Interpersonal Safety

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) provides protections for all intimate partner survivors – no matter their gender, transgender, or gender expression.

Last-reviewed: March 26, 2024

Community-based organizations can provide vital resources for individuals experiencing safety concerns.

• Domestic Violence: Care teams can provide information about the services provided by Project Opal that include a National DV Hotline (800-799-7233) and a safety planning tool. The Hotline has translation services and a text function for people who cannot safely call. Care teams can also help people find advocates who understands the specific needs of their community (e.g., women, American Indian/Alaskan Natives, Muslim youth, farmworkers, members of the LGBTQIA+ community). DV survivors who use ASL can also access crisis counselors by video phone (855-812-1001).
• Legal Protections for IPV/DV survivors: Under the Violence Against Women Act, a federal law, survivors of domestic abuse, stalking, or sexual assault may be entitled to housing and immigration protections.  Care teams can share VAWA housing information and VAWA immigration information.
• Hate Crimes: Care teams can provide information about organizations, like the Southern Poverty Law Center and the Anti-Defamation League, that are working to combat extremism and hate. They can also refer to organizations that understand the specific needs of the people they serve (e.g., people who are transgender and Asian Americans).
• Disability: Care teams can provide resources on abuse and neglect of Persons with Disabilities.
• Older Adults: Care teams can provide resources on abuse and neglect of older adults.

Key Resources

• National Domestic Violence Hotline
• National Resource Center for Reaching Victims