In 1979, Alamance County had four homicide/suicide cases to investigate. Members of the community were both outraged and concerned about the increasing level of violence and it s repercussions. Alamance County had a 24-hour crisis line but no agency to turn to for more assistance. For further prevention, Family Abuse Services was formed from funds from Alamance County United Way in 1983.

Due to community awareness and resources needed, Family Abuse Services opened an emergency shelter in 1985. A need for a crisis day care was addressed and opened in 1992 with assistance from the Bryan Family Foundation. Thanks to the City of Burlington, and NC Housing Finance Agency, Family Abuse Services opened transitional housing in 1997. Family Abuse Services continues to serve its mission to this day.