Pallone Announces $1 Million to Support Survivors of Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault in Middlesex County

LONG BRANCH, NJ - Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today announced $1 million for Women Aware Inc. in New Brunswick to strengthen services for survivors of domestic violence in Middlesex County.

"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. "At a time when many victim service organizations are facing devastating funding uncertainty, this investment is especially important. Survivors deserve stability, safety, and access to care without wondering whether support programs will disappear. I will keep fighting to ensure New Jersey organizations have the federal resources they need to continue this work."

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

Last year, Pallone led a push urging 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 delays threatened critical services statewide.

Women Aware 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 and regain stability. Pallone has continued pressing the federal government to release delayed victim assistance funding to prevent layoffs, service reductions, and closures at organizations across New Jersey.

"This grant strengthens the cornerstone of safety in our community by allowing us to provide critical training for law enforcement and medical personnel. 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," said Women Aware CEO Phyllis Yonta, MSW, MA, DVS.

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