Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center

01/19/2026

Our office will be closed on January 19th in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a visionary whose legacy reminds us to speak truth even when it’s not popular. His commitment to courage, justice, and humanity inspires the way we show up for survivors—with love, light, and unwavering support.
Our crisis lines remain open 24/7:
Domestic Violence: 615‑896‑2012
Sexual Assault: 615‑494‑9262

01/08/2026

Many thanks to Ashley Claxton, Program Director with the YMCA (North Rutherford YMCA Ronald Reagan Family Center), one of the nation’s leading nonprofits committed to empowering individuals to reach their full potential, improving well‑being, inspiring action, strengthening communities, and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to become healthier, more confident, connected, and secure. Your leadership, dedication, and passion for service continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those you support, and your impact is felt far beyond the walls of the Y.

01/06/2026

These are great resolutions for survivors in 2026. We are always here to help!

This New Years, put your well-being at the top of your priorities list with simple and essential self-care resolutions. How will you take better care of yourself in 2026? Drop your ideas in the comments!

01/04/2026

Facts!

This is the moment people survive — or don’t.
There is nothing “minor” about this.

01/04/2026

Did you know that domestic violence is a leading cause of homelessness? NNEDV is proud to address this intersection by training transitional housing programs nationwide, improving housing-related policies for survivors, and ensuring that the federal government's housing programs are responsive to the needs of survivors.

Learn more: https://buff.ly/35kHmOq

[Image description: Against an orange background, white and purple text reads: "16 Things You May Not Know about Housing for Survivors. Domestic violence is a leading cause of homelessness. Domestic violence causes 22-57% of homelessness among women. More than 90% of homeless women have experienced severe physical or sexual violence in their lives." NNEDV logo below. The NNEDV logo consists of 66 small house shapes arranged in a large house shape, and text reading: "NNEDV National Network to End Domestic Violence."]

01/01/2026

Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to Nettie Barnes and the Royal Red Jewels chapter of the Red Hat Society — an international sisterhood built on fun, friendship, and philanthropy. Their recent purse drive was an incredible success, resulting in more than 30 beautifully filled handbags for our survivors.
Each bag wasn’t just a donation; it was a gesture of care, dignity, and encouragement. The thoughtful essentials inside will make a meaningful difference in the lives of the women we serve, reminding them that a community of strong, compassionate women stands beside them.
Thank you, Royal Red Jewels, for your generosity and for uplifting our mission in such a powerful way.

12/31/2025

As we wind down 2025, we take time to reflect on the journeys our survivors have walked this year and the small role we were honored to play along the way. Every path looks different, yet each first step was taken with courage, and many reclaimed their sense of safety and healthy boundaries.
As we look ahead to 2026, we hope every survivor feels empowered to make their own choices and reminded—always—that they matter.
Our offices will be closed on 12/31/25 and 1/1/26 , so our staff can practice self‑care and prepare for the year ahead.
Our crisis lines remain available 24/7:
Domestic Violence: 615‑896‑2012
Sexual Assault: 615‑494‑9262

12/27/2025

Wholeheartedly, we are humbly grateful to our Survivor Secret Santas who gave more than smiles to the children of Bernard House. You brought magic, the thrill of hope, and a reminder that goodness shines even in uncertain times—especially at Christmas.
We heard the laughter of children and the sighs of relief from mothers who had one less worry on their shoulders. Your generosity granted Christmas wishes and filled our home with wonderment.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for showing love to our children and for reminding us all of the joy that comes from giving.

12/24/2025

Merry Christmas to all survivors and donors. Our offices will be closed from December 24th through December 26th, but please remember that our crisis lines remain available 24/7:

Domestic Violence: 615-896-2012
Sexual Assault: 615-494-9262

This season, may your days be filled with magic and endless possibilities for hope and healing. We honor the impact made in the lives of survivors and feel blessed to walk alongside you on this journey. Never forget—you matter, and you have a choice.

12/19/2025

We are honored to share that we have received new grant funding from the Heart of Rutherford Foundation to strengthen our court advocacy services.
Through these services, we stand alongside survivors as they file petitions for orders of protection—helping them navigate the legal system and pursue the outcomes they deserve.
It takes immense courage to step forward and seek protection. Our role is to champion survivors’ voices, ensuring they are heard and supported every step of the way.
Together, we can shatter the silence and bring light to the darkness.
We extend our deepest gratitude to the Heart of Rutherford Foundation for believing in this mission and empowering us to continue this vital work.

12/18/2025

At DVSA, we are deeply blessed to serve in a community supported by the Christy-Houston Foundation. Their leadership in education and collaboration for non-profits reminds us that miracles truly happen every day.
Today, we were honored to receive a Santa Gift Grant, and we are profoundly grateful knowing these vital funds will strengthen our mission to serve survivors of domestic and sexual violence.
As we continue to provide lifesaving services at no cost, we are humbled to walk alongside survivors in each healing journey. Together, we are building hope, resilience, and brighter futures.

12/17/2025

We are deeply grateful to the Town of Smyrna, TN - Local Government and the Smyrna Charity Assistance Fund for their generous grant award.
This vital funding ensures that survivors in Smyrna receive impactful services to begin their journey of hope and healing. With this support, we can continue reaching survivors across the northern end of Rutherford County, ensuring that no one faces domestic or sexual violence alone.
💜 Thank you for standing with survivors. Together, we strive to build a community where no victim suffers in silence.