24 HOUR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CRISIS LINE
LINEA DE CRISIS LAS 24 HORAS SOBRE VIOLENCIA DOMÉSTICA
707-255-NEWS (6397)

OUTSIDE OF NAPA COUNTY
FUERA DEL CONDADO DE NAPA
IN EMERGENCY CALL 911
1-800-799-7233
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Get Help
Help yourself
Breaking Up
Help your friend, teen, or child
Help An Abuser
FAQs

Breaking Up

Where to Begin

Start by knowing that this change can lead to the healthy, empowered future you deserve. You’ll probably have ups and downs, but if you feel tempted to give up and go back, call NEWS for support. We understand that this is a process and that it’s a tough decision to make. We can provide resources and support for the issues you face such as divorce, custody, child support, housing, immigration, and finances. These issues can seem overwhelming and may cloud your ability to make safe and healthy decisions -- but there is a way through it, and you don’t have to do it alone. Make a call to NEWS and talk with a domestic violence counselor -- it’s a good first step.

If you are leaving your abuser, ask yourself the following questions:
  • How and when can you most safely leave? Where will you go?
  • Are you comfortable calling the police if you need them?
  • Who can you trust to tell that you are leaving?
  • How will you travel safely to and from work or school, or to pick up your children?
  • What community and legal resources will help you feel safer? (Write down their addresses and phone numbers, and keep them handy. NEWS can help you find the appropriate resources.)
  • Do you know the number of the local shelter? (255-NEWS)
  • What custody and visitation arrangements will keep you and your children safe?
  • Is a restraining order a viable option?

NEWS

The path is not short, the work is not simple, but we're here to help you gain the strength and courage to change