Violence Prevention & Response

Need help? It starts with a call. 24/7 Crisis Hotline: 937-222-SAFE

Building safe futures

YWCA Dayton has been supporting survivors of intimate-partner violence since 1886, when we petitioned the Ohio General Assembly for “better legal protection for women against assault.” Every day, we continue to advocate for women and children’s safety and freedom from abuse. All services are free, confidential, and available 24/7/365 for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, stalking, and other forms of intimate-partner and gender-based violence. YWCA Dayton is a dual-service agency providing:

The only domestic violence shelters in Montgomery and Preble counties
The longest-running 24/7 crisis and domestic violence hotline in Montgomery County and the only such helpline in Preble County
Full-service wrap-around clinical services and prevention education

Service Philosophy

YWCA Dayton follows a Trauma Informed Care model, an organizational structure and treatment framework that involves understanding, recognizing, and responding to the effects of all types of trauma. Trauma Informed Care emphasizes physical, psychological, and emotional safety for both clients and providers and helps survivors rebuild a sense of control and empowerment.

100% of YWCA Dayton staff — both frontline and administrative — receive nearly 60 hours of training in Trauma Informed Care, Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI), and Sexual Assault Response principles.

YWCA was an incredible haven when I needed it most. They provided food, shelter, kindness, compassion, and basic needs. I came frightened and alone and I received EVERYTHING they had to give me: help finding a place to live, help with my pets, even a place to cry and feel safe. My journey to feeling better about myself has just begun.