Frequently Requested Domestic Violence Resources

Changing Your Social Security Number: The SSA joins with other Federal agencies to provide greater assistance to victims of domestic violence. Some victims seeking to elude their abuser and reduce the risk of further violence choose to establish a new identity. As part of that effort, it may be helpful to obtain a new Social Security number (SSN).

Give Back a Smile Program: This program is dedicated to providing cosmetic dental care at no cost to all survivors of domestic violence. Potential applicants should call 800-773-4227 to inquire about participating in the Program. Leave your name, mailing address and telephone number including area code and an application will be mailed to you.

FACE to FACE: The National Domestic Violence Project
1-800-842-4546: A joint program of the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence and the Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Provides free reconstructive surgery for victims of domestic violence, male and female.

ADT - Free Security Systems for Victims of Domestic Violence: The ADT AWARE® program is a coordinated effort among ADT Security Services, representatives of local law enforcement agencies, prosecutor's offices and battered women's shelters. After these community groups have selected participants for the program, ADT donates and installs electronic security systems in the homes of victims of domestic violence. The systems include a hold-up alarm pendant, which can be worn or carried with the victim while in the home. In the event of an imminent attack, the victim can press the button on the pendant, sending an immediate, silent alarm to ADT, which in turn notifies the appropriate police agency. Law enforcement agencies participating in the AWARE® program have agreed to respond to these AWARE® alarms on a priority basis.

When Violence Begins at Home: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Ending Domestic Abuse This comprehensive reference will be a valuable resource to both battered women and their caregivers. Wilson, who went underground for a few years to escape a dangerous relationship, draws on her experience as director of the Austin Center for Battered Women to provide immediate aid to victims and guidelines for helpers. She discusses the indicators of an abusive relationship; its effects on children and teens; substance abuse; how the workplace, medical, and religious communities can help; treatment programs for batterers; antiburnout tips for helpers; and advice on living underground. A final chapter presents a history of misogyny. Wilson is sensitive to cultural differences and their impact on women from various backgrounds. An appendix offers myriad resources in the form of support groups and print materials. Full of practical advice from someone with extensive experience in the field of domestic violence, this is strongly recommended for all collections.

Why Does He Do That: Inside the Minds of Angry and Controlling Men.
In this groundbreaking book, domestic violence expert Lundy Bancroft uses his unique perspective as a therapist for abusive and controlling men to help women, their children, and other family members who have been touched by abuse understand why abusers behave the way they do and what can be done about it. Bancroft teaches women how to survive and improve an abusive relationship; how to determine how dangerous an abuser is and when it is impossible to rectify a situation; and how to get out of a relationship safely. This book identifies nine types of abusive men, addressing different styles, from the physical batterer to the strictly verbal abuser. He dispels the pervasive societal myths surrounding abuse, exposing common excuses used by abusers, such as having experienced an abusive childhood or substance addiction. Bancroft answers commonly asked questions, such as what warning signs of abuse to look for early in a relationship; what is and isn't abusive behavior; how to know if a woman and her children are in danger; and how to tell when a man is really changing.