Blog

When you hear the term domestic violence, what comes to mind first? Maybe you think of a couple arguing, or an adult victim with visible injuries, or someone leaving home late at night with only the clothes they are wearing. Often, we overlook that in many of these situations, the partner is not the only one affected. We tend to forget about the children. 

CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocate. We are the only nonprofit in Middlesex County authorized by the courts to train volunteers who speak up for children removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect. Our volunteers visit the children they are assigned to and submit reports to the Family Court Judge with recommendations to help improve each child’s life and make sure their needs are met. CASA volunteers also advocate for services like therapy and school evaluations that support children dealing with trauma, including domestic violence.

A 2009 study from the U.S. Department of Justice found that when children are exposed to violence, whether as victims or witnesses, it can lead to long-term physical, psychological, and emotional harm. These children are also more likely to become part of the cycle of violence themselves. It is important not just to raise awareness about domestic violence, but also to understand that to reduce the number of people affected, we need to focus on breaking the cycle. This includes offering support to children who have seen domestic violence at home, so they do not grow up to become abusers or marry someone who is. Many thanks to the South Brunswick Commission on Women for giving CASA the opportunity speak about this issue and for helping raise awareness.