Frequently Asked Questions about Domestic Violence Shelters

How do I qualify for emergency shelter?
Domestic violence emergency shelters are designed for individuals and families who are fleeing domestic violence, sexual violence, or human trafficking. Crisis Specialists are available 24/7 to complete an assessment over the phone to determine if an individual is eligible for the program. Call our helpline to speak with someone immediately: 209-465-4878.
Where are the shelters located?
For safety reasons, the shelters are in undisclosed locations in San Joaquin County.
How long can someone stay at a shelter?
The shelter program is a 30-day program. Some women choose to leave well before 30 days and some residents stay a little longer. Extensions are determined on a case-by-case basis as needed.
Where do I go after 30 days?
One of the foremost priorities at our domestic violence shelters is to find a safe place for clients to transition to upon their exit. Clients work very closely with their Shelter Specialist & Case Manager to work on their housing plans. Some residents go directly into an apartment or house of their own, some stay with friends or family, and some relocate for their safety.
What kind of services are offered at the shelters?
All residents can attend support groups and educational classes, have one-on-one sessions with their assigned Shelter Specialist, and get assistance with obtaining a temporary restraining order. Case Managers meet with residents to assist with housing, employment, and education-related goals. The shelters also offer the “Just for Kids” counseling program for children staying in the program. There is staff at the shelters 24 hours a day to provide information, referrals, crisis intervention, and emotional support.
What do I need to bring with me?
Shelter clients are asked not to bring more than a few bags of personal belongings. The shelters have very limited storage space. Toiletry items are provided but clients must provide their own food. Linens and towels are also provided to each client upon entry. We encourage residents to bring any important documents (i.e., identification, birth certificates, social security cards, children’s immunization records, insurance paperwork, court orders, etc.) along with a few changes of clothing. Also, if there are any children, it’s a good idea to bring a favorite item or toy.
What are the shelters like?
The shelters are seven-bedroom houses. There could be up to six people in each room. Most clients are required to share a room with another shelter resident, and/or a resident with children. The living spaces are shared. All clients help with the upkeep of the house, including chores and cooking.
Can I go to work while staying at a shelter?

Domestic violence shelters never requires residents to quit their jobs or take time off work. We do encourage clients to consider safety concerns involved with their employment and help solve those issues.

We also advise residents of their employment rights when dealing with domestic violence. It is always up to the individual whether they want to continue their employment while staying in the program.

Do the shelters provide childcare?
Staff can only provide childcare during select scheduled support groups. When residents need childcare, they are referred to local agencies for assistance, encouraged to use safe friends or family, or they can make a contract with another resident for short-term childcare.
Where will my children go to school?
Children living at the shelters are required to be enrolled in school. Children can stay at their previous school, transfer to another school, or request to be put on temporary independent study.
Do the shelters provide transportation?
The domestic violence shelters do not have the resources to provide transportation. Bus passes may be available for residents on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Contact

Stockton: San Joaquin Street

(209) 941-2611

Lodi Office

(209) 368-3406

Stockton: California Office

(209) 929-6700

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