(WHITE TWP., September 12, 2007) – Recognizing that the problems of domestic violence transcend all ethnic, racial and social barriers, the Warren County Board of Chosen Freeholders proclaimed October 2007 to be Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Jenna Richline and Pat Testa of the Domestic Abuse and Sexual Assault Crisis Center of Warren County - formerly the Domestic Abuse and Rape Crisis Center – were presented with the proclamation at the board’s September 12 meeting.
“We’d like to accept this on behalf of the Domestic Abuse and Sexual Assault Crisis Center and all victims and survivors of domestic violence,” said Richline, one of the center’s legal advocates.
“The work that the Domestic Abuse and Sexual Assault Crisis Center does is outstanding so I’m pleased to support the proclamation,” said Freeholder Richard D. Gardner.
“Domestic violence not only affects the individuals; it has tremendous negative impact on the family, and it’s very far-reaching in our society. I’m actually ashamed that we have so much here in Warren County,” said Freeholder Director Everett A. Chamberlain.
“To have a facility like we are lucky enough to have in Warren County, to help people that have been battered and trapped in situations they can’t get out of, is incredibly important,” said Freeholder John DiMaio.
In an effort to increase awareness, all members of the community are encouraged to attend a 15th Annual Candle Light Vigil to honor and commemorate the past year’s victims and survivors of domestic violence. A public reading of the proclamation will take place during the event, being held at Centenary College on Wednesday, October 3. The program will begin at 7 p.m. in the Front Parlours of the Edward W. Seay Administration Building before proceeding outdoors for the candlelight portion of the ceremony. |
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Receiving the proclamation declaring October 2007 to be Domestic Violence Awareness Month were Jenna Richline and Pat Testa of the Domestic Abuse and Sexual Assault Crisis Center of Warren County, who are pictured with Freeholder John DiMaio, Freeholder Director Everett A. Chamberlain and Freeholder Richard D. Gardner.
The Domestic Abuse and Sexual Assault Crisis Center of Warren County provides numerous services to victims of domestic violence, including shelter, legal advocacy, and outreach. Spanish-speaking counselors are available, as well as one who speaks Russian. The center operates a 24-hour hotline and welcomes volunteers. For more information, visit the center’s site at www.darccwc.org.
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