Domestic Violence Resources in Tennessee
Last updated September 5, 2026
If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence in Tennessee, you are not alone — and help is available right now. Whether you need an emergency place to stay tonight, legal protection, or longer-term support to rebuild your life, Tennessee has a network of services designed to meet you where you are. You do not have to have a plan figured out before you reach out.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233, available 24/7 in English and Spanish, with interpreter services for other languages) is always a safe first call. Advocates there can help you safety-plan and connect you with local Tennessee shelters and resources. If you prefer to text, you can text START to 88788. For immediate danger, call 911.
Tennessee's network of local domestic violence programs — coordinated in part through the Tennessee Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence — provides emergency shelter, advocacy, and case management across the state. Many survivors also qualify for public benefits such as Medicaid, SNAP, and emergency utility assistance that can make independent living possible. Calling 2-1-1 Tennessee (dial 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898-211) is one of the fastest ways to find programs near you, including shelter openings and legal aid.
Key programs in Tennessee
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Confidential 24/7 crisis support, safety planning, and referrals to local Tennessee shelters, legal advocates, and other resources. Services available by phone, chat, and text.
How to access: Call 1-800-799-7233 (TTY: 1-800-787-3224), text START to 88788, or chat at thehotline.org. No appointment needed; available around the clock.
2-1-1 Tennessee
Tennessee's free statewide information and referral service connecting callers to local domestic violence shelters, transitional housing, food assistance, utility help, mental health services, childcare, and more.
How to access: Dial 2-1-1 from any phone (24/7), text your zip code to 898-211, or search online at 211Tennessee.org. Interpreters available.
Tennessee Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence
Statewide membership organization that maintains a directory of local certified domestic violence programs offering emergency shelter, advocacy, legal assistance, and transitional housing across all 95 Tennessee counties.
How to access: Visit tncoalition.org to find your nearest local member program by county. Local programs provide direct client services; the Coalition itself provides coordination and training.
Tennessee Medicaid (TennCare) and SNAP
TennCare provides health coverage for eligible low-income Tennesseans, including survivors leaving an abusive household. SNAP provides monthly food benefits. Both can be applied for without needing the abuser's cooperation or income information in certain circumstances.
How to access: Apply online at AccessTN.tn.gov, call the Tennessee Department of Human Services at 1-866-311-4287, or visit your local DHS county office. Domestic violence survivors may qualify for expedited SNAP processing.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) — Tennessee
Federally funded program that helps eligible low-income Tennesseans — including survivors setting up new households — pay heating and cooling utility bills and avoid shutoffs.
How to access: Apply through your local Community Action Agency. Call 2-1-1 or visit the Tennessee Department of Human Services website (tn.gov/humanservices) to find the agency serving your county.
Domestic Violence Resources resources for Tennessee
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 Tennessee
- Housing Assistance in Tennessee
- Food Assistance in Tennessee
- Utility Assistance in Tennessee
- Transportation Assistance in Tennessee
- Funeral & End-of-Life Assistance in Tennessee
- Mental Health Resources in Tennessee
- Disability Resources in Tennessee
- Veteran Resources in Tennessee
- Child & Family Assistance in Tennessee
- Senior Resources in Tennessee