Leaving an abusive situation is the most dangerous time — and the number one reason people stay is having nowhere safe to go. In San Antonio, you do have somewhere to go. It’s free, it’s confidential, and it’s open right now.
If you are in immediate danger, call 911 first.
The Battered Women and Children’s Shelter: call (210) 733-8810
Family Violence Prevention Services runs San Antonio’s largest domestic violence shelter. The crisis hotline is answered 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, in English and Spanish — and the advocate who answers can arrange emergency shelter on the spot.
- Crisis hotline (24/7): (210) 733-8810
- Programs: 210-930-3669
- Location: 7911 Broadway, San Antonio (exact shelter address kept confidential for safety — the hotline will direct you)
What shelter is actually like
FVPS’s shelter provides:
- A safe bed for you and your children
- Food, diapers, clothing, and basic supplies — you don’t need to bring anything
- Counseling for adults, children, and families
- Legal services, including help with protective orders
- Case management to plan your next steps: housing, jobs, benefits
- A pet shelter — you don’t have to leave your pet behind to get safe
Transitional housing: the bridge after shelter
Emergency shelter is short-term. FVPS’s Transitional Housing Program helps survivors build toward independence — continued counseling and case management while you develop the skills and stability for a new beginning: employment, budgeting, permanent housing.
What to bring (and what not to worry about)
If you can safely gather them: ID, birth certificates, Social Security cards, bank/benefit info, medications, a few days of clothes, and anything irreplaceable (photos). If you can’t — go anyway. Shelter staff deal with this every day and will help you replace documents and get what you need.
If the shelter is full
Call anyway. Advocates maintain relationships across the region and will find you a safe placement — another shelter, a hotel voucher, or a safety plan until space opens. Also dial 2-1-1 for additional emergency housing referrals, and Haven for Hope (210-220-2100) for general homeless services if needed.
Planning to leave? Read this first
Leaving is the most dangerous time in an abusive relationship. Before you go:
- Call the hotline and make a safety plan with an advocate — don’t improvise this part.
- Use a safe phone or computer (library, friend’s phone) — your devices may be monitored.
- Don’t tell the abuser you’re leaving, and be careful who else you tell.
FAQ
Is emergency shelter really free?
Yes — shelter, food, counseling, and legal services through FVPS are all free.
Can I bring my kids?
Yes — the shelter serves women and children. Call the hotline to discuss your specific family situation; advocates will make it work.
How long can I stay?
Emergency shelter is short-term (typically around 30 days, varying by need), with transitional housing available afterward for those working toward independence.
Will my abuser find out where I am?
Shelter locations are kept confidential, and staff are trained in safety protocols. Tell the hotline advocate about any specific safety concerns when you call.
