A Call to Each of Us
As we come to the close of Domestic Violence Month, we are reminded that we need to look out for one another if we suspect anyone is in any form of abusive relationship. Domestic violence can take many forms, including physical harm, constant verbal put-downs, isolation from loved ones, withholding financial resources, or digital tracking.
If you are experiencing abuse: Please know that you are not alone, you are loved, and we believe you. You do not have to suffer in silence.
We cannot assume that someone else will step in. Each of us is called to be alert, compassionate, and ready to walk with those who are hurting.
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves… defend the rights of the poor and needy.” (Proverbs 31:8-9)
This means we are called to:
- Notice – Pay attention. A smile on Sunday morning does not always equal peace at home.
- Listen without judgement – Be quick to hear and slow to speak. Sometimes the greatest gift is presence, not advice. Believe their story and point them to trained individuals for help.
- Affirm truth – God does not condone control, intimidation, or abuse. His design for our relationships is to experience Christ’s love, not fear.
- Avoid offering dangerous advice: Don’t pressure someone to stay in a dangerous situation.
- Offer hope – Remind the hurting that Christ redeems, restores, and gives a new identity as His beloved child.
- Connect them to professionals: The safest step is to connect individuals with trained advocates who can help them create a safety plan.
Safe Resources for Help
If you or someone you know needs support, confidential and professional help is available
Alameda County 24‑Hour Crisis Hotlines
- A Safe Place: 510‑536‑7233
- Building Futures with Women & Children: 1‑866‑292‑9688
- Crisis Support Services of the East Bay: 1‑800‑309‑2131
- Ruby’s Place: 888‑339‑7233
- Tri‑Valley Haven: 1‑800‑884‑8119
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1‑800‑799‑7233
Emergency Shelters & Support Programs
- A Safe Place: Shelter and survivor support services.
- Tri‑Valley Haven: Shelter and sexual assault services.
- Restorative Pathways: Shelter for survivors of domestic violence, trafficking, and homelessness.
- Building Futures: Housing and support for survivors.
- Bay Area Legal Aid: Free legal services for domestic violence survivors
- Alameda County District Attorney’s Office – Victim/Witness Assistance Program: Crisis intervention, court support, and compensation assistance. Contact: 510‑267‑8872 / 510‑267‑8857.
- Comprehensive Support: Alameda County Family Justice Center (ACFJC) Phone:510‑267‑8800
- Provides coordinated services including counseling, legal help, advocacy, and safety planning.
Counseling & Mental Health Services
- ACCESS Mental Health Referrals: 1‑800‑491‑9099
- Alameda Family Services: 510‑629‑6300
- Family Paths: 510‑893‑9230
Let us commit to being a church that stands "With Survivors, Always"—offering unconditional grace, prayer, and protection to those who need it most.