Michigan’s Address Confidentiality Program Aims to Protect Survivors
For anyone who is at an increased risk of physical harm or threats – including victims of stalking, domestic violence, sexual assault, or human trafficking – the fear of being found by their perpetrator can be overwhelming and terrifying. Many survivors often decline to do important, routine things like requesting government assistance or registering to vote, out of fear that their abuser will locate them through public records.
The Address Confidentiality Program is designed to assist victims of violent crimes and individuals facing threats or physical harm by safeguarding their addresses. Participants in the program receive a newly designated address when they relocate, providing a secure alternative to their actual physical address. The program includes a free mail forwarding service. Survivors can also use the substitute address for public schools, libraries and state benefits. Through this program, survivors can take an important step towards finding safety and creating a better life for their children.
Governor Whitmer signed the Address Confidentiality Program Act in December of 2020, which legislated the attorney general’s office to begin this program within 5 years. Resilience staff and Survivor Advisory Council eagerly watched for updates on the development of this program. We had the opportunity to host Attorney General Dana Nessel at our facility before its launch to discuss the profound implications of this program with members of Resilience’s Survivor Advisory Council and key community partners. The program was launched in September 2023. We express our gratitude to AG Nessel for her unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety of survivors. The Address Confidentiality Program stands as a pivotal measure in safeguarding survivors and holding perpetrators accountable.
More information about the Address Confidentiality Program can be found at https://www.michigan.gov/ag/initiatives/address-confidentiality
Need help filing for the Address Confidentiality Program?
Resilience’s advocates stand ready 24/7 to provide help and support for domestic violence. For immediate support, please call our 24-hour Help Line at 1-800-848-5991 or stop by the Holland Program Office (411 Butternut Dr., Holland, MI 49424) Monday-Friday between 9AM-5PM for assistance with filing for the Address Confidentiality Program. Resilience staff are trained and certified by the program to provide application assistance. Support in Spanish and translation services for all languages are available.
If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.
