Domestic Violence Resources in Missouri

Last updated September 6, 2026

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence in Missouri, help is available right now — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) can connect you with trained advocates who understand Missouri's resources and can help you safety-plan, whether you are ready to leave or not. You can also text START to 88788 or chat at thehotline.org if calling feels unsafe.

Missouri has a network of local domestic violence shelters and advocacy organizations across the state. Because shelter availability and program names vary by region, the fastest way to find an emergency bed, legal advocate, or counseling near you is to call 2-1-1 Missouri (dial 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898-211). Trained specialists are available around the clock and can identify the closest shelter with open space, transportation help, and other community supports in your county.

Leaving — or even thinking about leaving — is one of the most difficult and dangerous moments for survivors. You do not have to figure this out alone. Beyond emergency shelter, Missouri survivors may qualify for a range of benefits including Medicaid, food assistance, and housing programs that can help rebuild stability. The sections below walk through the most important programs and how to reach them.

Key programs in Missouri

National Domestic Violence Hotline

Free, confidential 24/7 crisis support, safety planning, and referrals to local Missouri shelters and legal advocates. Available in more than 200 languages.

How to access: Call 1-800-799-7233 (TTY: 1-800-787-3224), text START to 88788, or chat online at thehotline.org. No ID or documentation required.

2-1-1 Missouri

Missouri's statewide information and referral service that connects callers to local domestic violence shelters, emergency housing, food pantries, utility help, childcare, transportation, and legal aid — all in one call.

How to access: Dial 2-1-1 from any phone (free, 24/7), text your zip code to 898-211, or search mo.211.org. Interpreters are available.

Missouri Department of Social Services — Family Support Division

Administers SNAP (food assistance), Medicaid (health coverage), Temporary Assistance (cash), and childcare subsidies. Domestic violence survivors may qualify for special waivers that modify standard eligibility rules, such as exemptions from work requirements or child support cooperation.

How to access: Apply online at mydss.mo.gov, call 1-855-373-4636, or visit your local Family Support Division office. Ask specifically about the Family Violence Option when you apply.

HUD-Funded Emergency and Transitional Housing (Continuum of Care)

HUD funds a network of Continuums of Care across Missouri that support emergency shelter, transitional housing, and rapid rehousing specifically for survivors fleeing domestic violence. Programs vary by region but exist in every part of the state.

How to access: Call 2-1-1 Missouri or the National Domestic Violence Hotline to be connected to the nearest HUD-funded shelter or transitional housing program in your area. You can also search HUD's resource locator at hudexchange.info/housing-and-homeless-assistance.

Missouri Legal Services / Civil Legal Aid

Free civil legal help for low-income Missourians, including domestic violence survivors who need orders of protection, divorce, child custody, immigration relief (such as VAWA self-petitions or U-Visas), or help with safety-related housing issues.

How to access: Call the statewide legal aid intake line at 1-888-545-9947 or visit mobar.org/public/lawyer-referral to find a referral. Many local domestic violence shelters also have on-site or partnered legal advocates — ask your shelter or call 2-1-1.

Domestic Violence Resources resources for Missouri

National Domestic Violence Hotline

Nationwide

24/7 confidential support, safety planning, and local referrals for those affected by relationship abuse.

Visit

StrongHearts Native Helpline

Nationwide

Culturally appropriate domestic and sexual violence support for Native Americans and Alaska Natives.

Visit

loveisrespect

Nationwide

Support for young people to prevent and end dating abuse. Call, text (LOVEIS to 22522), or chat.

Visit