Oregon Department of Human Services shares information on support for survivors in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) is a national observance that brings attention to the problem of domestic violence and efforts to prevent abuse, support survivors, and strengthen communities.

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) provides services that can help people and families experiencing domestic violence. Many of these services would not be possible without the support and partnership of community organizations throughout Oregon.

"Domestic Violence Awareness Month reminds us that raising awareness is important. That includes making sure survivors know where to access the services they need," said Claire Seguin, director of ODHS Self-Sufficiency Programs. "I want to recognize and thank the Tribes, community organizations, advocates and service providers who work with us to support survivors in Oregon."

Support available through ODHS includes financial assistance, safety planning, advocacy and connections to community resources.

ODHS programs include:

• Temporary Assistance for Domestic Violence Survivors (TA-DVS) which provides short-term assistance to eligible families and pregnant people experiencing domestic violence. Eligible people may receive up to $3,200 over a 90-day period. The amount of assistance depends on a person's circumstances, safety needs and available resources. Visit the TA-DVS program webpage for more information.
• Co-Located Domestic Violence Advocates who are available in many ODHS Self-Sufficiency Programs and Child Welfare offices throughout Oregon. These advocates are not ODHS employees. They are certified advocates who offer confidential support to anyone experiencing domestic violence, with or without children. The help they provide includes safety planning, connection to resources, support with protection orders and other legal advocacy as well as other confidential services. Ask about this at your local office or visit the Oregon Coalition Against Domestic & Sexual Violence site to find support near you.
• Survivor Investment Partnership (SIP) provides funding to each of the Nine Federally Recognized Tribes in Oregon and eight culturally responsive domestic violence and sexual assault support organizations. These funds help to support programs designed by each Tribe or organization to meet the needs of survivors in their Tribes or communities. The programs offered vary by location but can include direct supports, culturally specific advocacy, or financial assistance.
• Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (DVSA) Fund Program is a partnership between ODHS and the Oregon Department of Justice to provide funding for organizations across the state to help them remain stable. This funding ensures survivors have access to meaningful, reliable services statewide.

Other help is available

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence:

• Call 911 if there is immediate danger
• Call the Call to Safety Crisis Line at 888-235-5333 for support and connections to local domestic violence services.
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233
• Strong Hearts Native Hotline: 844-762-8483
• National Sexual Assault Hotline: 800-656-4673
• National Human Trafficking Hotline: 888-373-7888
• People should consider their safety when searching for information or contacting services. Phones and computers can be monitored, and it may be safer to use a device at a public library, workplace, shelter or another trusted location.