1. What is domestic violence?

Domestic violence can consist of many forms of abuse which include:

2. If I decided to go to a Shelter, what is it like?
Our shelter is a large comfortable home with a huge playroom and education programs for children. It provides excellent security in a residential neighborhood. Each family is given a private bedroom. Community areas include the living room, bathroom, kitchen, playroom, and laundry.

3. Are things really bad enough to leave?
If things are bad enough that you are thinking of leaving then yes, you should leave. Abuse gets worse over time, so protect yourself and leave while you still can.

4. May I bring my children?
Absolutely! We encourage you to bring your children. There is no age limit for girls, however we do have an age limit for boys. Boys over the age of 12 are not allowed to stay in our shelter.

5. How long can I stay?
Some families need more time than others. The length of stay is a joint decision made by the individual and shelter staff based on need.

6. May I bring my pets?
Unfortunately no. We do not have anywhere to keep them. We recommend you find a friend or family member who can care for them until you have a home of your own.

7. What should I bring with me?
If you are in immediate danger bring only yourself & your children…just leave safely! If time permits and you can plan ahead, some of the items you need to consider bringing with you are:

8. Can I keep my car?
Yes, you can keep your car.

9. Is childcare provided on site?
We do not normally provide childcare however we will watch your children for you for short periods so that you can keep important business appointments such as counseling, housing, job interviews, doctor appointments, etc. We will help you register with the Work Force Commission and you may be able to obtain childcare through a program with them.

10. Can I still talk to my family?
This decision is yours. We hope that if your family is supportive that you keep in touch, however, we do recommend that you do not disclose your location to anyone. Often, the abuser will seek out family & friends to discover where you've gone.

11. Can I keep my job?
Yes, you can keep your job. If needed, our staff will work with you to vary your schedule or change your work site to make it harder for your abuser to bother you.

12. Can my children attend their own school?
This is a decision only you can make. Will the abuser try to harm them or take them? If so, a new school would be safer. Our shelter has a wonderful working relationship with local schools & can ease the transition for your child/children if needed.

13. Is the shelter really safe?
Our shelter has a well-trained staff that works 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to help ensure quality service in a safe yet warm environment. Our shelter is equipped with both security & fire alarms.

14. What are my legal rights?
You have the legal right to remain free from abuse. Domestic Violence is a crime. Beyond this, each case is different; therefore Shelter staff will ensure you meet quickly with our Victim's Advocate. In this way, you are guided through the legal system by a knowledgeable, caring professional.

15. Will you help me move out of state?
Yes, we can help. Shelter staff will work closely with you to explore all of your safety options. Then your safest plan is put into action. You will have professional assistance every step of the way.

16. Can I change my identity?
Yes, but you must work with our Victim's Advocate to make this happen. Federal laws have been passed that even allow for you to change your Social Security Number in certain situations.

17. How can the police protect me from my abuser?
Again, Domestic Violence is a crime. The police have the right to arrest an abuser even if you do not file charges. You should work with Shelter staff & Legal Advocates to arrange for an Order of Protection.

18. I don't want to press charges, what are my choices?
You have the right to be free from abuse. Even if you decide not to press charges, all shelter services will be available to you; this gives you the time & opportunity to rebuild your life free from abuse.

19. How do I prove I'm being abused?
Your word is the best place to start. Beyond that, our Victim's Advocate can help you remember witnesses. Do you have any of the following?

20. Can I get other agency services if I don't go to the shelter?
Absolutely! We offer a wide variety of services to meet your needs:

• Counseling for victims (individual & group)
  (Free Counseling for Residents ~ small fees may apply for Non-Residents, based on their ability to pay.) 

• Referrals to Alcohol and Drug Treatment
• Legal Advocacy
• Case Management - assistance with finding needed resources: housing, financial assistance, medical help

21. How can I tell if I'm being stalked?
Texas has passed an anti-stalking law. Generally, you know you are being stalked if a person continually shows up at places you frequent. The stalker may leave notes, gifts or threats. Contact our Legal Advocate for the specific definition of Stalking & to learn what your rights are.

Our Mission Statement

Hope, Inc. exists to eliminate domestic violence through intervention, offering shelter, counseling, support, and education to promote the healing of abusive relationships.

Would you like to help make a difference in your community?

Call the phone number below if you would like to volunteer your time or make a donation to Hope, Inc.