What services do shelters typically offer in IPV response?

• A. Provide crisis housing, safety planning, advocacy, legal information
• B. Only provide funding for housing
• C. Provide medical treatment only
• D. No services

Answer: (A)

In IPV shelter work, the key idea is that shelters function as safe, supportive hubs rather than just places to sleep. They provide crisis housing so survivors have a secure, private space during a dangerous time. They also emphasize safety planning, helping individuals map out concrete steps to stay safe now and after leaving the shelter. Advocacy is another core piece, assisting with communication and navigation across police, courts, housing, and social services. Legal information is offered to help survivors understand options like protection orders, custody, and other rights, and staff often help with paperwork and referrals or accompaniment to appointments. Shelters frequently connect people with additional supports such as counseling, case management, and community resources. The other options are too narrow or incorrect because they imply only funding housing, only medical treatment, or no services at all, none of which capture the breadth of support shelters typically provide.