Victim's Services

Initially, the first point of contact that a victim of domestic violence may have with the Family Crisis Center (FCC) is through our 24-HOUR HOTLINE (301.731.1203); these services are free, confidential and can be accessed 24/7. On a single day in Maryland, hotlines can expect 276 calls for service, that's more than 12 hotline calls every hour (National Network to End Domestic Violence, National Census of Domestic Violence Services, November 2006). Over the past 5 months (January through May 2007) here at the FCC Hotline, we have experienced an average of 965 calls per month.

Hotline Responders render immediate crisis intervention through compassionate support, community resources, referrals to other helping agencies, and when appropriate, access to our SAFE PASSAGE PROGRAM EMERGENCY SAFE HOUSE. The Emergency Safe House provides victims who are fleeing violence in their homes, a safe, clean and therapeutic environment. Due to the lethality of many domestic violence relationships, the location of the actual facility is undisclosed. During their stay at the safe house, SPP clinicians provide individual and support group counseling, case management, job skills assessment, assistance with transitional housing, and referrals for other community services. SPP staff work closely with clients on exploring all options for safety, stability, and security. This includes developing marketable skills for employment, resume building, improving parenting skills, enhancing self-esteem, and rebuilding community connections.

For non-residential clients, the FAMILY VIOLENCE INTERVENTION CLINIC (FAMVIC) provides intensive group therapy sessions, separately for victims and perpetrators of violence, that are designed to assess and provide treatment to reduce the incidence of domestic violence in our communities.

Domestic violence is a complex issue that has far reaching consequences for all family members. To ensure the safety and stability of survivors as they exit an abusive relationship, we offer support through the LEGAL ADVOCACY PROGRAM, which provides domestic violence victims with civil legal advice, court companionship, and/or legal representation. On average, Prince George's County Sheriff's Office receives 1,200 restraining orders per month and is the jurisdiction that has the highest rate of service for orders of protection.

The Family Crisis Center also has a satellite office located in Langley Park, Maryland to provide SERVICES IN SPANISH FOR LATINA SURVIVORS of domestic violence, and to serve the Hispanic population in that area. Experienced counselors conduct Survivors' orientation sessions, intakes, and counseling support groups. Female survivors interested in these services should contact the main office in Brentwood at (301)779-2100 to request an appointment.

Maryland Family Law Assistance (PDF 48k)
Maryland Family Law Assistance (Spanish - PDF 20k)