Domestic Abuse Family Shelter, Dedicated to breaking the cycle of abuse, Southeast Mississippi

FAQ'S

What do I do if I need shelter?

Call the crisis line at 800-649-1092 to talk with a shelter staff member about your situation. The shelters are located in Laurel and Hattiesburg, and provide a safe place for women and their children.

Do I have to be in one of the shelters to receive counseling?

No, counseling is offered free of charge to women and men in the 11-county area who are victims and survivors of domestic violence. Counselors have Master’s Degrees in Counseling and experience in dealing with domestic violence victims and survivors.

How do I get a Protective Order?

Call the agency’s Court Advocate Information Line to ask the Victim Advocate for assistance. The Victim Advocate can help you get the information and support you need to get a protective order through Justice or Municipal Courts.

How much do these services cost?

All services for victims and survivors are free of charge. The Domestic Violence Intervention Program (DVIP) for men needing to learn alternatives to abusive behavior is the only service offered where fees are charged.

Do you offer classes for those charged with domestic violence offenses?

Yes. This agency offers the Domestic Violence Intervention Program (DVIP) for men who are court-ordered or who volunteer to participate in the program. The DVIP Class Leaders are certified in the Duluth model curriculum and teach non-violent alternatives to abusive behaviors in a 16-week curriculum.

How do I volunteer with the Domestic Abuse Family Shelter?

Call our business office at 601-428-1707 to have an application sent to you. Prospective volunteers go through an interview process, a background check, and training, before they can volunteer.

Do you provide presentations on domestic violence for the community?

Yes, DAFS’ staff provides educational presentations to schools, civic groups, church groups, colleges and universities. In addition, presentations on dating violence and healthy relationships are provided in the schools. DAFS’ staff also provides domestic violence training to law enforcement agencies in the 11-county service area.

Do you take donations?

DAFS accepts clothing, personal hygiene articles, cleaning supplies, paper products, household items and food. Donations can be delivered to the business office in Laurel at 210 East Kingston Street 601-428-1707, or you can call the Hattiesburg Shelter at 601-582-2102 to make arrangements to have someone meeting you for your donation. Monetary donations can be mailed to the business office at Post Office Box 273, Laurel, MS 39441-0273.