Part of a series on domestic violence in Springfield and Greene County.
If you are in need of help, please check out this story on resources available in our area.
- For emergency situations, call 911.
- The Victim Center and Harmony House partner to operate the 24-hour crisis line: 417-864-7233 (SAFE).
How to support someone you suspect is being abused
If you suspect someone close to you is experiencing some form of sexual or domestic violence, you can:
- Listen without judging and don’t rush to provide a solution. Remember the victim is not responsible for someone else’s abusive or violent behavior.
- Believe them. Let them know you support them and ask what you can do to help.
- Support them. Let them know you care about them and let them know it isn’t their fault. Offer to go with them to talk to someone.
- Help them to make their own decisions and get the resources they need rather than doing it for them.
- Encourage them to contact a local program, such as the Greene County Family Justice Center, the Victim Center or Harmony House. These are places where they can talk to a trained advocate, find safe shelter, and get the resources they need to break the cycle.
- Be part of their safety planning. Whether they are leaving, staying or unsure about their next steps, planning for their safety is key.
- Maintain their confidentiality. Do not share this information with anyone else without the specific permission of the victim.
- Understand that healing is a process that is different for each person. Express compassion, nonjudgmental support and acceptance.
— Source: Jane Doe Inc.
Donate or volunteer
The following programs in Springfield and Greene County welcome public support for their programs. Here is a brief description of each program, and how you can help.
Greene County Family Justice Center
The Family Justice Center is a one-stop shop for victims of any kind of abuse. It is at 1418 E. Pythian St., in the former Tefft school building. Walk-ins are welcome from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Friday. All services are free and confidential, and there’s no limit to the number of times a person can seek help or information.
If you would like to support the Family Justice Center, they have a list on their website of needed supplies. The Center also provides internships and volunteer opportunities.
Victim Center
The Victim Center is another resource for victims of any kind of abuse. All services — including education, counseling and victim advocacy — are free. The Victim Center is at 815 W. Tampa St., and walk-ins are welcome from 9 a.m. to noon and from 1 to 5 p.m. Monday-Thursday. The Victim Center’s navigators at the Family Justice Center are available for walk-ins from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Friday.
Go to their website to learn how to support the Victim Center through in-kind donations or financial support.
Harmony House
Harmony House is Greene County’s only shelter for victims of domestic violence and their children. In addition to shelter services, Harmony House offers free victim advocacy, counseling and case management. They can help with safety planning and support for victims who are thinking about leaving an abusive relationship.
Learn more on their website about how you can support Harmony House, through gifts of supplies, donations or volunteering.
Legal Services
Legal Services of Southern Missouri provides legal representation to the low income and elderly in civil matters only, including orders of protection and safety plans. Other services include divorces, child custody, immigration and legal matters related to victimization. The organization works with state and federal prosecutors, law enforcement and victim advocates.
Private attorneys are encouraged to volunteer with Legal Services, and others may provide financial and other support. Learn more through their website.