Unity House provides victims of domestic violence and their children with a range of comprehensive services. Our Domestic Violence Program is part of a successful collaboration with the Troy Police Department, Police Court, Family Court, Probation and the Department of Social Services. With staff co-located at each of these sites, Unity House helps victims obtain orders of protection, accompanies police on calls and works with DSS to move families to safety.
Training domestic violence counselors are available 24 hours a day to provide crisis intervention, information and referrals to victims of domestic violence and stalking. There are many options and services available and Unity House can help you find the ones that are right for you and your children.
Unity House's 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline is an anonymous service which provides crisis intervention, information and referrals 24-hours a day, year-round. Collect calls accepted.
To talk with a counselor in confidence call:
Unity House has 911 cell phones that are available for victims of domestic violence.
Case Management Services works with victims of domestic violence to assess their needs and provide safety planning based on an individual's need. The level of service is diverse and intensive and may include: living skills training, obtaining and maintaining housing, utilities and employment, financial literacy, legal assistance, coordinating with the Department of Social Services, Mental Health Services, health care providers and other community resources.
Public awareness and training is available to the public and community agencies interested in becoming knowledgeable about domestic violence, stalking and related matters.
Individual and group counseling is available. Unity House also provides support groups for stalking.
Crime victims can access crime victim applications and receive assistance to complete their applications. Unity House also has Notary services available on site.
The Unity House Domestic Violence Law Project provides free legal consultation and representation to victims of domestic violence. The Law Project staff (comprised of a full-time attorney and legal assistant) is experienced in resolving the often-complicated legal challenges faced by victims of domestic violence who are seeking civil legal relief. The Law Project staff provides assistance in preparing legal documents, court accompaniment, safety planning and emotional support in addition to direct representation. Legal services include: assistance in obtaining orders of protection, custody, child support, divorce and other family court related matters.
On Wednesday evenings, residents from Albany Medical Center provide care to victims of domestic violence. The residents assess and treat adults and children receiving Unity House domestic violence and other services. They can write prescriptions and will refer people with injuries and illnesses severe enough to warrant long-term, ongoing care to other medical providers. The clinic is free to Unity House residential and non-residential consumers.
Unity House operates the only licensed Domestic Violence Shelter in Rensselaer County. The Domestic Violence Shelter is available to victims of domestic violence and their children who no longer have a safe place to stay free from violence. The 18-bed shelter provides safe refuge in a confidential location.