Morris County recognizes Domestic Violence Awareness Month, honors JBWS for supporting survivors
MORRISTOWN, N.J. (Morris County) — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners recognized October 2025 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month during its public meeting Tuesday afternoon, presenting a framed proclamation to JBWS President and CEO Diane Williams in honor of the organization’s long-standing commitment to supporting survivors.
“Domestic violence is not just a private matter. It impacts families, workplaces and entire communities, leaving emotional and physical scars that can last for generations,” said Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen, who led the presentation. “Here in Morris County, we are proud to partner with JBWS, an agency that has been providing safety, support and solutions for survivors of abuse since 1976.”
During the meeting, Williams shared JBWS’s impact over the past year, noting that in 2024, the organization’s Crisis Response Team conducted 1,145 interventions, the Morris Family Justice Center provided legal advocacy to 1,332 people, and 189 adults and children received emergency shelter at Arbour House.
“The biggest problem with domestic violence is the silence that comes along with it. No one talks about it, which makes it very difficult for survivors to reach out for help. Building awareness is an important part of a solution to this issue,” said Williams.
Founded in 1976, JBWS provides comprehensive services for survivors of domestic violence, including counseling, transitional living, housing assistance, school-based prevention programs, and support through the Morris Family Justice Center. Established in 2016 through a collaboration of partner agencies, the center offers counseling, legal advocacy, and children’s services for victims of abuse. It is one of only two family justice centers in New Jersey and is recognized by the U.S. Department of Justice as a best-practice model.
JBWS will mark its 50th anniversary in 2026, celebrating five decades of helping survivors and strengthening the Morris County community.
Anyone seeking support or resources related to domestic or partner abuse can contact the 24-Hour Helpline & Referral at 1-877-R-U-ABUSED (1-877-782-2873) or reach The National Domestic Violence Hotline by text (LOVEIS to 22522) or online chat. More information about the Morris Family Justice Center is available at morrisfjc.org.
