All of SPARCC’s programs and services are confidential and provided free of charge. For more information on any of the services below, or to schedule an appointment for services, call the SPARCC Hotline at 941-365-1976.

Emergency Shelter
Emergency shelter for victims of domestic violence and their dependents is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

24-Hour Hotline
SPARCC’s crisis hotline is answered 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to provide immediate response to the needs of callers.

Crisis Counseling
SPARCC offers crisis intervention services by telephone and face-to-face in the shelter and outreach offices.

Safety Planning
Planning assistance for ongoing safety is provided to clients at initial contact on the Hotline and in individual face-to-face counseling sessions. For more information on safety planning, or to download a printable safety plan, click here.

Children's Services
The SPARCC Children’s Program provides services for children who have witnessed and/or experienced domestic violence. Click here to download our Children’s Services Brochure.

Transitional Housing
SPARCC provides transitional housing to assist those fleeing violent homes to secure permanent housing and to integrate into the community. Program participants are eligible to receive assistance and referral services while pursuing educational and vocational goals that would enable them to become financially self-sufficient.

Hospital Advocacy
Also referred to as the crisis team, Hospital Advocacy is available to recent sexual assault survivors when they go to hospital emergency rooms for treatment. SPARCC staff and trained volunteer advocates meet with survivors at the emergency room to offer support, discuss procedures, answer questions and advocate for the rights and well being of the survivor. Hospital advocates provide information about SPARCC and other community resources available to sexual assault survivors.

Court Advocacy
SPARCC staff and trained volunteers provide support and encouragement during legal proceedings and guide survivors through the protective order process. For questions about a protective order for yourself, or are if you are concerned about your safety, please call 941-365-1976. For more information about the legal process in domestic violence cases, click here.

Case/Service Management
SPARCC program participants are assessed to develop a service plan. Participants are referred to, and assisted in their interactions with, additional social service agencies, the courts, hospitals, law enforcement, housing authorities, mental health agencies, job readiness programs, and others. Participants are also eligible for free clothing and other items from SPARCC’s Treasure Chest, as needed.

Information and Referral
Information and referral to resources appropriate to individual needs are provided.

Community and Education
Community education presentations are provided to schools, churches, clubs, businesses and other organizations by staff and trained volunteers. SPARCC also provides violence prevention education in elementary, middle, and high schools, and at colleges and universities.

Professional Training
SPARCC is the leading provider of continuing education to area law enforcement, health care personnel and other professionals on the subjects of domestic and sexual violence.

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