If You Suspect a Friend is in an Abusive Relationship

When you approach them: Choose a confidential setting away from interruptions. Begin by gently sharing what you have observed and listen without judgment. Encourage them to seek support and refer them to the Family Justice Center.

If they come to you for help: Be supportive and listen carefully. Believe what they tell you and give them time to open up. Avoid making victim-blaming statements and ask how you can help rather than telling them what to do.

Helping them create an emergency response plan: You can assist by keeping a change of clothing and medications at your house. Arrange a signal with neighbors to alert the police, such as flickering an outside light, and share a code word that they can use to alert you to call the authorities. Encourage them to keep a journal of abuse incidents and offer to safeguard photos of injuries for possible future charges. Throughout this process, continue to refer them to the Family Justice Center for additional support.

Upcoming Events

Soaper Scary Volunteer Event

Tuesday, October 29 | 5:30–7:30 PM

MoCo Pride Center (4805 Edgemoor Ln, Bethesda, MD)

Join us for a hands-on evening of service as we wrap soap and assemble personal care packages for families affected by abuse. As DVAM comes to a close, let’s finish the month by doing something meaningful together.

Monday, December 2 | 6:30-8:30 PM

Blooming Blossoms (15430 New Hampshire Ave, Silver Spring, MD)

Join us for an uplifting flower-arranging class with Blooming Blossoms! Create your own floral masterpiece to take home while supporting families in our community. This event is a beautiful way to continue the spirit of DVAM into the holiday season.

This holiday season, shine a light for those affected by domestic violence. A Light To Remember at Brookside Gardens features a tree illuminated with purple lights, honoring victims, celebrating survivors, and recognizing those making a difference. Each light tells a story, and your participation supports programs and services for victims and children through the Montgomery County Family Justice Center Foundation. Dedicate a light and be part of this meaningful tradition—your tribute will be recorded in Stories of Light online throughout the season.

Our Mission

Our mission is to help end domestic violence and abuse of all ages.  We do this by raising awareness through education and providing resources and programs that assist victims of abuse.

By working with community partners to harness our combined resources, we provide support to victims of domestic violence and their children; and promote healthy dating relationships among teenagers. 

We are dedicated to ending violence and abuse of all ages and promoting healing after abuse.

Celebrating 15 Years of Service

Information on Sponsoring a Donation Drive for MCFJC

Or make a direct donation to the MCFJC Foundation.

Our Programs

The Montgomery County Family Justice Center Foundation (MCFJC Foundation) raises awareness and provides support to victims of power-based violence, including domestic violence, elder abuse, and teen dating violence. We strengthen services at the Family Justice Center (FJC) by removing barriers that prevent victims from accessing assistance and ensuring their safety. Our work promotes healing and fosters healthy relationships for victims and their children.

The Montgomery County Family Violence Awareness & Prevention Campaign

Helping Victims of Domestice Violence During COVID-19

Children & Abuse Information

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