Women In Distress of Broward County, Inc. operates a 24-HOUR CRISIS HOTLINE (954-761-1133.) The crisis line is staffed by trained advocates and volunteers with the following goals: to treat every caller with respect, to ensure prompt provision of appropriate referrals to callers, to establish eligibility for shelter services and to facilitate access to Women In Distress’ outreach services.

The crisis line is operational 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Victims of domestic violence, concerned persons in the community, advocates, professionals, law enforcement, courts, etc. who need information about domestic violence services and community resources can call. Advocates and volunteers are available to respond to all inquiries for information, safety planning, referrals, shelter and/or appropriate outside services.

What's Next?

A victim’s first step to accessing Women In Distress' services is to call our 24-Hour Crisis Hotline. An advocate will immediately answer the call and provide information about services and the next steps to keep the victim and her or his children safe. The family will be brought to shelter if needed and available, or to an orientation group at our outreach center.

An advocate will greet the victim and assess their needs, provide resources, educate them on the dynamics of domestic abuse, and walk through more details to safety planning in order to encourage the victim to plan for a secure place if not in shelter.

Our participants are free to choose the programs and services in which they wish to participate. During these critical days, the advocate will be there as a support system and friend that the participant can lean on as she or he begins a new life.