Our Partners
Community Resources
Laura’s Light works alongside many excellent, independent organizations providing critical services to survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence in the Allegheny County region. If you or someone you know needs assistance, the resources below can help connect you with appropriate support—from crisis response through legal resolution.
These organizations operate separately from Laura’s Light; listings are provided for information only. Please contact each organization directly to confirm services, eligibility, and availability.
PAAR (Pittsburgh Action Against Rape)
Established in 1972, PAAR is one of the oldest rape crisis centers in the United States. PAAR provides a wide range of services to sexual assault survivors, including counseling, a 24-hour crisis hotline, legal and medical advocacy, and prevention education. The organization works with local schools and communities to raise awareness and reduce incidents of sexual violence.
Website: https://www.paar.net
Women’s Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh
Founded in 1974, Women’s Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh (WC&S) provides comprehensive services for women and children experiencing domestic violence. The organization offers emergency shelter, legal advocacy, and a 24-hour hotline, as well as counseling and support services to help survivors rebuild their lives. WC&S also conducts community education to prevent domestic violence.
Website: https://www.wcspittsburgh.org
Alle-Kiski Area HOPE Center
Serving the northern suburbs of Pittsburgh, the Alle-Kiski Area HOPE Center provides emergency shelter, counseling, and legal advocacy for victims of domestic violence. The organization offers a 24-hour hotline, community education, and support groups. They work closely with local law enforcement and healthcare providers to ensure a supportive network for survivors.
Website: https://www.akhopecenter.org
The Blackburn Center
Located in Greensburg, PA, but active in Pittsburgh, Blackburn Center offers services to individuals impacted by domestic and sexual violence, human trafficking, and other forms of abuse. Their services include a 24-hour hotline, emergency shelter, legal support (Blackburn Center Legal), and educational programs aimed at violence prevention.
Website: https://www.blackburncenter.org
A Child's Place PA
Website: https://achildsplacepa.org
HAVIN (Helping All Victims in Need)
Serving Armstrong County with outreach to the Pittsburgh area, HAVIN provides emergency shelter, crisis counseling, advocacy, and prevention education for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Their services focus on empowering survivors and building supportive community networks.
Website: https://www.havinpa.org
YWCA Greater Pittsburgh
About: YWCA Greater Pittsburgh offers support for domestic violence and sexual assault survivors as part of its larger mission to eliminate racism and empower women. Their programs include housing assistance, crisis counseling, and financial empowerment services to help survivors achieve independence and stability. The YWCA also provides community education to promote safe and healthy relationships.
Website: https://www.ywcapgh.org
Allegheny County Department of Human Services (DHS)
The Allegheny County DHS offers resources and services to support domestic violence and sexual assault survivors, often partnering with local organizations. DHS provides access to emergency shelters, legal assistance, and financial support for eligible survivors. Their services also include the Safe Haven program, which offers supervised visitation for families affected by domestic violence.
Website: https://www.alleghenycounty.us/Services/Human-Services-DHS
Domestic Violence Services of Southwestern Pennsylvania (DVSSP)
DVSSP serves Washington, Greene, and Fayette Counties but collaborates with organizations in the greater Pittsburgh area. Services include emergency shelter, legal advocacy, children’s programming, and a 24-hour hotline. DVSSP also provides education and training for communities to prevent domestic violence.
Website: https://www.peacefromdv.org
Neighborhood Legal Services
One component of Neighborhood Legal Services provides free or access to reduced cost legal assistance to children and families dealing with issues surrounding custody, victims of crimes and domestic violence and divorce. Services cover issues such as protective orders, custody, and housing stability.
Website: https://www.nlsa.us
Family Resources of Pennsylvania
Family Resources is a Pittsburgh-based organization that provides counseling and support to victims of family violence, including domestic and sexual abuse. They focus on preventing and treating trauma in children and families, offering trauma-informed therapy and support programs to create safe environments for children and adults alike.
Website: https://www.familyresources.org
Bethlehem Haven
Bethlehem Haven serves Pittsburgh’s women by providing shelter, medical services, and counseling for those affected by homelessness, often due to domestic violence. In addition to emergency shelter, Bethlehem Haven offers medical care, mental health services, and transitional housing to help women regain stability and independence.
Website: https://www.bethlehemhaven.org
Crisis Center North
Crisis Center North provides advocacy, education, and resources for domestic violence victims in the northern and western parts of Allegheny County. Services include a 24-hour crisis hotline, counseling, legal and medical advocacy, and community outreach. They work to empower survivors and educate communities to prevent domestic violence.
Website: https://www.crisiscenternorth.org
If you know of an organization that should be included on this page—or if you represent one providing related services—please reach out to us at admin@lauraslight.org. We regularly update this list to ensure survivors and their families can find the most comprehensive support available.
Laura’s Light does not endorse or guarantee any organization listed. All organizations operate independently and are responsible for their own services and practices.