WARREN COUNTY, NJ – The Warren County Board of County Commissioners recognized April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month and awarded the proclamation to the Domestic Abuse and Sexual Awareness Crisis Center of Warren County for their efforts and dedication to the awareness and prevention of sexual abuse.
“We are very lucky to have DASACC and there are no better people to handle these needs than Jill’s team,” said Commissioner Director Jason J Sarnoski in reference to Jill Zinckgraf, Executive Director of DASACC.
Sexual assault comes in second to murder as a violent crime and is recognized by the FBI as the most unreported crime. It affects men and women of every race, religion, age, and income level.
“Sexual assault happens in many ways to people of all ages and genders, and every incident is one incident too many,” Commissioner Deputy Director Lori Ciesla said.
DASACC of Warren County provided services to more than 1500 victims in 2021 up from 100 in 2020 as people become more aware of this crisis.
“I couldn’t have done the work without your support and guidance,” said Zinckgraf in regards to a fire that broke out in their housing sector. She was beyond grateful for the support of the community and commissioners.
Sexual assault is considered a national health crisis because of the impact on family, friends and the community and can leave survivors with lasting physical, mental and emotional effects.
“Every community in Warren County is impacted by domestic abuse and sexual assault,” said Commissioner James R. Kern III. Kern went on to say how impressed he is with the work of the DASACC team and their continued support for victims, whose needs range from shelter to community programs.
“This group represents the best of Warren County and will always have support of this board,” Kern said.
The leadership and commitment in preventing sexual assault comes from resources, education, community awareness and involvement. Residents are urged to work together to raise awareness and offer support.
“We must continue to bring awareness to this issue to help support those who have been victims, and help prevent future incidents,” Ciesla said.
