Domestic Violence Resources in New Jersey
Last updated September 5, 2026
If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence in New Jersey, you are not alone — and help is available right now. New Jersey has a network of crisis hotlines, emergency shelters, legal protections, and benefit programs designed to support survivors at every stage of their journey, whether they are still in a dangerous situation or rebuilding their life after leaving.
The fastest way to connect with local shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, and financial assistance is to call 2-1-1 New Jersey (dial 2-1-1, available 24/7) or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 (TTY: 1-800-787-3224). Both lines are confidential and can connect you directly to services in your county. If you are in immediate danger, always call 911 first.
Beyond crisis services, New Jersey survivors may qualify for a range of public benefits — including emergency housing assistance, food support through SNAP, health coverage through Medicaid, and utility help through LIHEAP — that can make leaving safer and more sustainable. The sections below walk through the most important programs and how to reach them.
Key programs in New Jersey
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Confidential 24/7 crisis support, safety planning, and referrals to local shelters, legal advocates, and counseling programs anywhere in New Jersey.
How to access: Call 1-800-799-7233 (TTY: 1-800-787-3224) or text START to 88788. Live chat is available at thehotline.org. No appointment needed; calls are free and confidential.
2-1-1 New Jersey
A statewide information and referral service that connects callers to county-level domestic violence shelters, transitional housing, emergency financial aid, legal services, childcare, and more.
How to access: Dial 2-1-1 from any phone, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also search at nj211.org. Interpreters are available for callers who need language assistance.
New Jersey Division on Women – Domestic Violence Services
The state agency that funds and oversees county-based domestic violence programs across New Jersey, including certified shelters, transitional housing, and advocacy services. They can direct survivors to their county's designated domestic violence program.
How to access: Contact the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (which houses the Division on Women) at dcf.nj.gov, or ask 2-1-1 to connect you to your county's certified domestic violence program. Every county in New Jersey has at least one.
SNAP, Medicaid, and LIHEAP (NJ Department of Human Services)
Survivors may qualify for food assistance through SNAP, free or low-cost health insurance through NJ FamilyCare/Medicaid, and help paying utility bills through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Domestic violence survivors often receive expedited processing.
How to access: Apply online at myunifiednj.com (the NJ Benefits Portal) or visit your county Board of Social Services office. Call 2-1-1 if you need help locating your local office or navigating the application. Let staff know you are a domestic violence survivor, as this may affect eligibility and processing timelines.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Free, confidential mental health crisis support for survivors experiencing trauma, depression, thoughts of self-harm, or acute emotional distress. Available to anyone in New Jersey.
How to access: Call or text 988 at any time, day or night. Chat is also available at 988lifeline.org. Interpreters are available. This line complements — but does not replace — domestic violence–specific hotlines.
Domestic Violence Resources resources for New Jersey
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Nationwide24/7 confidential support, safety planning, and local referrals for those affected by relationship abuse.
StrongHearts Native Helpline
NationwideCulturally appropriate domestic and sexual violence support for Native Americans and Alaska Natives.
loveisrespect
NationwideSupport for young people to prevent and end dating abuse. Call, text (LOVEIS to 22522), or chat.
Other resources in New Jersey
- Housing Assistance in New Jersey
- Food Assistance in New Jersey
- Utility Assistance in New Jersey
- Transportation Assistance in New Jersey
- Funeral & End-of-Life Assistance in New Jersey
- Mental Health Resources in New Jersey
- Disability Resources in New Jersey
- Veteran Resources in New Jersey
- Child & Family Assistance in New Jersey
- Senior Resources in New Jersey