180 Turning Lives Around has announced the opening of its Family Justice Center at the Monmouth County Court House, Court Street, Freehold Borough. A ribbon cutting ceremony is scheduled for Oct. 26.
The Family Justice Center is a collaborative effort between 180 and numerous members of the Monmouth County community – law enforcement agencies, lawyers, counselors and child abuse specialists – to provide victims of domestic violence and their families with support, legal assistance and emotional services all in one safe place, according to a press release.
The Monmouth County Board of Freeholders unanimously approved an agreement to provide the space for the center at no cost, according to the press release.
180 Turning Lives Around received seed funding through a grant from Impact 100 Jersey Coast, an organization which selected 180 from among several nonprofit organizations. The $145,000 grant was raised by 145 local women, each of whom pledged $1,000 and decided on the recipient agency, according to the press release.
“Family justice centers are a proven model that save lives and improve outcomes for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault,” said Anna Diaz-White, 180’s executive director. “We are grateful to Impact 100 Jersey Coast and the Monmouth County freeholders for providing the seed funding and space to coordinate and begin this wonderful, life-saving collaboration for our county.”
Victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse and human trafficking can go to a Family Justice Center and obtain most of the services they need, the same day. This will be the fourth Family Justice Center in New Jersey. The others are in Essex, Morris and Union counties, according to the press release.
“We are thrilled to open our doors during National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, which recognizes and unites individuals and organizations working on domestic violence issues and raises awareness for those issues,” Diaz-White said.
