ACA American Citizens Abroad

The American Domestic Violence Crisis Line (free and worldwide non-profit organization) serves as a life-line to Americans exposed to domestic violence anywhere in the world. They have  a good working relationship with the State Department Overseas Citizens Services, but, being both private and specialized, it is positioned to offer more specific and extensive help.

Their US hotline number (866) 879-6636 (866-USWOMEN) is internationally toll free, so victims can contact the Crisis Line directly 24/5 from anywhere, even a pay phone. Trained volunteers offer advocacy, safety planning, case management and referrals to resources. "It is not unusual for us to work with someone anywhere from several days to several years," says founder Paula Lucas. Ms Lucas, herself an abuse survivor, devotes her energies to helping others escape from similar plights.
 
In partnership with Virgin Atlantic Airlines, the American Domestic Violence Crisis Line can provide danger-to-safety transportation, including airline flights back to the USA, or help with the repayment of repatriation loans, depending upon circumstances and availability of funds. The group helps to relocate 10–12 families back to the USA per year.
 
The group provides funds for emergency housing to keep victims safe (either in the foreign country or back in the USA), for battered mothers to be able to file for custody of their children (either in the foreign country or back in the USA), and free legal consultations with pro-bono international family law attorneys who specialize in Hague Convention and jurisdictional issues.
 
For full information see: www.866uswomen.org . To access the above-listed crisis line number from overseas, contact your regional AT&T operator and ask to be connected.