If you have experienced sexual violence and would like to speak with someone about it, you can call the 24-hour Statewide Hotline at 1-800-601-7200 or visit our Find Help page to contact your local sexual violence program. NJCASA’s sexual violence programs are in each of New Jersey’s 21 counties. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911.
Our 2025 PSA discusses the harms of federal funding cuts for sexual violence services in NJ. In 2026, significant cuts (over 9M in funding), challenges, and further threats to funding continue to impact services.
Nearly 3 million survivors of sexual violence in New Jersey are facing a crisis. Due to cuts in federal funding, rape crisis centers across New Jersey (NJ) will struggle to meet the overwhelming demand for care.
LAST YEAR: Federal funding instability increased pressure on New Jersey’s sexual violence services system, creating unprecedented strain for programs and survivors alike.
THIS YEAR: The system is facing an estimated $9 million in federal funding losses, including a 43% cut in VOCA funding ($4.3 million in sexual violence services) and an additional $4.8 million loss in ARP funding. These cuts are already having a direct impact—waitlists are currently impacting 11 counties (nearly half), staff attrition exceeds 50%, and service capacity is impacted statewide.
THE FUTURE: A one-time $5.9 million legislative add-on in the FY26 state budget provided temporary relief—but has been removed in the Governor’s proposed budget. One-time funding cannot address ongoing and growing challenges or sustain a statewide system of free, confidential, highly specialized services for survivors of sexual violence. Without immediate and sustained investment, survivors will face increased barriers to accessing critical care and support, compromising their safety and healing.
During this crisis and always, NJCASA is committed to:
Your support is crucial to ensure that survivors can access the support they need, when they need it, and to prevent further strain on our programs.
Share this message with friends, family, and your community to build awareness of the funding crisis and the importance of sexual violence service providers in every county. And join us for upcoming events.
Sign up for updates from NJCASA and stay connected to advocacy efforts. Join our mailing list and follow us on social media.
Your contribution goes toward supporting survivors, enhancing sexual violence service provision, and advancing our shared vision of a world free from sexual violence. Donate today!
Your voice is powerful, and your call to your legislators can make a difference. Here’s how you can effectively communicate why funding for sexual violence services is essential.
Step 1: Introduce Yourself
“Hello, my name is [Your Name], and I’m calling from [City/Town] as a concerned [resident/community member].”
Step 2: State the Purpose of Your Call
“I am calling to urge [Legislator’s Name] to preserve federal funding that supports sexual violence services in NJ and other states.”
Step 3: Explain Why This Funding is Critical
“A one-time $5.9 million legislative add-on in the FY26 state budget provided temporary relief—but has been removed in the Governor’s proposed budget. One-time funding cannot address ongoing and growing challenges or sustain a statewide system of free, confidential, highly specialized services for survivors of sexual violence. Without immediate and sustained investment, survivors will face increased barriers to accessing critical care and support, compromising their safety and healing.”
Step 4: Make a Clear Request
“Can I count on [Legislator’s Name] to prioritize this important issue”
Step 5: Thank Them
“Thank you for your time and commitment to survivors in New Jersey and across the country.”
and concise. Legislators are busy, but they want to hear from constituents.
about the action you’re requesting and the impact it will have.
by email or on social media to reinforce your message and stay engaged.