Crisis Center Hotline is available 24/7 by calling or texting 580-234-7644

Calling the YWCA crisis hotline is often the first step for individuals who need help, support, and guidance in situations involving domestic violence, sexual assault, or other crises. This 24/7 hotline is staffed with trained advocates who are ready to provide immediate assistance and resources. When someone reaches out to the crisis hotline, they are met with a compassionate and non-judgmental response.

The process typically involves:

Immediate Support: When you call the YWCA crisis hotline, you will connect with a trained advocate who will offer emotional support, active listening, and a safe space to share your experiences and concerns. This initial contact can be crucial for someone who may be in a distressing or dangerous situation.

Safety Planning: Advocates can help individuals create a personalized safety plan based on their unique circumstances. This plan may involve finding safe places to go, connecting with local resources, or seeking legal assistance.

Resource Referrals: YWCA advocates are well-informed about available resources. They can provide referrals to ensure that survivors receive the specific help they need.

Empowerment: Perhaps one of the most important aspects of reaching out to the crisis hotline is the empowerment that comes with it. Survivors often feel isolated and without options, but the hotline can provide a lifeline and the knowledge that help is available.

Confidentiality: It's important to note that contacting the YWCA crisis hotline is confidential. Advocates will respect your privacy and provide a safe space to discuss your situation.

By calling the crisis hotline, individuals can take a crucial step towards breaking free from abusive situations, starting the healing process, and ultimately regaining control over their lives. This initial point of contact can be the turning point that leads to safety, support, and a brighter future. It's a lifeline for those in need, reminding them that they don't have to face their challenges alone.

Yes. However, we do accommodate walk-ins when there are available time slots.

Keep in mind, My Sister’s Closet and Project Cinderella shop times differ than our office hours. To ensure that you receive the service you need promptly, it's best to call 580-234-7651 and schedule an appointment. This way, you can secure your spot and make the most of these valuable resources.

No. All YWCA Crisis Center services are available to the public for free. Not all survivors of abuse require shelter, therefore the emergency shelter is just one of the many services we provide.

Are you concerned that someone you care about is experiencing abuse? Maybe you’ve noticed some warning signs, including:

• Their partner puts them down in front of other people

• They are constantly worried about making their partner angry

• They constantly check in or ask permission from their partner

• They make excuses for their partner’s behavior

• Their partner is extremely jealous or possessive

• They have unexplained marks or injuries

• They’ve stopped spending time with friends and family

• They are depressed or anxious, or you notice changes in their personality

If someone you love is being abused, it can be so difficult to know what to do. Your instinct may be to “save” them from the relationship, but it’s not that easy. After all, there are many reasons why people stay in abusive relationships, and leaving can be a very dangerous time for a victim.

Abuse is about power and control, so one of the most important ways you can help a person in an abusive relationship is to consider how you might empower them to make their own decisions. Additionally, you can offer support in various ways.

Acknowledge: They are in a very difficult and scary situation, be supportive and listen: Let them know that the abuse is not their fault. Reassure them that they are not alone and that there is help and support out there like the YWCA. It may be difficult for them to talk about the abuse. Let them know that you are available to help whenever they may need it. What they need most is someone who will believe and listen.

Be non-judgmental: Respect their decisions. There are many reasons why victims stay in abusive relationships. They may leave and return to the relationship many times. Do not criticize their decisions or try to guilt them. They will need your support even more during those times.

Support: It’s important for you to support them no matter what they decide and help them find a way to safety and peace. Support is critical and the more they feel supported by people who care for them, the easier it will be for them to take the steps necessary to get and stay safe away from their abusive partner.

If they end that relationship, continue to be supportive of them: Even though the relationship was abusive, they may still feel sad and lonely once it is over. They will need time to mourn the loss of the relationship and will especially need your support at that time.

Help them develop a safety plan: The YWCA can help in creating a safety plan for wherever they are in their relationship — whether they’re choosing to stay, preparing to leave, or have already left. You can ask them how you can help support their safety plan. Remember that you can call the hotline to find information on staying safe.

Encourage: them to participate in activities outside of the relationship with friends and family. Encourage them to talk to people who can provide help and guidance:

Call or text the YWCA at 580-234-7644. Offer to support them as they call in.

Lastly: Remember that you cannot ‘rescue’ them. Although it is difficult to see someone you care about get hurt, ultimately, they are the person who must make the decisions about what they want to do.

Victims come to us in a variety of ways. A majority of our clients have contacted the Crisis Hotline and spoken to a Victim Advocate about their need for shelter. We ask them to come in for an assessment or conduct a safety assessment over the phone. This is a chance for the Victim Advocate to evaluate their situation (we do NOT require proof of abuse) and determine if the Crisis Center is the right place for them. Our goal is to provide emergency shelter for victims in immediate danger. Length of stay in the Crisis Center is generally 30 days. Residents are free to leave at any time, or can alternatively, request an extension which is reviewed by the Crisis Center Director.