I have never been in one. But I did have a a Vera House representative helping me out in the beginning. They offered to give me shelter, but I didn't want to do that to the kids. He wasn't physically abusive either. Use to be until I had him arrested. But once he started going through my things and taking police reports, and other documents of mine, and sneaking into my room in the mornings my lawyer was able to get a stay away order and get me sole possesion of the house and its contents until the divorce is settled.

longing,
i know of one in our area, MD, and i wouldn't go there. (just my opinion). There have to be better ones out there...check with your area's Community Services Program and they can help you, or Social Services. Some women's shelters are not advertised for the sole purpose of protection for the women/children.
I understand the mental abuse, although my stbx would deny that was happening. May God be with you! HUGS, and a shoulder to lean on if needed.

Hi, I spent one night in a Shelter. After he had hit me pretty good. I drove to the Police Station. They had these people who deal with that interview me Crisis Support. Then I got a police escort. With me following in my car beind a police car to the shelter. Of course the shelter is in a secret location. They have high security, cameras, alarms etc. When I got to the Shelter they took down alot of information. My health history and general information. Then they showed me to me room which I had to share with another woman. The were 2 twin beds in the room. The room was nicely decorated. The people were nice. They gave me a gift bag with toiletries in it. You have to split the chores amoungest all of the other women in the house. They supply your food. But, you have to cook it and clean up after yourself. You have to do your own laundry, clean your room etc.. They have counseling and other services. You can go out during the day but, you have to be back in the shelter by 7:30 or 8:00 P.M. Maybe 8:30 P.M. on weekends. They were alittle strick. You had to be in your room by 11:30 P.M. I didn't sleep. I was too upset. I spent the night journaling 50 pages. I wasn't there long enough to get comfortable but, if I had to go again I would. It is not a vacation. They try very hard to get you back in the the skeem of life. I was really down and I wish my experience was alittle more nuturing but, I am sure all places are different. I did meet some nice people. They had this large room it was like a small groceriey store where you could pick out what food you wanted to cook for yourself. It also had everything you would need besides your clothing. Shampoo, deoderant, and other personal items. All the stuff there is donated by local churches and organizations. They don't keep you there along time. They work on getting you situated elsewhere pretty soon. They will help you find housing, schooling child care etc. It is a transitioning place. I hope this helps you some. If you have any questions, please let me know. They don't want you to have any contact with your ex while you are in there. Good Luck! May GOD bless you and keep you safe.

Your friend,

Lisa
abusehurts

I have heard that The House of Ruth in the Baltimore , MD area is supposed to be pretty good.