"Optimism isn't a belief that things will automatically get better; it's a conviction that we can make things better.” - Melinda Gates
Family Crisis Resources
Sometimes families experience crises and need some extra help. A crisis is frightening, but you need never be alone. By learning how to navigate the resources available to you, you can become stronger and more prepared. For a comprehensive list of resources including housing, income and employment, food, health care, family services, clothing, mental health services, substance use, legal services, transportation, and disaster, please refer to the United Way directory at http://www.pa211east.org/lancaster
If you need assistance in navigating the website, please contact me. I am always happy to assist!
** NATIONAL SUICIDE AND CRISIS LIFELINE: Dial 9-8-8 **
The United Way and Penn Medicine/Lancaster General Health have provided this information:
Before a crisis occurs, make a safety plan
Stash some cash, spare keys, and prescriptions
Apparel for you and your children
Financial records, bank books, important papers
Escape plan (police, motel, friend, SHELTER)
Telephone numbers for help
You deserve to be safe
FIVE QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF IF YOU THINK YOU MAY BE IN DANGER FROM A DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SITUATION:
* Are you ever afraid of your partner?
* Do you feel like you're walking on eggshells at home?
* Have you ever been pushed, hit, or kicked by your partner?
* Does your partner say things that make you feel badly about yourself?
* Has your partner ever threatened to hurt you or your loved ones?
If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, you may be at risk for living with domestic violence. Please learn about local resources before you need them. Plan a safe place for your children - their job is to stay safe, not to protect you. Arrange a signal with a neighbor to call police if you are in danger. Talk to your doctor. Go to a hospital emergency room if you or your children are hurt, and ask them to document your injuries. If you see the warning signs that may signal a violent episode, PUT YOUR PLAN INTO ACTION!
Important Phone Numbers to call to find out where to obtain services you may need in an emergency:
United Way LINC ................................................................................................................................................. 211
Contact Lancaster 24 Hour Helpline .............................................................................................................. 717-299-4855 (TTY: 717-299-7184)
EMERGENCY (24/7/365) .................................................................................................................................... 911 (Police, Fire, Medical Emergency
YWCA Sexual Assault Prevention and Counseling Center ...................................................................... 717-392-7273
Domestic Violence Services of Lancaster County ...................................................................................... 717-299-1249
Crisis Intervention ................................................................................................................................................ 717-394-2631 (TTY: 717-399-7417
Human Trafficking Resource Center .............................................................................................................. 1-800-373-7888
Emergency Services For Children (24 hours)
Child Line (to report child abuse) ..................................................................................................................... 1-800-932-0313
Safe Haven (if you are unable to care for your infant up to 28 days old, you can leave the infant at any hospital anonymously as long as the child is unharmed and not the victim of a crime) ................................................................................................... 1-866-921-7233
Safe Families for children (emergency respite for children) ..................................................................... 717-399-3213
Legal
Mid-Penn Legal Services ...................................................................................................................................... 717-299-0971
District Attorney's Office, Prosecution .............................................................................................................. 717-299-8100
Domestic Violence Legal Clinic .......................................................................................................................... 717-291-5826
Lancaster Bar Association - Lawyer Referral Service .................................................................................... 717-393-0737