The Domestic Violence Shelter

The Domestic Violence Shelter, Inc. is a private, nonprofit organization that opened its doors in 1979 as one of the first three domestic violence shelters in the state of Ohio.  The Shelter was founded by a group of concerned citizens who were moved to provide much needed assistance to victims of domestic violence who found themselves in danger and no options for safety.

The program began in an office in downtown Mansfield with an all-volunteer staff.  A few years later, a very generous community member donated a three story house.  After several renovations, the house became a 4 bedroom shelter with administrative offices on the third floor.  In 1998 The Shelter, with a grant from Richland County Foundation, purchased its current facility.

Our current property has nearly 10,000 square feet, 10 client rooms that can house up to 29 individuals comfortably.  The Shelter has moved from providing primarily emergency shelter to becoming a fully functioning agency that provides a full range of services to survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking.

In 2007 The Shelter became a dual focused program, also providing 24/7 advocacy and support to survivors of sexual assault who present in the emergency room at OhioHealth Mansfield.  Services include emergency shelter, 24 hour crisis line, intensive case management, support groups, legal advocacy, 24 hour hospital advocacy for survivors of sexual assault, community awareness and education as well as an active volunteer program.