Many communities have temporary homes called battered women's shelters, where women and their children who are victims of domestic violence may stay until the crisis passes or until they are able to find a permanent place to relocate. The best way to find these shelters is to consult the local police, welfare department, neighborhood resource center or women's center. You can also look in your phone book under Crisis Intervention Services, Human Service Organizations, Social Service Organizations, Family Services, Shelters or Women's Organizations. In some states, the police are required to provide an apparent battering victim a list of referrals for emergency housing, legal services and counseling services.

If you're having trouble finding resources in your area, you can contact the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), 303-839-1852, www.ncadv.org. NCADV provides information and referrals for abused women and their children; they may know of assistance programs near you. Or you can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline, 800-799-SAFE (7233), www.ndvh.org.