How to Help Friends & Family

There are many ways that you can help friends and family who have been affected by domestic, sexual or child abuse:

• Be aware of the warning signs of abuse, which could be physical or emotional. This includes changes in behavior, such as kids acting out; signs of neglect; or outward signs of physical abuse such as bruises or broken bones.
• If a friend or family member admits to being abused, or to being an abuser, listen, be patient, express concern.
• Encourage friends or family members to seek help from a professional organization such as The Center for Family Justice as soon as possible.

How we can help

The Crisis Services program at The Center provides free and confidential assistance through our bilingual 24/7 domestic violence and sexual assault hotlines. Hotline staff provides immediate crisis intervention, safety planning, information and resources for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Hotline staff will also provide support, information and resources to family, friends and service providers who are impacted by these issues. Please note that The Center utilizes Language Line services to provide assistance to victims in more than 40 languages.

• Domestic Violence: (203) 384-9559
• Rape Crisis Hotline: (203) 333-2233
• Vedas (Spanish) 888-568-8332

Our offices

The best way to access services at The Center is through one of our 24/7 hotlines.  If that is not possible, you may walk-in to any of our locations during business hours:

Main Office:

• Bridgeport: The Center for Family Justice, 753 Fairfield Ave., Bridgeport, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Satellite offices:

• Fairfield: Fairfield Senior Center, 100 Mona Terrace, 203-256-3130, Wednesday and Thursday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Monroe: Town Hall, 7 Fan Hill Road, Room 213, 203-452-2800 Ext. 1177. Monday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Trumbull: Mary J. Sherlach Counseling Center, 121 Old Mine Road, 203-261-5110, by appointment
• Stratford: Town of Stratford Community Services, Birdseye Municipal Complex, 468 Birdseye St., 203-385-4095, by appointment

Child abuse

If you suspect child abuse, you can report it to the Department of Children and Families (DCF), anonymously if preferred. No physical evidence is required. A reasonable suspicion is enough to warrant a report. Call DCF at 800-842-2288.

Educate yourself

The Center for Family Justice provides training workshops and conducts community education and awareness events throughout the year.

Hope starts here!

Let The Center for Family Justice become your lifeline.

Please call us today at 203-334-6154