Middlesex Co. Domestic Violence Nonprofit Secures $1M In Grant

MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NJ - Women Aware Inc. in Middlesex County will receive $1 million in federal funding to expand services for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault in Middlesex County, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) said Thursday.

The grant will support the development and expansion of the Middlesex County Family Justice Center, based in New Brunswick, direct services for survivors, and specialized training for law enforcement, prosecutors, and emergency room personnel responding to domestic violence and strangulation cases.

"Women Aware provides lifesaving support for survivors at some of the most difficult moments in their lives, and this funding will help strengthen those services in Middlesex County," Pallone said in a statement. "At a time when many victim service organizations are facing devastating funding uncertainty, this investment is especially important."

Women Aware CEO Phyllis Yonta, MSW, MA, DVS, said the grant would help ensure that survivors receive a coordinated, trauma-informed response across emergency, legal and social service systems.

"This grant strengthens the cornerstone of safety in our community by allowing us to provide critical training for law enforcement and medical personnel," Yonta said. "It ensures that when a survivor reaches out, whether in an emergency room or a courtroom, they are met with a response that is trauma-informed, expert, and rooted in justice."

The announcement comes amid ongoing concerns about federal funding for victim services organizations nationwide. Women Aware had previously warned that reductions in federal Victims of Crime Act funding could force cuts to residential and non-residential programs that help survivors rebuild their lives.

Last year, Pallone urged the Trump administration to release nearly $10 million in aid for New Jersey programs supporting survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse and human trafficking after funding delays threatened services statewide. Pallone said he would continue pressing the federal government to release delayed victim assistance funding.

Women Aware serves Middlesex County residents experiencing domestic violence and sexual assault. More information is available at womenaware.net.

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