First Step: A Response to Domestic Violence

Founded in 1979, First Step has served and sheltered survivors of domestic and dating violence from Harrisonburg and Rockingham County. Since 1986, First Step has been located in Downtown Harrisonburg and operates a 24-hour hotline and provides a temporary shelter, as well as an array of other services to survivors and their children.

“Empowering survivors to break the cycle of violence and abuse in their lives.” First Step Mission

At the core of First Step

First Step provides free and confidential services to survivors of intimate partner or relationship violence who have experience economic, physical, sexual, psychological, emotional, and/or verbal abuse, including but not limited to controlling behavior, isolation, threats, intimidation, gaslighting, stalking, and dating violence.

All survivors are welcomed regardless of race, ethnicity, color, age, gender, disability, national origin, religion, language proficiency, citizen status, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, or gender identity or expression.

First Step affirms the right of each individual to be safe at home and to be free to make their own choices in their lives. They are dedicated to educating, empowering, and connecting individuals to resources that build on their strengths and support their choices.

First Step values partnerships and is committed to educating and inspiring our community to address the issue of violence and abuse in relationships and families.

Providing free and confidential services

All services provided by First Step are completely free of charge and kept confidential.

  • 24-hour Crisis Intervention Services 540-434-0295
  • Emergency Shelter
  • Advocacy
  • Legal Advocacy
  • Rapid Re-Housing
  • Inclusive Language Services
  • Children’s Services & Referrals
  • Domestic Violence Couseling
  • Community Outreach & Engagement

Local Statistics


Statistics graphic from FirstStepVA.com.

How you can make an impact

  • Monetary Donations
  • Wish List Donations including household cleaning supplies, personal hygiene items, food, kids items, comfort items, and gift cards
  • Volunteer

Learning more about First Step

If you are interested in learning more about First Step, whether it be for their services or to get involved, call 540-434-0295 or visit their website firststepva.com.