Can my children come with me?

ACT describes its emergency shelters as serving victims of domestic violence and their children. Call to discuss your family’s needs and the options currently available.

What if I do not have money or identification?

Call ACT and explain your situation. An advocate can tell you what may be needed and help you discuss possible next steps. Do not wait to ask for help simply because you are uncertain about which documents or belongings you have.

When possible, call before leaving so an advocate can explain what may be useful to bring. Items such as identification, medications, important documents, keys and children’s records may be helpful, but do not put yourself in greater danger to gather belongings. The National Domestic Violence Hotline recommends calling ahead when possible and provides a general list of documents, medications, keys and emergency items that may be useful when leaving.

Pet policies and available accommodations vary. Ask an ACT advocate about its current policies and whether pet-safety resources or referrals may be available.

How will I know where to go?

Call ACT before traveling. If shelter is an appropriate option, an advocate will explain the next steps and what location information can be shared safely.

Is ACT’s help free?

ACT states that its services for victims, survivors and their children are provided free of charge. An advocate can explain what services may be available for your situation.

What if shelter is not currently available?

Call anyway. An advocate may be able to discuss safety planning, referrals or other support options.

Can I call for someone else?

You can call to ask about possible resources for someone you care about. Ask the person what kind of help they want, share options without pressure and support their ability to make their own decisions. Support guidance from the National Domestic Violence Hotline emphasizes respecting the survivor’s decisions and asking how they would like to be helped.

Safe Space

I need a safe place.

Our advocates are available 24/7 to help you find safety. Whether you need immediate shelter or want to explore confidential options for relocation, you are not alone.

A drawing of a house with a large yellow question mark for Abuse Counseling & Therapy shelter services.

Find shelter and support anywhere in the U.S.

Not in Southwest Florida? We can help you connect with local resources and safe houses across the country.

A path winding through a stone arch toward a rising sun, representing hope at Abuse Counseling & Therapy.

Your path to safety

When you call our helpline, we follow a simple, survivor-centered process to ensure you get the exact support you need.

Tell us what you need

Share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with. Our advocates are here to listen and assess your immediate safety concerns.

Talk through options

We explore shelter availability, safety planning, and community resources that fit your specific situation and family needs.

Choose a next step

You decide what's best. Whether it's coming to shelter tonight or finding other safe arrangements, we support your choice.

Abuse Counseling & Therapy drawing of a parent and child holding hands under an umbrella, sheltered from rain.

What is a domestic violence shelter?

A shelter is more than just a place to stay. It is a secure, therapeutic community where you and your children can begin to heal in safety.

A woman tenderly embraces her baby, representing the safe, healing care at Abuse Counseling & Therapy.

24/7 Security

Our locations are confidential and monitored by staff around the clock to ensure your peace of mind.

Healing Support

Access individual counseling, support groups, and children’s programs while you stay.

Living Essentials

We provide food, clothing, hygiene products, and personal items at no cost to you.

Case Management

Our advocates help you navigate legal, housing, and financial resources for long-term stability.

Important Note: Shelter locations are never shared publicly. We will provide specific directions only after your intake call.

An Abuse Counseling & Therapy drawing depicts an adult and child sheltered from the rain by a protective umbrella.

Shelter FAQ

Answers to common questions about our emergency shelter program.

Still have questions?

Our advocates are ready to talk through any concerns you have about shelter, safety planning, or your specific situation.

(239) 939-3112

24/7 Confidential Free Helpline

Call Now

A drawing of an adult helping children climb a hill, symbolizing support from Abuse Counseling & Therapy.

Helping someone else

If you’re worried about a friend, family member, or coworker, knowing how to support them safely is the first step.

A counselor at Abuse Counseling & Therapy comforts a young woman during a supportive therapy session.

Believe & Validate

Listen without judgment and believe their story – Offer empathetic support that validates their experience and honors their truth.

Respect Autonomy

Do not pressure them to leave until they are ready – Respect their autonomy and timeline with unconditional, ongoing support.

Safety Planning

Help them develop a personal safety plan – Outline actionable steps, contacts, and safe locations for their routine.

Discreet Resources

Provide them with our hotline number discreetly – Share confidential helpline access safely for when they need it.

A sad person stands inside a house under a rain cloud in this Abuse Counseling & Therapy illustration.

Not ready or able to go to shelter today?

That’s okay. You don’t have to be in shelter to receive support from ACT. We offer a wide range of outreach services to help you stay safe where you are.