Domestic violence is complex and can affect anyone

Domestic Violence Survivor
You’re not alone. It’s not your fault. You may not recognize that you are in an abusive relationship. Abusers often rely on subtle and coercive tactics to control their partners such as isolation, intimidation, manipulation, gaslighting, stalking, and other behaviors to maintain power. The abuse often builds gradually over time and comes in many forms that are not always physical violence, including emotional, financial, psychological, sexual, and spiritual coercion.

Domestic violence doesn’t always look the same, which can be confusing and overwhelming for victims and those who want to help them. No one deserves to experience abuse of any kind — for any reason.

To learn more about the signs of domestic violence or how you can help someone who is being abused, visit the Understanding Domestic Violence and FAQ pages.

Our Programs and Services

YWCA San Diego County provides services to all genders of adult and child survivors who are experiencing domestic violence and abuse. Our comprehensive programs are designed to help survivors understand their options and access critical resources at the pace and level that is best for their unique circumstances. Our priority is to provide safe and flexible solutions that lead to healing, stability, and opportunity for a healthy and thriving life.

Crisis Intervention Services

Immediate protection and safety planning for people experiencing domestic violence and abuse

24-Hour Crisis Hotline (619.234.3164): Certified advocates provide crisis counseling for victims and survivors, safety planning to minimize risk, and resources to gain protection or help someone in need.

Emergency Shelter (The Vi McKinney Becky’s House® Shelter): Safe, temporary housing for adults and children in need of immediate protection and support. Intake available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Housing & Shelter Programs

Stable housing and homeless prevention services to continue support for adult and child survivors

Interim Shelter: Extended temporary shelter for survivors to develop a housing plan while accessing legal and counseling services.

Transitional Housing: Longer-term program for adults and children to continue healing, develop life skills, and improve economic and housing stability.

Housing First: Housing coordination with short-term rental and financial assistance for survivors to improve wellbeing, increase economic strength, and gain permanent housing.

Advocacy & Support Services

Integrated services to assist individuals and families in our housing and shelter programs

Legal Support: Financial assistance for domestic violence related cases for family law and immigration services through outside legal partners.

  • Legal matters include restraining orders, divorce, child custody/visitation, child and spousal support, and immigration services for domestic violence victims.
  • Safe at Home enrollment.

Case Management: Survivor advocacy and support to develop plans for legal, financial, educational, employment, housing, and other critical needs.

Mental Health Counseling: Individual and group therapy to support healing for adult and youth survivors participating in our housing programs.

Transportation Assistance: Eligible program participants receive support through gas cards, public transit passes, or ride share for vital transportation to gain or maintain employment; attend medical, legal, or housing appointments; and access other essential services.

Commitment to Non-Discrimination

YWCA San Diego County does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical condition), national origin, ancestry, age, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, HIV/AIDS status, family care status, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other basis protected by local, state, and federal laws. When necessary, YWCA also makes reasonable accommodations for clients with disabilities.