Part of an ongoing series for WGA’s focus area Addressing Violence Against Women and Girls.
As women dedicated to lifting others up, we often find ourselves in the role of confidante, caregiver, or quiet champion. If someone close to you—perhaps a friend, colleague, or family member—might be experiencing domestic or sexual violence, your support can be a lifeline. Whether you’ve observed troubling signs or she has trusted you enough to share her story, your compassion and calm presence matter more than you may realize.
First and foremost, take a moment to recognize what a gift your support is. Not everyone has someone in their life who will listen without judgment or be willing to walk beside them in times of fear or uncertainty.
Here are some meaningful steps you can take:
- Create a safe space for conversation. Speak in a quiet, neutral location, without her abuser present—one without smart devices such as Alexa, Echo, or Ring that might be used to monitor her.
- Lead with love. Reassure her that she is seen, valued, and not alone. A simple “I care about you” can be a powerful start.
- Gently share your observations. Mention specific things you’ve noticed without making assumptions or accusations.
- Ask how you can help. Respect her perspective—even if she denies abuse. Your belief in her and her autonomy is foundational.
- Offer resources, not ultimatums. Let her know there are confidential organizations that specialize in domestic and sexual violence support, including safety planning. Offer to make a call together, or let her borrow your phone if she’s concerned about privacy.
It’s natural to want to help her leave immediately, but it’s important to know that the time during and just after leaving an abuser is often the most dangerous. Your role is not to make decisions for her, but to walk with her as she considers her options—without pressure or judgment..
It can be really hard to wait until someone is ready, but it could be your support that makes all the difference and saves her life.
As women who understand the power of community and compassion, we can be catalysts for hope and healing—one conversation at a time.
Local Resources in Northeast Florida
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911.
- Baker County
- Hubbard House: Provides emergency shelter, legal advocacy, and support services for victims of domestic violence. (904) 354-3114
- Women’s Center of Jacksonville: Provides services to victims of sexual assault: (904) 721-7273
- Clay County
- Quigley House: Offering 24/7 crisis support, emergency shelter, legal services, and court advocacy to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. (904) 284-0061
- Duval County
- Hubbard House: Provides emergency shelter, legal advocacy, and support services for victims of domestic violence. (904) 354-3114
- Women’s Center of Jacksonville: Provides services to victims of sexual assault: (904) 721-7273
- Nassau County
- Micah’s Place: (904) 225-9979
- Women’s Center of Jacksonville: Provides services to victims of sexual assault: (904) 721-7273
- Putnam County
- Lee Conlee House: Offers emergency shelter, supportive housing, and advocacy services for victims of domestic violence. (386) 325-3141
- Florida Department of Health in Putnam County: Provides counseling and advocacy for victims of sexual violence. (386) 326-3200
- St. Johns County
- Betty Griffin Center: Offers a 24-hour helpline, emergency shelter, counseling, and legal advocacy for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. (904) 824-1555
Statewide and National Resources
- Florida Domestic Violence Hotline: Provides confidential support and can connect you to local services. 1-800-500-1119
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: Available 24/7 for confidential support. 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- Florida Abuse Hotline: For reporting suspected abuse of children, elders, or vulnerable adults. 1-800-96-ABUSE (1-800-962-2873)