Choices For Victims Of Domestic Violence

Programs: See schedule o24-hour crisis, information & refferal hotline:choices receives thousands of calls each year from people living in fear from the threat of domestic violence. To meet this incredible demand, choices provides a crisis, information, and referral hotline that is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. This resource is the only one of its kind in central ohio and is available to anyone in need of domestic violence information or assistance. Hotline staff are trained to listen, ask questions, discuss alternatives, and ultimately refer callers to specific programs and services based on their individual needs. Temporary shelter:the fact that choices offers temporary shelter is well known, but the location is kept confidential for safety purposes. A dedicated staff has guaranteed its operation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week since 1977, making it the longest-running domestic violence shelter in central ohio. The maintenance demands of the physical facility go beyond the average homeowner's imagination: 10 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, 4 separate heating systems and windows and doors too numerous to count. Thousands of families have used this residence. Counseling:choices offers problem-solving counseling, support, resources and referrals to those victims and survivors of domestic violence who do not require residential services. Day or night, services ranging from individual sessions to educational groups are available at several locations throughout the community. All services are provided by licensed social workers with graduate-level credentials. Treatment goals are developed cooperatively and focus on issues of self-esteem and empowerment, as well as improving decision-making skills. Personal, physical and emotional safety plans are explored and defined.