Domestic Violence Resources in Kentucky

Last updated September 5, 2026

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence in Kentucky, you are not alone — and help is available right now. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) is free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including chat at thehotline.org. Advocates can help you safety-plan, find local shelter, and connect you with Kentucky-specific resources no matter where in the state you are.

Kentucky has a network of local domestic violence programs certified through the Kentucky Coalition Against Domestic Violence (KCADV). These member programs provide emergency shelter, advocacy, legal assistance, and counseling across all 120 Kentucky counties. You can reach the KCADV to find your nearest certified program by visiting kcadv.org or by calling 2-1-1 Kentucky, the state's free helpline that connects callers to local services including shelter, food, utilities, and transportation.

Leaving an abusive situation often involves urgent needs beyond safety — including housing, income, healthcare, and childcare. Kentucky's public benefit programs, legal protections, and community organizations can address many of these needs. The resources below are a starting point; a local domestic violence advocate or social worker can help you navigate them based on your specific situation.

Key programs in Kentucky

National Domestic Violence Hotline

Immediate crisis support, safety planning, and referrals to local Kentucky shelters and services. Available in multiple languages.

How to access: Call 1-800-799-7233 (TTY: 1-800-787-3224) or chat at thehotline.org — free, 24/7, confidential.

2-1-1 Kentucky

Connects Kentucky residents to local domestic violence shelters, emergency housing, food assistance, utility help, mental health services, and more.

How to access: Dial 2-1-1 from any phone (free, available 24/7), text your zip code to 898-211, or search online at 211Kentucky.com.

Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) — Domestic Violence Services

The state agency that oversees child protective services, adult protective services, and coordinates with certified domestic violence programs. Can connect survivors to Medicaid, SNAP, TANF cash assistance, and childcare subsidies.

How to access: Visit chfs.ky.gov or call your local DCBS (Department for Community Based Services) office. You can also apply for benefits at kynect.ky.gov.

Kentucky Legal Aid / Legal Aid Networks

Free civil legal assistance for low-income survivors, including help with emergency protective orders (EPOs), divorce, custody, immigration matters related to abuse, and housing disputes. Kentucky has regional legal aid programs covering all counties.

How to access: Call the statewide legal aid intake line at 1-800-272-1788 or visit lawhelp.org/ky to find your regional program. Local domestic violence advocates can also help make referrals.

HUD-Funded Emergency and Transitional Housing (Continuum of Care)

Emergency shelter, transitional housing, and rapid rehousing programs for survivors fleeing domestic violence. Funded federally through HUD and administered locally by Continuums of Care across Kentucky.

How to access: Call 2-1-1 Kentucky or contact your nearest KCADV-certified domestic violence program (kcadv.org) to find available shelter and housing programs in your area.

Domestic Violence Resources resources for Kentucky

National Domestic Violence Hotline

Nationwide

24/7 confidential support, safety planning, and local referrals for those affected by relationship abuse.

1-800-799-7233
Visit

StrongHearts Native Helpline

Nationwide

Culturally appropriate domestic and sexual violence support for Native Americans and Alaska Natives.

1-844-762-8483
Visit

loveisrespect

Nationwide

Support for young people to prevent and end dating abuse. Call, text (LOVEIS to 22522), or chat.

1-866-331-9474
Visit
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