The Domestic Abuse and Sexual Assault Crisis Center of Warren County (DASACC) received a $25,000 grant from the New Jersey Pandemic Relief Fund (NJPRF) to address the critical needs of survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault during the COVID-19 pandemic.

During these challenging times, DASACC’s mission and services are more important than ever. There has been a significant increase in domestic violence; a situation expected and feared as a result of the shelter-at-home orders that were in place.

These grant funds are critical for DASACC to continue to provide the highest level of service to meet client needs.

“We have seen a dramatic increase in the need for services including a 188% increase in survivors seeking shelter, an 118% increase in shelter stays, and an 86% increase in counseling services,” said DASACC Executive Director, Jill Zinckgraf. “These numbers tell a story about the impact that the current pandemic has had on our community.”

NJPRF’s most recent grants totaled $16 million and went toward further supporting urgent needs across the State of New Jersey. This support included $10 million in grants to 139 dedicated non-profits doing exemplary pandemic relief work at the state and local level, as well as an additional $6 million in direct cash assistance targeting more than 18,000 of New Jersey’s most vulnerable individuals and families.

The mission of DASACC is to help, serve, and advocate for those impacted by interpersonal violence, to be proactive regarding its prevention, and to create positive change. DASACC provides services to all who identify themselves as victims of domestic violence and/or sexual assault.

If you or someone you know is being hurt, DASACC can help. Call the 24/7 hotline at 908-453-4181.