First step: a response to domestic violence's mission is empowering survivors to break the cycle of violence and abuse in their lives. the vision of first step: a response to domestic violence is a community free of abuse. first step provides free and confidential services to survivors of domestic violence and their children. first step's services include: 24-hour crisis hotline, planning for safety, emergency transportation and shelter, legal advocacy and court accompaniment, financial empowerment, housing advocacy, rental assistance, information and referral, support group, individual counseling, and children's support and advocacy.