FAQs

• Do I have to pay for your services?

  We provide assistance regardless of an individual’s ability to pay. We will work to help you increase your financial security and independence, by ensuring you are receiving all the supports you are entitled to receive.

• Do you offer services in languages other than English?

  Our staff offer services in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. We also provide translation supports for ASL and many other languages.

• I don’t believe my partner is abusive, but others tell me I need DV counseling. Why should I call you?

  We are committed to helping you determine what is true and healthy for you. You don’t have to believe your partner is abusive, you don’t have to want to leave. You only need the desire to improve your life and learn more about healthy relationships.

• I believe my child is in an abusive relationship. Can you help me? How do I get them services?

  We also offer advocacy and counseling supports for family members. It can be beneficial to speak with a counselor about your concerns for your child, explore which responses are often counter-productive or helpful, and what safety-planning assistance you may need.

• I’m struggling with maintaining my sobriety. But sometimes I’m so worried and frightened by my partner, nothing else seems to matter. What should I do?

  Our crisis intervention staff have experience working with both trauma and substance use. They will help guide you to the services that can provide you with the best supports. Every situation is unique, every person deserves an individual response.

• I’m cautious about working with providers. In the past I’ve felt disrespected, as if the staff didn’t understand me or care to figure it out. How can I know you won’t do that?

  We are dedicated to providing culturally-competent services, with the intention of providing high-quality care for all people. We recognize the important links between intimate and communal violence. We are committed to offering services that address all levels of violence, oppression, and objectification. We understand this work requires humility, mindfulness, and a willingness to continually question our assumptions and remain open to dialogue.

• Do you have a domestic violence shelter? How can I find emergency shelter?

  We do not run a domestic violence shelter, but work with SAFELINK (877-785-2020) the Massachusetts Statewide Domestic Violence Shelter Hotline to assist individuals and families in need of confidential emergency shelter. We also work with SSTAR OTC to assist survivors in need of inpatient detox services. We have partnered with the Greater Fall River United Way to locate emergency SafeHome services for those at high risk for harm.

• What is the Empowerment Model?

  The Empowerment Model is a philosophy that accepts every individual as the expert for their own life. We believe that every person knows their own needs and experiences best. We help you trust yourself, state what you need, and find the strength to claim it. We don’t tell you what to do, but help you find the courage to live fully.