation, firearm access, and escalating control. Wisconsin’s 2023 Domestic Violence Homicide Report documented 85 DV‑related deaths, most with firearms. Seek help immediately. (endabusewi.org)
At‑a‑Glance Hotlines and First Contacts
| What you need | Where to call | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 24/7 DV help | National DV Hotline 1‑800‑799‑7233; text 88788 | Free, confidential; multi‑language. (thehotline.org) |
| Milwaukee | Sojourner 414‑933‑2722; text 414‑877‑8100 | City/county DV hotline and shelter. (familypeacecenter.org) |
| Dane County | DAIS 608‑251‑4445; text 608‑420‑4638 | Shelter, legal advocacy. (abuseintervention.org) |
| Green Bay | Golden House 920‑432‑4244 | Shelter, legal help, text 920‑770‑6415. (goldenhousegb.org) |
| Appleton/Outagamie | Harbor House 920‑832‑1666 or 800‑970‑1171 | 24/7 support, 68‑bed shelter. (harborhousewi.org) |
| La Crosse region | New Horizons 888‑231‑0066 | 24/7 hotline; shelter and outreach. (domesticshelters.org) |
| Racine County | Women’s Resource Center 262‑633‑3233 (crisis) | Text 262‑221‑0058. (wrcracinewi.com) |
| Kenosha County | Women & Children’s Horizons 262‑652‑9900 | Toll‑free 800‑853‑3503. (wchkenosha.org) |
| Native survivors | StrongHearts 1‑844‑762‑8483 | Culturally specific; call or text. (strongheartshelpline.org) |
| Hmong community | Hmong Family Strengthening Helpline 1‑877‑740‑4292 | Bilingual Hmong/English help. (hawamke.org) |
| Any statewide resource | 211 or 877‑947‑2211; text ZIP to 898211 | 24/7 referrals, 180+ languages. (dhs.wisconsin.gov) |
Protective Orders in Wisconsin
What to do first: If you need a restraining order today, complete the online forms assistant and go to your county Clerk of Courts. There is no filing fee for a Domestic Abuse Restraining Order, and sheriff service is free. (wicourts.gov)
How the process works
- Step 1 – File for a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO): Use the Wisconsin Courts Forms Assistant, or get paper forms at the courthouse or local DV agency. (wicourts.gov)
- Step 2 – Same‑day review: A judge or court commissioner reviews your petition and can issue a TRO the same day to last until the hearing. (wicourts.gov)
- Step 3 – Hearing: The court schedules an injunction hearing within 14 days. (doj.state.wi.us)
- Step 4 – Final order (injunction): Injunctions can last up to 4 years, and up to 10 years if there is a substantial risk of homicide or sexual abuse. (doj.state.wi.us)
- Forms and e‑filing: See the statewide forms and county contact list. (wicourts.gov, doj.state.wi.us)
If you are not sure which order fits
- Domestic Abuse Injunction: For abuse by a spouse/ex, someone you dated, lived with, share a child with, or a caregiver. No fee. (goldenhousegb.org)
- Harassment Injunction: For stalking/harassment by anyone. A filing fee may apply unless stalking/violence is alleged. (goldenhousegb.org)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not giving specific incidents: Include dates, places, threats, injuries, and witnesses.
- Leaving firearm details out: Mention any firearms and prior threats tied to guns; courts consider this risk. Wisconsin DV homicides most often involve firearms. (endabusewi.org)
- Skipping service info: Fill out sheriff service forms completely for timely service.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If a TRO is denied: Ask the clerk for a same‑day review by another court official if available, or file for a Harassment Injunction. Call Legal Aid for help with re‑filing: Legal Action Intake 855‑947‑2529 (statewide). (legalaction.org)
Keep Your Address Private with Safe at Home
Why this matters: Court papers, school records, and licenses can expose your location. Wisconsin’s Safe at Home can replace your real address with a legal substitute for mail and most public records. (doj.state.wi.us)
- Who qualifies: Wisconsin residents who are survivors of domestic abuse, stalking, sexual abuse, trafficking, or who fear for their safety. (wisdoj.gov)
- How to enroll: Meet with an Application Assistant at a DV program, complete the packet, and send it by secure fax 608‑261‑8660 or mail. Call 608‑266‑6613 for help or to confirm fax receipt. (wisdoj.gov)
- Where it works: Schools, DMV, courts, and most government offices must accept the assigned address. (wisdoj.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Emailing your application: Do not email applications—use fax or mail as instructed. (wisdoj.gov)
- Homeownership issues: If you own your home, call Safe at Home before applying to discuss special steps. (wisdoj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you need immediate confidentiality now: Use a shelter or trusted mailing address while your application is processed, and ask an advocate about additional court privacy tools.
Crime Victim Compensation (CVC): Money for Expenses After Abuse
What it covers: Wisconsin’s CVC can pay up to 40,000∗∗overfouryearsforunreimbursedcostslikemedicalcare,counseling,lostwages,funeralcosts(upto∗∗40,000** over four years for unreimbursed costs like medical care, counseling, lost wages, funeral costs (up to **5,000), crime‑scene cleanup (up to 1,000∗∗),andlimitedevidence‑relateditemreplacement(e.g.,phoneupto∗∗1,000**), and limited evidence‑related item replacement (e.g., phone up to **200). (wisdoj.gov)
- How to apply fast: Apply online or send the fillable PDF by email/fax/mail to the DOJ CVC Program. Fax 608‑264‑6368. Expect intake to take 90–120 days. (wisdoj.gov)
- Key deadlines: Report the crime within five days when possible, and apply within one year; DOJ may waive for safety reasons. (wisdoj.gov)
- Not covered: General property damage, mileage, or paid time off. (wisdoj.gov)
Tip
- Ask about restitution: Courts can order offenders to pay relocation and other costs as restitution in criminal cases. (docs.legis.wisconsin.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If CVC can’t cover everything: Ask your advocate about local victim emergency funds, housing advocates, and 211 referrals. Combine CVC with WHEAP for utilities and with W‑2 or FoodShare for basics (details below).
Shelter and Housing Options
Start here first: Call your local DV program (see the hotlines table) to prioritize safety planning and emergency shelter.
- Milwaukee: Sojourner Family Peace Center, 414‑933‑2722 (text 414‑877‑8100). (familypeacecenter.org)
- Dane County: Domestic Abuse Intervention Services (DAIS), 608‑251‑4445 (text 608‑420‑4638). (abuseintervention.org)
- Green Bay: Golden House, 920‑432‑4244; text 920‑770‑6415. (goldenhousegb.org)
- Appleton/Outagamie & Calumet: Harbor House, 920‑832‑1666 or 800‑970‑1171. (harborhousewi.org)
- La Crosse region: New Horizons, 888‑231‑0066. (domesticshelters.org)
- Racine County: Women’s Resource Center, 262‑633‑3233 (text 262‑221‑0058). (wrcracinewi.com)
- Kenosha County: Women & Children’s Horizons, 262‑652‑9900. (wchkenosha.org)
Coordinated Entry for housing programs
- Outside Milwaukee/Dane: Wisconsin Balance of State Continuum of Care uses Coordinated Entry to connect you to Rapid Re‑Housing or prevention help—ask any shelter or call 211 to be screened. (wiboscoc.org)
- Dane County Coordinated Entry: Access happens through street outreach and shelters (including DAIS). (danecountyhomeless.org)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting to call until you have nowhere to sleep: Call early. DV shelters may arrange safety planning even if beds are full.
- Not asking about pet options: Programs such as Safe Haven foster pets temporarily—ask your local shelter. (familypeacecenter.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If shelters are full: Call 211 to find hotel vouchers, non‑DV shelters, or short‑term help, and ask for DV‑specific safety planning with daily callbacks. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Money, Food, Child Care, Health Care, and Energy Help
Wisconsin Works (W‑2) cash assistance
- Who qualifies: Parents with a child under 18 in the home, with income at or below 115% FPL and assets under 2,500∗∗(vehiclevalueabove∗∗2,500** (vehicle value above **10,000 counts). (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- How much: Up to 653permonth∗∗dependingonplacementandparticipation;∗∗653 per month** depending on placement and participation; **673 per month in your third trimester or the first eight weeks after birth (CMF+/CMC). (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- Timing: W‑2 participation periods run the 16th to the 15th; payments are calculated after the “Pulldown date” about five working days after month end. Sanctions cut $5 per hour missed. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- Apply: Online via ACCESS or at your local W‑2 agency. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
Wisconsin Shares child care subsidy
- Income to qualify: Up to 200% FPL at application; you can stay on until 85% of State Median Income (SMI). See table below. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- How to apply: Online or through your local agency; Milwaukee families can call MilES 1‑888‑947‑6583 (select child care options). (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- Safety note: If child support cooperation puts you at risk, you can request a Good Cause exemption. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
FoodShare (SNAP) for groceries
- Maximum monthly benefits (Oct 2024–Sep 2025) for the 48 states:
- Household of 1: $292
- 2: $536
- 3: $768
- 4: $975
- 5: $1,158
- 6: $1,390
- 7: $1,536
- 8: $1,756
- Each additional person: $220. (fns.usda.gov, everycrsreport.com)
- Wisconsin income screens and max allotments: See FoodShare’s current monthly charts (includes 200% FPL screening and 130% FPL reporting limits). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Apply: Online via ACCESS; your IM consortium will conduct a phone interview. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
BadgerCare Plus health coverage
- Income limits (Feb 2025–Jan 2026): Adults up to 100% FPL, pregnant people and children up to 306% FPL. See DHS table for exact monthly amounts by family size. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Energy help (WHEAP/LIHEAP)
- Who qualifies: Households at or below 60% of State Median Income (see monthly amounts below) for Program Year 2024–2025 (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025). (energyandhousing.wi.gov)
- Typical benefit range: The LIHEAP Clearinghouse lists a statewide heating benefit 30–30–2,580 and crisis assistance up to $1,200 (FY 2025). (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
- Apply: Online, or call 1‑866‑HEATWIS (432‑8947) to reach your local agency. Benefits remain available during the heating season; crisis help is year‑round. (energyandhousing.wi.gov, content.govdelivery.com)
Tables you can scan fast
Wisconsin Shares income cutoffs (effective Feb 1, 2025)
| Group size | 200% FPL (monthly) | 85% SMI (monthly, remain eligible) |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $3,525 | $5,671 |
| 3 | $4,442 | $7,005 |
| 4 | $5,358 | $8,340 |
| 5 | $6,275 | $9,674 |
| 6 | $7,192 | $11,008 |
WHEAP 60% State Median Income limits (2024–2025)
| Household | One‑month income | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3,061.08 | $36,733 |
| 2 | $4,002.92 | $48,035 |
| 3 | $4,944.83 | $59,338 |
| 4 | $5,886.75 | $70,641 |
| 5 | $6,828.58 | $81,943 |
| 6 | $7,770.50 | $93,246 |
FoodShare maximum monthly allotments (FY 2025)
| Household | Max allotment |
|---|---|
| 1 | $292 |
| 2 | $536 |
| 3 | $768 |
| 4 | $975 |
| 5 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $1,756 |
Restraining order timeline quick view
| Step | When |
|---|---|
| TRO decision | Same‑day review in most counties |
| Service by sheriff | Free for Domestic Abuse cases |
| Injunction hearing | Within 14 days |
| Injunction duration | Up to 4 years; up to 10 years in high‑risk cases |
W‑2 payment basics
| Placement | Typical monthly max |
|---|---|
| Community Service Job (CSJ) / W‑2 Transition (W‑2T) | $653 |
| Pregnancy third trimester / 8 weeks post‑birth | $673 |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Letting child support cooperation put you at risk: Ask for a Good Cause exemption if cooperation would risk harm. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- Missing WHEAP season: Heating season ends May 15; crisis funds may still help after. Apply early. (content.govdelivery.com)
- Not finishing the FoodShare interview: Your case won’t open without it; answer calls from your IM consortium. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you were forced to quit a job due to abuse: You may still qualify for Unemployment Insurance if you obtained a TRO/injunction and it is reasonably likely to be violated. Apply and explain your situation. (dwd.wisconsin.gov, docs.legis.wisconsin.gov)
Your Rights at Work and School
- Unpaid leave for DV‑related needs: Wisconsin Family and Medical Leave law allows time off to seek medical care, counseling, legal help, relocation, and more related to domestic/sexual abuse or stalking. Show your employer the statute. (docs.legis.wisconsin.gov)
- Unemployment after a DV quit: Wisconsin law recognizes quitting due to domestic abuse or safety concerns, with proper documentation, as an exception to disqualification. (dwd.wisconsin.gov, docs.legis.wisconsin.gov)
- S.A.F.E. employers program: DWD promotes workplace policies for confidentiality, non‑discrimination, and job‑protected time off for survivors. Share this with HR. (dwd.wisconsin.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not keeping copies: Save court orders, police reports, doctor notes, and HR emails in a safe cloud or with a trusted person.
- Going it alone with HR: Bring a DV advocate to planning meetings when possible (many employers welcome this).
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If your employer retaliates: Call the State Bar Lawyer Referral line 800‑362‑9082 for a low‑cost consult, or apply to Legal Action 855‑947‑2529. (wisbar.org, legalaction.org)
Legal Help
- Free civil legal aid: Legal Action of Wisconsin Intake 855‑947‑2529 (offices in Milwaukee, Madison, Racine/Kenosha, Green Bay, Oshkosh, La Crosse). (legalaction.org)
- Northern counties and tribal members: Judicare Legal Aid 715‑842‑1681 or 800‑472‑1638. (judicare.org)
- Find a private attorney: State Bar Lawyer Referral Service 800‑362‑9082 (first 30‑minute consult no more than $20). (wisbar.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If you need quick forms help: Use Wisconsin Law Help’s free guides for DV restraining orders. (wislawhelp.org)
Diverse Communities
LGBTQ+ single mothers: You deserve affirming help. The National DV Hotline offers connections to LGBTQ‑competent providers; 988 has an LGBTQ+ option by pressing 3. In Milwaukee, the Hmong American Women’s Association also supports LGBTQ+ survivors impacted by family or partner violence and can help with name/gender marker changes. (thehotline.org, fcc.gov, hawamke.org)
Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Ask shelters about accessible rooms and service animal policies; SSI/Medicaid questions can be routed via 211 and DHS hotlines. CVC can cover housing adaptations up to $5,000 after a crime. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, wisdoj.gov)
Veteran single mothers: Use the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 then press 1. Ask your local VA for the Intimate Partner Violence Assistance Program (IPVAP); DV survivors may also qualify for legal aid through veteran projects at Legal Action. (fcc.gov, wislawhelp.org)
Immigrant and refugee single moms: You may qualify for a confidential VAWA self‑petition (Form I‑360) without your abuser’s help, or for a U Visa if you assist law enforcement. These options can include work permits and, later, permanent residency. Talk only to trusted legal aid or an immigration attorney. (uscis.gov)
Tribal‑specific resources: StrongHearts Native Helpline 1‑844‑762‑8483 offers culturally specific advocacy and referrals, including help navigating address confidentiality and jurisdiction questions. (strongheartshelpline.org)
Rural single moms with limited access: Call 211 from any county to find the nearest safe shelter and mobile advocacy; many DV programs can meet you at a public place or courthouse and safety‑plan around long drives. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Single fathers: Every program listed serves survivors of all genders. If any office directs you elsewhere, ask for the supervisor or call the National DV Hotline 1‑800‑799‑7233. (thehotline.org)
Language access: 211 offers interpretation in 180+ languages; the National DV Hotline offers multi‑language support; Wisconsin Shares and DHS agencies can arrange interpreters upon request. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Safety, Documentation, and Applications: An Action Checklist
- Proof of identity and children: Photo ID, birth certificates, Social Security cards (or numbers).
- Evidence of abuse: Photos of injuries/property damage, threatening texts/voicemails, police reports, ER/clinic notes, witness names.
- Legal steps: TRO/Injunction forms, Safe at Home application, custody/placement orders if any.
- Money and benefits: Pay stubs (last 30 days), bank balance, lease or utility bills, SNAP/W‑2/child care verification, child support orders or Good Cause claim. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- Medical and therapy: Clinic names, medications, doctor letters for DV‑related leave under Wisconsin FMLA. (docs.legis.wisconsin.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- Restraining order filing fee for Domestic Abuse: 0∗∗;sheriffservice∗∗0**; sheriff service **0; hearing within 14 days; up to 10 years in high‑risk cases. Forms assistant available. (wicourts.gov, doj.state.wi.us)
- Safe at Home contact: 608‑266‑6613; secure fax 608‑261‑8660. (wisdoj.gov)
- CVC maximum award: $40,000; intake 90–120 days. Apply online or fax 608‑264‑6368. (wisdoj.gov)
- W‑2 cash: Up to 653/month∗∗;pregnancy/newborn∗∗653/month**; pregnancy/newborn **673/month. Income ≤115% FPL; assets ≤$2,500. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- Wisconsin Shares: Apply at 200% FPL; remain eligible up to 85% SMI. Use the estimator tool to check your copay. (dcf.wisconsin.gov, childcareestimator.wisconsin.gov)
- FoodShare max for 4: $975 (FY 2025). Apply via ACCESS. (fns.usda.gov)
- WHEAP income limit for 4: $5,886.75 one‑month income (60% SMI). Call 1‑866‑432‑8947. (energyandhousing.wi.gov)
- Unemployment after DV quit: Possible with TRO/injunction or police/medical/shelter evidence. (dwd.wisconsin.gov)
Real‑World Examples
- Milwaukee mother with two kids: Filed a TRO using the courts’ online assistant at the library, called Sojourner (414‑933‑2722) the same day to safety‑plan, then applied for Wisconsin Shares (income under 200% FPL) to secure child care for a new job. (wicourts.gov, familypeacecenter.org, dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- Dane County mother exiting shelter: Worked with DAIS legal advocates to finalize a 4‑year injunction, enrolled in Safe at Home, and combined FoodShare ($768 for 3) with WHEAP crisis funds to stabilize utilities while starting W‑2. (abuseintervention.org, doj.state.wi.us, fns.usda.gov, liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
County and Program Finder Links
- Find your FoodShare/Medicaid phone number: DHS IM & Tribal Agency Contacts (by county). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Find your Wisconsin Shares office: Where to Apply by county/tribe. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- End Domestic Abuse Wisconsin map: Locate local DV programs statewide. (endabusewi.org)
- 211 Wisconsin: Call 211 or text your ZIP to 898211 for any resource. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using unsafe email or shared devices for court and benefits: Use a new email, turn on two‑factor authentication, and clear browser history. The Hotline has safety tips. (thehotline.org)
- Letting benefits lapse during a move: Report address changes using Safe at Home procedures and update ACCESS promptly to avoid closure. (wisdoj.gov)
- Not asking for fee waivers: Domestic Abuse restraining orders don’t have filing or sheriff service fees; harassment orders can be fee‑waived in stalking/violence situations. (goldenhousegb.org)
- Missing CVC deadlines: Apply even if the case is ongoing; DOJ can waive reporting/apply windows for safety. (wisdoj.gov)
What to Do If a Step Hits a Wall
- Courthouse confusion: Ask the Clerk for the DV advocate in the building, or call your county program from the lobby (see hotlines table). (doj.state.wi.us)
- No shelter beds tonight: Ask for hotel vouchers or non‑DV shelter via 211, then keep calling DV programs each morning for openings. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Employer won’t cooperate: Print Wisconsin FMLA §103.10 and DWD’s S.A.F.E. page; if pushback continues, call the State Bar LRIS 800‑362‑9082. (docs.legis.wisconsin.gov, dwd.wisconsin.gov, wisbar.org)
Ten Wisconsin‑Specific FAQs
- Is there a filing fee for a Domestic Abuse Restraining Order: No. Sheriff service is also free. (wicourts.gov)
- How long can an injunction last: Up to 4 years; up to 10 years in high‑risk cases. (doj.state.wi.us)
- How quickly will my hearing be scheduled: Within 14 days of filing a TRO. (doj.state.wi.us)
- Can I keep my address off public records: Yes—enroll in Safe at Home (608‑266‑6613; fax 608‑261‑8660). (wisdoj.gov)
- What is the maximum FoodShare for a family of 4 in FY 2025: $975 per month. (fns.usda.gov)
- How much cash can W‑2 pay: Up to 653∗∗monthly(mostplacements),and∗∗653** monthly (most placements), and **673 in late pregnancy/newborn periods. (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- What if child support cooperation puts us in danger: Request a Good Cause exemption (DV‑related harm is a qualifying reason). (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- Can I get Unemployment Insurance if I quit to stay safe: Yes, with a TRO/injunction or police/medical/shelter evidence showing the risk. (dwd.wisconsin.gov)
- Who can help with a sexual assault exam and support: Call RAINN’s National Sexual Assault Hotline 800‑656‑4673 to find the nearest provider. (rainn.org)
- Where do I find my county benefits phone number: Use DHS’s IM & Tribal Agency directory. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Resources by Region (sample list—use the map and 211 for full coverage)
- Southeast: Sojourner (Milwaukee) 414‑933‑2722; Women & Children’s Horizons (Kenosha) 262‑652‑9900; WRC Racine 262‑633‑3233. (familypeacecenter.org, wchkenosha.org, wrcracinewi.com)
- South‑Central: DAIS (Dane) 608‑251‑4445. (abuseintervention.org)
- Northeast: Golden House (Brown) 920‑432‑4244; Harbor House (Outagamie/Calumet) 920‑832‑1666. (goldenhousegb.org, harborhousewi.org)
- Western: New Horizons (La Crosse & surrounding) 888‑231‑0066. (domesticshelters.org)
For a complete statewide list with 24/7 lines, use End Domestic Abuse Wisconsin’s Get Help map and 211. (endabusewi.org, dhs.wisconsin.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: Our mission is practical, no‑fluff help for single parents. We verify eligibility rules on official government sites and established nonprofits, link to application portals, test links, and track policy changes. See our Editorial Standards for details. (wisdoj.gov)
Sources used in this Wisconsin guide: Wisconsin DOJ (restraining orders, Safe at Home, Crime Victim Compensation), Wisconsin Courts (forms assistant), Wisconsin DHS (FoodShare, BadgerCare), Wisconsin DCF (W‑2 and Wisconsin Shares), DWD (UI and S.A.F.E.), DOA (WHEAP), LIHEAP Clearinghouse, End Domestic Abuse Wisconsin, local DV agencies, and 211 Wisconsin. Source dates reflect pages accessed and verified through September 2025. (doj.state.wi.us, wicourts.gov, wisdoj.gov, dhs.wisconsin.gov, dcf.wisconsin.gov, dwd.wisconsin.gov, energyandhousing.wi.gov, liheapch.acf.hhs.gov, endabusewi.org)
Last verified: September 2025. Next review: April 2026.
Feedback and corrections: Email info@asinglemother.org. We respond within 48 hours and update verified corrections within 24–48 hours per our editorial policy. (wisdoj.gov)
Disclaimer
Important note: Program rules, benefit amounts, phone numbers, and deadlines can change. Always verify details with the relevant agency using the official links in this guide. This guide is for general information and is not legal advice or a substitute for an attorney. For legal advice, contact a licensed lawyer or call the State Bar of Wisconsin Lawyer Referral Service 800‑362‑9082. (wisbar.org)
Site safety: If you think your device is monitored, use a safe computer or clear your history, and use hotlines instead of online chats when possible. The National DV Hotline has privacy guidance and a quick‑exit feature. (thehotline.org)
Reality Check and Why This Guide Is Different
- We include exact dollar amounts, phone numbers, and direct application links from official sources so you can act quickly.
- We address barriers other lists skip: child care, energy bills, employment leave, address privacy, and rural access.
- We state real timelines: same‑day TRO review; 14‑day hearings; 90–120 days for CVC intake; W‑2’s 16th–15th cycle. (wicourts.gov, wisdoj.gov, dcf.wisconsin.gov)
If a link breaks or something looks off, send a quick note to info@asinglemother.org so we can fix it fast. (wisdoj.gov)
Source List (selected)
- Restraining orders – steps, fees, durations: Wisconsin DOJ and Wisconsin Courts. (doj.state.wi.us, wicourts.gov)
- Safe at Home – how to enroll and use: Wisconsin DOJ. (wisdoj.gov)
- Crime Victim Compensation – benefits and timelines: Wisconsin DOJ. (wisdoj.gov)
- FoodShare – FY 2025 amounts and WI charts: USDA FNS and Wisconsin DHS. (fns.usda.gov, dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- W‑2 and Wisconsin Shares – rules and amounts: Wisconsin DCF (parents page; agency tools). (dcf.wisconsin.gov)
- WHEAP/LIHEAP – income limits and benefit ranges: Wisconsin DOA DEHCR; LIHEAP Clearinghouse. (energyandhousing.wi.gov, liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
- Employment protections and UI exception for DV: DWD statutes/policy and WI Legislature. (docs.legis.wisconsin.gov, dwd.wisconsin.gov)
- End Domestic Abuse Wisconsin – statewide help map and homicide data: End Abuse WI. (endabusewi.org)
- 211 Wisconsin – contact options: DHS and United Way partners. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Stay safe. Take one step, then the next. Each step counts.
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- 🍎 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
