Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.
Hi friend. If someone is hurting you, scaring you or controlling you, it is not your fault. I'm really glad you picked this up. There are people in North Carolina who can help you stay safe, any time, day or night.
Here is the easy first step: if you're in danger, call 911. Any time, you can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800.799.7233. We'll walk through the rest together.
A few things to know
- You choose. You decide what is safe for you and when.
- If someone checks your phone, clear your history, or use a phone they can't see.
- Domestic violence shelters keep their addresses private to protect you.
If you're in danger, call 911. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is open 24 hours a day at 800.799.7233.
They can talk with you, help you make a safety plan, and connect you with a program near you.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.thehotline.org/
What to say when you call
"I'm not safe at home, and I need help."
"I'm in (town or county)."
"I have (number) kids with me," if you do.
"Can you help me find a safe place to stay?"
Have a code word
Pick a word with a friend or family member that means "call for help." It can make a big difference.
Are there domestic violence programs in North Carolina?
Yes. Local domestic violence agencies serve all 100 North Carolina counties, with 24 hour crisis lines, emergency shelter, support groups and counseling.
The NC Coalition Against Domestic Violence has a map to find yours. In Mecklenburg County, Safe Alliance runs the Greater Charlotte Hope Line at 980.771.4673. In Wake County, InterAct's crisis line is 919.828.7740. Their details are later in this guide.
Sources: https://nccadv.org/get-help/ and https://www.safealliance.org/ and https://interactofwake.org/immediate-support/
How to make a safety plan, step by step
- Think about the safest way out of your home, and where you could go.
- Keep important papers, medicines and a phone charger where you can grab them.
- Tell someone you trust what's going on, and agree on a code word.
- Save the hotline number under a different name in your phone.
- Call a domestic violence program to plan the next steps with you.
How can I keep my new address private?
North Carolina's Address Confidentiality Program, run by the NC Department of Justice, gives survivors who move a substitute address and forwards first class mail, so your new address stays private. A domestic violence or sexual assault center can help you apply.
Questions: 919.716.6785.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://ncdoj.gov/public-protection/acp/
Can the court protect me?
In North Carolina, you can ask the court for a domestic violence protective order, sometimes called a 50B order. In an emergency, a judge can enter a short term ex parte order.
A domestic violence program or legal aid can help you through the steps; Legal Aid of North Carolina's helpline is 866.219.5262.
Sources: https://www.ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/BySection/Chapter_50B/GS_50B-2.html and https://legalaidnc.org/
Things to grab if you need to leave fast, only if it's safe
Can I get help with housing?
Yes. Domestic violence programs can help with shelter and longer term housing.
If you have a lease, you may have options to end it early for safety. Ask a domestic violence program or legal aid. Dial 211 to ask about deposit and moving help in your county.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://nc211.org/
Say you need to leave tonight with your kids in Wake County
If you're in danger, you'd call 911. When you're safe, you'd call HAVEN or the National Domestic Violence Hotline to ask about a safe place to stay tonight. Later, they could help you with a safety plan and a PPO.
Questions people ask a lot
Do I have to call the police?
No. You choose. A domestic violence program can help you either way.
Can I bring my kids?
Yes. Most domestic violence shelters welcome children.
Can I bring my pet?
Some programs can help with pets. Ask when you call.
What if I'm not sure it's abuse?
You can still call. They'll listen and help you sort it out.
You deserve to be safe
You did nothing wrong. Reaching out is brave, and there are people ready to help you.
How do I make the most of each call?
Calling for help can feel like a lot. A little planning makes each call easier, and you'll get further, faster.
- Call early in the day if you can. It leaves time to follow up the same day.
- Have a pen, paper and your papers close by before you call.
- Say what you need in one or two sentences first. Then answer their questions.
- Ask, "Is there anything else I should apply for?" One call can open more doors.
- Before you hang up, ask who you talked to and what happens next.
- Write it all down in your call log at the back of this guide.
If you get put on hold or cut off
"Hi, I was just talking with someone about (what you need), and we got cut off."
"Can you help me pick up where we left off?"
"Is there a direct number I can use if this happens again?"
Keep going, friend
If one place can't help, ask them who can. Each call gets you closer.
What if I'm told no, or put on a waitlist?
A no from one place isn't a no from everyone. Programs have different rules, funds and space, and things change from week to week.
- Ask why. Knowing the reason helps you know what to try next.
- Ask, "Who else could help with this?" Write down every name and number they share.
- If you're on a waitlist, ask how long it usually takes and how you'll hear from them. Ask how often you should check in.
- Keep your phone number and address up to date with every program, so you don't miss a call or letter.
- If a state agency denies you, the letter should tell you how to ask for a hearing and the deadline. Read it right away, and call legal aid if you need help.
- Dial 211 any time to look for other options near you.
Keep your papers safe
You're doing great
Asking for help, and asking again, takes strength. I'm cheering you on every step of the way.
Here is help that works across North Carolina, then domestic violence programs in the biggest counties, then a county DSS list for other counties. Call ahead for hours.
Federal help (works in every state)
Here are some places to start.
National Domestic Violence Hotline
What it offers Private, no cost support 24/7 for anyone hurt or threatened by a partner. Advocates can help you make a safety plan and find local programs and shelter. The Hotline does not give cash or hotel vouchers, but it can connect you to local groups that may.
How to reach Call 800.799.7233. Text START to 88788. Chat at https://www.thehotline.org/ TTY 800.787.3224. For Native American and Alaska Native survivors, the StrongHearts Native Helpline is 844.762.8483.
Source https://www.thehotline.org/ and https://nccadv.org/get-help/
Last checked October 22, 2026
love is respect (National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline)
What it offers Support for young people dealing with abuse in a relationship, or anyone with questions about healthy relationships.
How to reach Call 866.331.9474. Online: https://www.loveisrespect.org/
Source https://www.thehotline.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
North Carolina
Here are some places to start.
NC Coalition Against Domestic Violence: find your local program
What it offers A map and list of local domestic violence agencies serving all 100 North Carolina counties, with 24 hour crisis lines, emergency shelter, support groups and counseling. The Coalition itself does not provide direct services.
How to reach Pick your county at https://nccadv.org/get-help/ Coalition office: 919.956.9124 (an office line, not a crisis line).
Source https://nccadv.org/get-help/
Last checked October 22, 2026
NC Address Confidentiality Program (NC Department of Justice)
What it offers If you move to escape abuse, this program gives you a substitute address and forwards your first class mail, so your new address stays private. You can use it to register to vote, get a driver's license or sign up for utilities. It is for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking or human trafficking who are moving or have moved and sign a statement that they fear for their safety or their children's safety. Note: the program card is not a photo ID for voting.
How to reach Sign up through an application assistant at a domestic violence or sexual assault center. Questions: 919.716.6785 or acp@ncdoj.gov.
Source https://ncdoj.gov/public-protection/acp/
Last checked October 22, 2026
NC 211 (United Way of North Carolina)
What it offers Private, no cost help line and online search for local help with housing, food, bills, health care and more. Open 24/7, in most languages.
How to reach Dial 211 or call 888.892.1162. Search or chat at https://nc211.org/
Source https://nc211.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
NC Victim Compensation Program (NC Department of Public Safety)
What it offers A no cost, private state program that may pay back costs after a violent crime in North Carolina, including domestic violence. It can cover things like medical care, counseling and lost wages. It does not cover rent. You can apply online or by mail, and staff can help you with the steps.
How to reach Call 800.826.6200. Start at https://www.ncdps.gov/dps-services/office-victim-compensation-services/victim-compensation-program
Source https://www.ncdps.gov/dps-services/office-victim-compensation-services/victim-compensation-program
Last checked October 22, 2026
NCDHHS Customer Service Center and county social services
What it offers Each of North Carolina's 100 counties has a local Department of Social Services (DSS). That is where Food and Nutrition Services (SNAP), Work First, energy help and Medicaid are handled. You can also apply online at ePASS.
How to reach Call the NCDHHS Customer Service Center at 800.662.7030, or use the Local DSS Directory to find your county office. Apply online at https://epass.nc.gov/
Source https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/local-dss-directory
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Mecklenburg County (Charlotte)
Here are some places to start.
Greater Charlotte Hope Line (Safe Alliance)
What it offers Private, no cost hotline 24/7 for Mecklenburg County residents facing domestic violence or sexual assault, and for parents who need support.
How to reach Call 980.771.4673. In an emergency, dial 911.
Source https://www.safealliance.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Safe Alliance Domestic Violence Shelter
What it offers Secure shelter for Mecklenburg County residents in immediate danger who are ready to leave, with 19 apartment style suites for families and 10 units for single adults. Services include counseling, support groups, a children's program, advocacy, career planning, three daily meals and personal care items.
How to reach Call the Greater Charlotte Hope Line 24/7 at 980.771.4673.
Source https://www.safealliance.org/programs/domestic-violence-shelter/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Safe Alliance Victim Assistance Court Program
What it offers Help filing or renewing a domestic violence protective order (50B) or a no contact order (50C), plus safety planning, photos of injuries, court accompaniment and support groups. Staff and volunteer attorneys provide no cost legal representation for one year protective orders and renewals. Help is offered in your preferred language. Check your state and local law, or ask a lawyer, about your rights.
How to reach 800 E. 4th St., 1st floor, Charlotte, NC 28202. Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm. No appointment needed; arrive by 3 pm to file the same day. Court program office: 704.312.1667. Safe Alliance main office: 704.332.9034. Hope Line 24/7: 980.771.4673.
Source https://www.safealliance.org/programs/victim-assistance-court-program/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Wake County (Raleigh)
Here are some places to start.
InterAct of Wake County Crisis Line
What it offers Trained crisis counselors 24 hours a day help callers plan for their immediate safety and connect to InterAct's services. Services are no cost and private.
How to reach Call 919.828.7740. Spanish: 844.203.8896. Email gethelp@interactofwake.org (checked Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm only). Walk in Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm at 1012 Oberlin Road, Raleigh, NC 27605.
Source https://interactofwake.org/immediate-support/
Last checked October 22, 2026
InterAct Emergency Shelter and Housing Case Management
What it offers A 24 hour, counselor staffed shelter for survivors and their families, with counseling and case management. The average stay is 90 days, with no preset limit. Housing case managers help with job readiness, finances and referrals for housing, transportation and childcare.
How to reach Start by calling the crisis line at 919.828.7740.
Source https://interactofwake.org/immediate-support/
Last checked October 22, 2026
InterAct Court Services and The Solace Center
What it offers Court advocates help survivors through protective orders and other court steps at the Legal Support Center in the Wake County Courthouse. The Solace Center offers forensic exams and support 24/7 at no cost for survivors of sexual assault, no matter where the assault happened. Check your state and local law, or ask a lawyer, about your rights.
How to reach Call the crisis line at 919.828.7740.
Source https://interactofwake.org/immediate-support/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Other counties (call your county DSS)
Here are some places to start.
Alamance County Department of Social Services
What it offers The county social services office for Alamance County. Ask here about Food and Nutrition Services (SNAP), Work First cash help, energy help, Medicaid and child care help.
How to reach 319 N. Graham-Hopedale Road, Burlington, NC 27217. Call 336.570.6532. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/alamance-county-department-social-services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Brunswick County Department of Social Services
What it offers The county social services office for Brunswick County. Ask here about Food and Nutrition Services (SNAP), Work First cash help, energy help, Medicaid and child care help.
How to reach 60 Government Center Drive NE, Building B, Bolivia, NC 28422. Call 910.253.2077. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/brunswick-county-department-social-services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Buncombe County Department of Social Services
What it offers The county social services office for Buncombe County. Ask here about Food and Nutrition Services (SNAP), Work First cash help, energy help, Medicaid and child care help.
How to reach 40 Coxe Ave., Asheville, NC 28802. Call 828.250.5500. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/buncombe-county-health-human-services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Cabarrus County Department of Social Services
What it offers The county social services office for Cabarrus County. Ask here about Food and Nutrition Services (SNAP), Work First cash help, energy help, Medicaid and child care help.
How to reach 1303 S. Cannon Blvd., Kannapolis, NC 28083. Call 704.920.1400. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/cabarrus-county-department-social-services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Catawba County Department of Social Services
What it offers The county social services office for Catawba County. Ask here about Food and Nutrition Services (SNAP), Work First cash help, energy help, Medicaid and child care help.
How to reach 3030 11th Ave. Drive, S.E., Hickory, NC 28602. Call 828.695.5600. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/catawba-county-department-social-services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Cumberland County Department of Social Services
What it offers The county social services office for Cumberland County. Ask here about Food and Nutrition Services (SNAP), Work First cash help, energy help, Medicaid and child care help.
How to reach 1225 Ramsey St., Fayetteville, NC 28301. Call 910.323.1540. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/cumberland-county-department-social-services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Davidson County Department of Social Services
What it offers The county social services office for Davidson County. Ask here about Food and Nutrition Services (SNAP), Work First cash help, energy help, Medicaid and child care help.
How to reach 913 Greensboro St., Lexington, NC 27292. Call 336.242.2500. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/davidson-county-department-social-services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Durham County Department of Social Services
What it offers The county social services office for Durham County. Ask here about Food and Nutrition Services (SNAP), Work First cash help, energy help, Medicaid and child care help.
How to reach 414 E. Main St., Durham, NC 27702. Call 919.560.8000. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/durham-county-department-social-services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Forsyth County Department of Social Services
What it offers The county social services office for Forsyth County. Ask here about Food and Nutrition Services (SNAP), Work First cash help, energy help, Medicaid and child care help.
How to reach 741 North Highland Ave., Winston-Salem, NC 27101. Call 336.703.3800. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/forsyth-county-department-social-services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Gaston County Department of Social Services
What it offers The county social services office for Gaston County. Ask here about Food and Nutrition Services (SNAP), Work First cash help, energy help, Medicaid and child care help.
How to reach 330 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Gastonia, NC 28052. Call 704.862.7500. Call ahead for hours.
Last checked October 22, 2026
Guilford County Department of Social Services
What it offers The county social services office for Guilford County. Ask here about Food and Nutrition Services (SNAP), Work First cash help, energy help, Medicaid and child care help.
How to reach 1203 Maple St., Greensboro, NC 27405. Call 336.641.3000. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/guilford-county-department-social-services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Iredell County Department of Social Services
What it offers The county social services office for Iredell County. Ask here about Food and Nutrition Services (SNAP), Work First cash help, energy help, Medicaid and child care help.
How to reach 549 Eastside Drive, Statesville, NC 28625. Call 704.873.5631. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/iredell-county-department-social-services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Johnston County Department of Social Services
What it offers The county social services office for Johnston County. Ask here about Food and Nutrition Services (SNAP), Work First cash help, energy help, Medicaid and child care help.
How to reach 714 North St., Smithfield, NC 27577. Call 919.989.5300. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/johnston-county-department-social-services
Last checked October 22, 2026
New Hanover County Department of Social Services
What it offers The county social services office for New Hanover County. Ask here about Food and Nutrition Services (SNAP), Work First cash help, energy help, Medicaid and child care help.
How to reach 1650 Greenfield St., Wilmington, NC 28401. Call 910.798.3500. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/new-hanover-county-department-social-services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Onslow County Department of Social Services
What it offers The county social services office for Onslow County. Ask here about Food and Nutrition Services (SNAP), Work First cash help, energy help, Medicaid and child care help.
How to reach 612 College St., Jacksonville, NC 28540. Call 910.455.4145. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/onslow-county-department-social-services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Orange County Department of Social Services
What it offers The county social services office for Orange County. Ask here about Food and Nutrition Services (SNAP), Work First cash help, energy help, Medicaid and child care help.
How to reach 113 Mayo St., Hillsborough, NC 27278. Call 919.245.2800. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/orange-county-department-social-services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Pitt County Department of Social Services
What it offers The county social services office for Pitt County. Ask here about Food and Nutrition Services (SNAP), Work First cash help, energy help, Medicaid and child care help.
How to reach 1717 W. Fifth St., Greenville, NC 27834. Call 252.902.1110. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/pitt-county-department-social-services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Rowan County Department of Social Services
What it offers The county social services office for Rowan County. Ask here about Food and Nutrition Services (SNAP), Work First cash help, energy help, Medicaid and child care help.
How to reach 1813 E. Innes St., Salisbury, NC 28146. Call 704.216.8330. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/rowan-county-department-social-services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Union County Department of Social Services
What it offers The county social services office for Union County. Ask here about Food and Nutrition Services (SNAP), Work First cash help, energy help, Medicaid and child care help.
How to reach 2330 Concord Avenue, Monroe, NC 28110. Call 704.296.4300. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/union-county-department-social-services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Wayne County Department of Social Services
What it offers The county social services office for Wayne County. Ask here about Food and Nutrition Services (SNAP), Work First cash help, energy help, Medicaid and child care help.
How to reach 1560 Clingman St., Goldsboro, NC 27534. Call 919.580.4034. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/wayne-county-department-social-services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Things to grab if you need to leave fast, only if it's safe
My safety plan
Fill this in with a pen, or snap a photo and keep it on your phone. You've got this!
If I need to leave
Calls I made today
Key numbers to keep
You're doing the right thing
Asking for help is a strong thing to do, my friend. You don't need to have it all figured out before you call. Take it one step at a time, and call again tomorrow if you need to.
About this guide
Made by the Bunklow team. No sign up, no paywall, no cost. Please share it with anyone who could use it. Bunklow does not run these programs and cannot speak for them. We list what each place says it offers and how to reach it, and you decide what to use. This is not a full list of every place that can help. Every source was checked on October 22, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it. We are always happy to hear from you!
Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.
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