New Jersey Programs Receive Over $1.3 Million in Federal Grants to Assist Victims of Domestic and Sexual Violence

The Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women funds legal services and court improvements to provide crucial support to survivors in the state.

The Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) has awarded more than $1.3 million in grants to two New Jersey organizations aimed at improving legal services and justice system responses for survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking. U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger made the announcement today.

The Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) and U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced the award recipients—180 Turning Lives Around Inc. and the Essex County Family Justice Center Inc.

Two programs in New Jersey will receive a total of more than $1.3 million in grants. The grants are part of OVW's Legal Assistance for Victims (LAV) Program and the Justice for Families (JFF) Program.

• OVW awarded $750,000 to 180 Turning Lives Around Inc. under the LAV Program.
• OVW awarded $599,512 to the Essex County Family Justice Center Inc. under the JFF Program.

The grants are designated for organizations within the state of New Jersey, aimed at enhancing the state's ability to provide specialized legal services and improved court coordination for survivors.

There is a pressing need to provide legal support for survivors of various forms of violence. These services include securing restraining orders and navigating complex family law matters, which are vital for survivor safety.

These grants will support trauma-informed training, enhance court-related programs, and provide specialized legal assistance to victims, including help with securing protective orders.

U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger emphasized the importance of these funds, stating, “The programs this money will help fund will provide needed legal support to ensure justice and safety for survivors.”

OVW Director Rosemarie Hidalgo also highlighted the significance of the grants, noting that they serve as a “powerful multi-pronged strategy to transform the justice system's approach to supporting families affected by violence.”

The U.S. Attorney’s Office in New Jersey has consistently shown commitment to combating sexual misconduct. Among its many efforts, it has conducted community outreach that led to a landmark $4.5 million settlement against a landlord who demanded sexual acts from tenants under threat of eviction.

The substantial federal funding aims to fill a crucial gap in legal services and justice system coordination for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault in New Jersey. These grants represent a concerted effort by federal and state authorities to ensure survivors do not just navigate the legal complexities but genuinely find a path to justice and safety.