What You Can Do - If You Decide to Leave
Leaving an abusive relationship, even for a short time, can be difficult and dangerous. Leaving can be made easier and safer when you involve police and victim advocates and remember to bring along the following items:
- Money, your checkbook, credit cards, ATM cards
- Identification (for self and the children): birth certificates, social security cards, welfare I.D., school and work I.D., green cards, work permits, etc.
- Important papers such as your divorce papers; school records; lease, rental agreement or house deed; and insurance papers
- Order of Protection–if you have one, keep it with you at all times.
- Medical records
- Medications (prescription and over-the-counter)
- Keys for car, house and work
- Change of clothing
- Address book
- Mortgage/rent payment book
- Current unpaid bills
- Pictures or other items of sentimental value
- Children’s favorite toys, blankets or other items