Our Mission

Women Aware is committed to a vision of a just society. Our mission is to end domestic violence in the lives of men, women, and children and to change societal attitudes and institutions that promote and condone violence, through public policy advocacy, education and programs and services that promote lives free of abuse. We are devoted to empowering women to live free from violence. We encourage victims to look clearly at their present situation and to make the changes necessary to build a strong foundation for healing, self-confidence and independence.

Message from the Executive Director Phyllis Adams

This year marks our 30th year of service and I am proud to report that we remain a strong and viable force in the fight to end domestic violence.

This crisis in our economy made 2009 a challenging year for non-profit organizations. Women Aware was not exempt. We experienced cuts in funding along with dramatic increases in demand for services. We have weathered the storm and emerged stronger than ever. We have diversified our funding base and expanded the vital programs and services we provide in the process.

In 2009, Women Aware helped over 6,000 women and children in Middlesex County to move beyond abuse. In collaboration with the Puerto Rican Action Board (PRAB) and with funding from the NJ Division on Women, we launched the “Esperanza Domestic Violence Project” to raise awareness about domestic violence in the Latina community. We began a pastoral counseling program for residents of the safe house and a homework club to provide educational support and assistance for the children in the PALS program. And, with the generous support of Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, we have expanded the role of the Visiting Nurses services to include health education and medical screening for families in shelter. We have also made some infrastructure improvements bringing the 3rd floor of our administrative offices up to code and making the safety and security improvements needed for the PALS program. So on behalf of all victims of domestic violence and the advocates who assist them, please accept my heartfelt thanks for your support - yesterday, today and tomorrow.

All of our services are free and confidential.