TRENTON—The New Jersey Department of Human Services’
Division of Youth and Family Services (DYFS) has named the New
Jersey Association on Correction as the lead provider of domestic
violence services for Camden County.
"Domestic violence harms so many families,"
said Human Services Commissioner Gwendolyn L. Harris. "Through
this new partnership, we can ensure victims in Camden County have
a safe place to go while receiving the help and support they need."
The New Jersey Association on Correction replaces
the YWCA of Camden County and Vicinity. The YWCA announced earlier
this year it was stepping down as the lead provider after 20 years.
Through a formal bidding process, the New Jersey
Association on Correction was awarded the $551,673 annual contract.
The organization has also been the lead domestic violence provider
in Passaic County since 1986.
According to Commissioner Harris, DYFS provides
over $10.7 million each year for domestic violence services including
24-hour hotline, emergency response and shelter entry; legal,
financial and housing advocacy;
counseling for victims, children and abusers; community
networking; community education and awareness; and children’s
services.
In New Jersey, there are over 77,000 domestic violence
offenses reported each year. According to the New Jersey State
Police’s Uniform Crime Report, Camden is the county with the highest
reported incidence of domestic violence with 7,400 offenses each
year.
Each year DYFS-funded domestic violence programs
provide 3,700 women and children with shelter and 13,000 receive
counseling and support services. Approximately 21,000 domestic
violence victims also receive
legal advocacy services with DYFS funded programs
responding to over 123,000 hotline calls for help.
If you or someone you know needs help, call the
New Jersey Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-572-7233.
