Lawmakers from New Jersey’s Legislative District 29 have restored $575,000 in funding for Wynona’s House Child Advocacy Center, an Essex County nonprofit that supports children and families impacted by abuse and neglect. The funding, which had previously been cut from the state budget, was presented to the organization last week.
Robert Crocker, executive director of Wynona’s House, expressed appreciation for the efforts of Senator Teresa Ruiz, Assemblywoman Eliana Pintor Marin, and Assemblywoman Shanique Speight in securing the funds for fiscal year 2026. “Thanks to the commitment of our District 29 legislators, vulnerable children and their families will continue to receive the comprehensive services they need to recover, rebuild, and thrive,” Crocker said. “Their advocacy helped ensure that Wynona’s House can continue to provide a safe space where children are heard, believed, and supported every step of the way.”
Wynona’s House serves all 22 municipalities in Essex County. Each year it provides coordinated services under one roof to more than 950 child victims and about 1,200 siblings and family members. The organization offers trauma-informed care through a Multi-Disciplinary Team response that includes hospital staff, Prosecutor’s Office staff, child protection workers, and its own team of advocates and coordinators.
Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz said: “Wynona’s House is a beacon of hope for children and their families facing unimaginable trauma and neglect, providing the resources and compassion they need to heal and move forward. Because of their dedication, Essex County is closer to breaking the cycle of abuse and building a future where every child feels safe, loved, and cared for.”
Assemblywomen Eliana Pintor Marin and Shanique Speight issued a joint statement: “We want our parents and children to know that help is available and right here in the heart of Newark. When multiple stressors build up in families, children have a greater likelihood of experiencing maltreatment. As legislators and moms, we have a duty to ensure every child is protected from serious physical injury and harm.”
Crocker noted that both staff members and clients at Wynona’s House are thankful for support from state and local officials during what he described as an uncertain time for many nonprofits dealing with federal funding challenges.
More information about Wynona’s House can be found at wynonashouse.org.
