Violence Prevention
Kara knows that violence, like diabetes or asthma, is a health issue.
All aspects of your health matter, and that includes your safety. Kara connects people to trusted resources and support if they’re experiencing violence at home or in their communities.
Interpersonal violence
If you’re experiencing domestic violence, you’re not alone. One in three women and one in four men in D.C. have experienced physical violence by an intimate partner, according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. There are local organizations that can help. The information you share is confidential, and you can remain anonymous.
- The District Alliance for Safe Housing (DASH) can help you find temporary, permanent, or emergency housing. Call 202-290-2356, ext. 101.
- The Department of Behavioral Health’s (DBH) Access Helpline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at 1-888-793-4357. DBH can provide immediate counseling over the phone or refer you to ongoing care. It also has a Community Response Team that provides on-site assistance to individuals experiencing emotional, psychiatric, or substance use crises.
- The Office of Victim Services and Justice Grants (OVSJG) provides resources to support crime victims, youth, and their families in the District. The DC Victim Hotline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, by phone, text, or online chat. To contact the hotline, dial or text 1-844-4HELPDC (1-844-443-5732).
Street violence
It’s important to feel safe in your community. The Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement’s (ONSE) violence reduction initiative addresses gang violence and other types of street violence. ONSE can deploy staff to deescalate situations between feuding groups and help prevent retaliatory events. It also provides support for individuals and families who have been impacted by violent crimes. You can reach ONSE at 202-807-0440 or visit https://onse.dc.gov/.
If you’re not sure what kind of support you need, please call AmeriHealth Caritas DC’s Rapid Response and Outreach Team line at 1-877-759-6224. We can help. The Rapid Response and Outreach team is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.