Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is a pattern of behavior used by one person to maintain power or control over another. This can include threats, physical abuse, sexual abuse, or emotional abuse. Domestic violence can follow a particular pattern, such as the cycle of violence, or may be random acts. The cycle of violence includes three phases: a tension building phase, an acute violent incident, and a honeymoon phase. During the tension building phase, the abuser frequently argues with the victim and becomes easily frustrated. Abuse occurs during the acute violent incident phase and is followed by a honeymoon phase. During the honeymoon phase, the abuser apologizes for their actions and promises that they’ll never do it again. This phase often gives the victim hope that the abuser will change their behavior.

Domestic violence crosses all social, economic, racial, cultural and religious boundaries. If you or a loved one are a victim of domestic violence and need help, please contact Lowell Police Communications at 978-937-3200 for emergencies please call 911.

Services for Victims and Families

Alternative House is a nonprofit organization that provides a variety of services for domestic violence victims including emergency shelter, legal advocacy and support, community education and training, and access to a confidential crisis hotline.

• 24 hour crisis hotline: 1-888-291-6228

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233

The Center for Hope and Healing, Inc. (21 George Street, Suite 400, Lowell, MA) is a sexual assault program that provides services including individual counseling, legal advocacy, general advocacy, and a 24/7 hotline for survivors.

• Phone: 978-452-7721
• 24 hour line: 800-542-5212

Wayside Youth & Family Support Network is a nonprofit organization that provides family support services and offers in-home therapy. For more information on Wayside in Lowell, please click here.

To view a list of resources for victims of domestic violence in Spanish, Khmer, Arabic, Swahili, or Portuguese, please visit the links listed below.

Resources for Victims (Spanish)
Resources for Victims (Khmer)
Resources for Victims (Arabic)
Resources for Victims (Swahili)
Resources for Victims (Portuguese)