Frequently Asked Questions
Domestic violence does not discriminate based on gender, social standing, education, race or religion. It can take many forms and will be different in every relationship. Domestic violence can include emotional, physical, psychological, and sexual abuse, and it can happen to anyone.
The Domestic Violence Resource Center is open for walk-ins Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed on holidays. The administrative office is located at 1735 Vassar Street in Reno.
You can also reach us by texting DVHELP or DVSAFE to 839863 during our business hours. Our support hotline is available 24/7 at (775) 329-4150.
No, you don’t need to have a Temporary Protection Order (TPO) to receive services from the Domestic Violence Resource Center. Our advocates will work with you to establish a safety plan that is appropriate for your needs.
Any person who believes that she or he has been, or might become a victim of domestic violence may ask the Court for a Temporary Protection Order (TPO). You do not need an attorney to apply for and obtain a TPO.
RELATIONSHIP REQUIREMENTS:
In order to obtain a TPO, you and the batterer must be related by blood, be or have been married, be or have been living together, have at least one child in common, have or have been in a dating relationship.
If you are related to the batterer as required, you can obtain a TPO when any of the following acts have been committed against you or your child:
- A battery
- An assault
- Compelling the other by force or threat to perform an act from which she/he has the right to refrain or to refrain from an act which she/he has the right to perform.
- A sexual assault
- A knowing, purposeful or reckless course of conduct intended to harass the other.
- Stalking
- Arson
- Trespassing
- Larceny
- Destruction of private property
- Carrying a concealed weapon without a permit
- False Imprisonment
- Unlawful entry of the other’s residence, or forcible entry against the other’s will if there is a reasonable foreseeable risk of harm to the other from the entry
The following items aren’t required to obtain a TPO. If any apply to your situation and you have them available, it is suggested that you bring them with you.
- Name and badge number of Police Officers responding to this or prior battering.
- Copy of police reports from this or prior battering
- Witnesses to this or prior battering
- Names, phone numbers and/or addresses of witnesses to this or prior battering
- Emergency room reports for this or prior battering
- Photographs of injuries
No. You do not need to file a police report to receive Domestic Violence Resource Center’s services.
The Domestic Violence Resource Center serves families with adolescent boys. Domestic Violence Resource Center advocates determine on a case by case basis what shelter settings are best for each family and does not deny services to families seeking relief from domestic violence.
We aren’t able to accommodate pets, however, we can assist you in arranging for safe shelter at Noah’s Reno.
No. It is not safe for the Domestic Violence Resource Center to call you at home because our phone number could be revealed to your abuser. We don’t ever want to jeopardize your safety. Please call the Domestic Violence Resource Center at (775) 329-4150 or text DVHELP or DVSAFE to 839863.
It is important to remain supportive and non-judgmental if you know someone who is experiencing domestic violence. Here are some reasons victims rationalize staying in unhealthy relationships:
“I believe the threats about what will happen to me if I leave.”
“I was told that what is happening is my fault. I’m convinced this is probably true. I’m sure no one else could love me, and I don’t want to live my life all alone.”
“He doesn’t mean to hurt me with words or threats. He just needs an outlet for his anger. He has a lot of stress. It will all turn around and we will be happy again.”
“My children believe what is said about me and won’t want to live with me if I leave. I’ll lose custody and will be declared an unfit parent. It’s best if the children are raised with both parents.”
“I don’t have any money of my own. I can’t sign checks or withdraw money from the bank account. How would I survive? Where would I live?”
“I took a vow ‘for better or worse.’ I’m not going to fail at this marriage or give up hope.”
“No one will believe me.”
“He’s trying to stop. He always says he’s sorry, and brings me flowers. He loves me.”
It is important to be non-judgmental and supportive towards loved ones who have experienced or may be experiencing abuse. The best thing you can do for them is refer them to an organization like Domestic Violence Resource Center, an organization with knowledgeable and supportive staff who can provide help to them in a safe and confidential environment.
No. We offer our services to victims of all forms of domestic abuse.
There is no cost. All of Domestic Violence Resource Center’s emergency services are offered at no cost to our clients.
You can call or access the Domestic Violence Resource Center anonymously.
No. You can receive Domestic Violence Resource Center’s services even if you are not a U.S. citizen.
Yes. Domestic Violence Resource Center’s services are available for both men and women. Our emergency shelter is not co-ed, but we are able to arrange for other housing options for men.
