Domestic Violence
Introduction to our Domestic Violence Program
The effects of sexual assault can potentially disrupt someone’s ability to live their life. Common experiences include emotional distress, inability to work, losing a safe place, and lack of support. The Ruth’s Cottage Sexual Assault Program is here to support survivors and help them move forward in recovery, while providing several resources.
“How do I know if what I am experiencing is Abuse?”
Responding “yes” to any of the questions below may indicate that you have previously or are currently experiencing an abusive relationship. Please note that everyone’s experience may vary. The following are just examples and may not reflect your individual situation.
Emotional Abuse
Does the person do any of the following?
- Consistently try to repress, degrade, humiliate you, or put you down?
- Try to force you to limit your contact with friends and family.
- Attempt to control what you can or can't do?
- Threaten to harm you, your children, pets, or people you care about?
Verbal Abuse
Does the person do any of the following?
- Frequently yell, scream, or shout at you.
- Frequently call you rude, cruel, or demeaning names?
- Make fun of your appearance, and/or intentionally humiliate you in public?
- Frequently cuss/curse/swear at you and give non-constructive remarks.
Physical Abuse
Does the person do any of the following?
- Hit you, smack you, forcefully grab you, or hold you against your will?
- Hit you with his/her fist(s), with a hard object, kick you, violently push you, aggressively shake you, or done anything similar.
- Threaten your life, try to strangle you, show you a weapon (e.g. gun, knife, etc.) or any other similar act?
Financial Abuse
Does the person do any of the following?
- Steal money from you or your family?
- Force you to give him/her access to your bank account to make transactions without your input?
- Put you on an “allowance” even if you object to this?
- Make you feel as though you don’t have a right to know any details about money or household resources?
About Us
Learn More About Where We Stand
Tifton Judicial Circuit Shelter Inc (dba Ruth’s Cottage & The Patticake House) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization established in 2002, is dedicated to ending domestic and sexual violence, as well as child abuse, through a comprehensive and collaborative approach. We provide vital services including domestic violence prevention, child advocacy, and sexual assault support, working tirelessly within our community to change attitudes and empower survivors.
Our Domestic Violence Shelter Team

Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I have to leave my pet behind?
Ruth’s Cottage is a pet friendly facility. Pets are welcome!
Who has access to my personal Information?
Confidentiality is our main priority. Our shelter is a safe space for all Domestic Violence Survivors.
Does the shelter only accept women?
No, we accept any survivors of domestic violence.
How long can I stay in the shelter?
Ruth’s cottage is an emergency shelter. Stay is usually from 4 to 6 weeks depending on circumstances.
Do I still meet criteria to receive domestic violence services if I am disabled?
Yes, Ruth’s cottage has a handicap space for victims that need it.
Do I have to be from the state of Georgia to be accept it into the shelter?
No, we help survivors from all different states.
Our Local 24/7 Hotline: 229-388-1541
Whether you have a question regarding our facility, or you need to call about a domestic violence crisis, sexual assault situation or confidential child abuse report, we are here for you!
01
Domestic Violence Hotline
1-800-334-2836
02
Sexual Assault Hotline
1-800-656-4673
03
Confidential Child Abuse Report
1-855-422-4453
Please Call 911 in Emergency Situations


