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Domestic Violence
During the COVID-19 Health Crisis

Avoiding public spaces and working remotely can help to reduce the spread of COVID-19, but for victims of abuse, home is often the most dangerous place to be. The abuser will now have more opportunities to exert power and control.

Resources During the COVID-19 Health Crisis

Click on the tabs for resources

 
 
Services Available (all are at no cost):​
  • The Montgomery County Family Justice Center - Mon-Fri, 8;30 - 5:00 pm
    Assistance with safety planning, protective orders, legal assistance, counseling.
    Call 240-773-0444
    Email: safe@montgomerycountymd.gov (checked during business hours)
    Walk-in to 600 Jefferson Plaza, Suite 500 in Rockville
  • Montgomery County Abused Persons Program - Mon-Fri, 8:30 - 5:00 pm
    Assistance with advocacy and counseling
    240-777-4195
  • The Montgomery County Crisis Center (24 hours)
    Help with crisis situations, and coordinates shelter placement
    Call 240-777-4000
  • District Court Commissioner’s Office (24 hours)
    File for Protective Orders
    191 East Jefferson St in Rockville
  • The Victim Assistance and Sexual Assault Program (VASAP) 
  • Adventist Healthcare Shady Grove Medical Center has specialized medical care and forensic services
    • 9901 Medical Center Drive, Rockville
    • 240-826-6225
  • National Domestic Violence Hotline (24 hours)
    Call 800-799-7233
    Chat at thehotline.org
    Text LOVEIS to 22522
As always, those in immediate danger who need emergency assistance should dial 911.
 
Child abuse during the COVID-19 Pandemic and how you can help:
During this time of increased stress and uncertainty, there is a possibility that incidents of abuse and neglect could increase. But there is also the possibility, that by reaching (safely) out to our neighbors and providing comfort, love, and support that we can build the strength of those families, and in turn, those communities, and prevent abuse from happening. Here are some ideas (from https://www.preventchildabuseny.org/):
  • Know who lives in your neighborhood and check in on those who may need your help, preferably through notes, phone calls, or texts. Offer a kind word, to share from your toilet paper stash or have your kids draw pictures or make art projects for elderly neighbors.
  • If you know you are in good health and have not been exposed to anyone with the virus, offer to help with child care for a parent who does not have any resources.
  • Create groups on social media or through FaceTime for your neighborhood, your schools, and your kids' friends. Maintain social contact through these avenues.
  • Send a card or a note to brighten up someone's day.
Services Available:
  • To report suspected child abuse, contact Montgomery County Child Welfare Services:
  • The Tree House Child Advocacy Center provides services for child abuse victims at 240-777-4699. 
  • To talk, chat or text an advocate if you know someone is being abused, or if you are being abused contact ChildHelp.org:
  • The Victim Assistance and Sexual Assault Program (VASAP)
  • Adventist Healthcare Shady Grove Medical Center has specialized medical care and forensic services:
    • 9901 Medical Center Drive, Rockville
    • 240-826-6225
As always, those in immediate danger who need emergency assistance should dial 911.
 
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