The program is a Federal response to increased national awareness of the problem of domestic violence. Studies indicate that the problem affects at least 20 percent of all couples. Despite such impact, nearly 55 percent of all incidents go unreported. LEAA's efforts began in 1978 under the auspices of the Victim-Witness Assistance Program. Today, direct services are provided to families through 23 projects, including information and referral services, legal advocacy, crisis intervention, counseling, child care, transportation, and mediation. In delivering these services, a majority of projects use staff of 6 to 10 individuals, most of whom are paid by LEAA. Of initial project contacts, 13 percent are reported over the telephone as emergencies; clients are overwhelmingly female, predominantly white, and most are not employed outside the home. In 83 percent of the cases, the precipitating incident occurs in the victim's home and involves the spouse or partner. The most frequently requested services were shelter, general information, and legal referral. Severity of injury is the strongest predictor of help-seeking behavior. This suggests the importance of outreach via hospitals and other medical service providers. Approximately 75 tables and over 100 reference notes are included. (Author summary modified).