Find Safety at AWARE’s Emergency Shelter—Mercer County’s Refuge from Abuse
When home isn’t safe, AWARE’s emergency shelter offers a secure, confidential haven for survivors of domestic violence and their families. Here, your safety, privacy, and dignity come first. Whether you arrive in the middle of the night or with nothing but the clothes you’re wearing, you’ll find real support and a path to a safer tomorrow.
What to Expect—A Secure Home Away from Home
Our shelter is designed with survivors in mind:
- Private or semi-private rooms for you and your children
- Essentials provided: food, clothing, personal care items, linens
- Welcoming common spaces and on-site staff to help you feel at ease
- Immediate needs handled, including help replacing lost IDs or documents
No matter your situation, we’re prepared to meet you where you are and help you recover.
More Than a Roof—Comprehensive Services Onsite
While staying in shelter, you’ll have access to all AWARE’s services:
- Counseling and support groups
- Legal advocacy (help with protection orders, court accompaniment)
- Case management and resources for rebuilding
Who Can Access the Shelter—and How?
AWARE’s shelter is
free of charge and open to anyone in Mercer County experiencing domestic and/or sexual violence—women, men, and their children. Simply call our 24/7 hotline for an intake; there’s no lengthy process or financial requirement. If our shelter is full, we’ll help find you a safe place elsewhere—no one is turned away without a safety plan.
Family and Pets—Safety for Every Loved One
You won’t have to choose between safety and staying together.
- Children are welcome and stay with their parent
- Kid-friendly spaces and resources to support your child’s well-being
- Onsite pet shelter and foster partnerships—your pets are safe with us
- Support for coordinating school, childcare, or special needs
How Long Can I Stay?—Next Steps and Lasting Support
Emergency shelter is meant for short-term safety, usually up to 60 days, while we help you plan your next move. From your first night, our advocates work with you to secure protective orders, explore permanent housing options, connect with employment or counseling, and rebuild your life step by step. You’ll never face an abrupt end—your transition is planned with care and stability in mind.
Total Safety and Confidentiality—Peace of Mind for Every Resident
The shelter location is undisclosed for your protection. Security features, strict confidentiality rules, and partnerships with law enforcement keep you hidden from harm. Residents are also asked to help protect everyone’s privacy by keeping the location secret.
Who can stay at AWARE’s emergency shelter in Mercer County?
AWARE’s emergency shelter is open to any survivor of domestic or sexual violence—including women, men, and children—who needs immediate safety. There are no income, insurance, or residency restrictions. Anyone in Mercer County facing abuse can access the shelter.
How do I get into the shelter, and is it really confidential?
To access the shelter, simply call our 24/7 hotline for a brief intake and assessment. The shelter’s location is kept undisclosed for your safety, and all information is confidential. Only residents, staff, and necessary partners know the address.
What should I bring if I need to come to the shelter suddenly?
Don’t worry if you must leave quickly or have nothing with you. The shelter provides food, clothing, personal care items, and essentials for your children. If you need to replace documents or medications, our staff will help with those next steps.
Can my children and pets stay with me in the shelter?
Yes—children always stay together with their parent at AWARE’s shelter, and we provide child-friendly spaces and support. Pets are considered on a case by case basis.
How long can I stay in the emergency shelter, and what happens when I’m ready to leave?
Most stays last up to 60 days, but we begin planning your next steps as soon as you arrive. Our advocates help with housing, legal protections, and connecting to resources.