Some states and communities do have their own local hotlines, but there is currently no comprehensive system for linking domestic violence victims across the country to the help they need. The Texas Council was chosen in accordance with the Department of Health and Human Services' competitive review process. The applicants were required to meet stringent criteria and submit their proposals for review by a panel of experts. The Texas Council is a statewide association that supports battered women's shelters and other domestic violence programs in the state and has been helping domestic violence victims for the past 18 years. The advocate has access to a national database that contains the most current information on emergency shelters, legal advocacy, social services, and other programs in communities across the country.
Help is offered in English or Spanish and to the hearing impaired.
Translators are also available in other languages. The national hotline anticipates that it will receive about 10,000 calls a month. The hotline has 40 lines that will be taking calls. This funding is included under the current Continuing Resolution, although many other domestic violence programs are being shortchanged. Most VAWA programs are administered by the Justice Department and the Department of Health and Human Services.