September 18, 2024
The Community Foundation of New Jersey (CFNJ) launched a new fund today that aims to ensure at least one domestic violence shelter in every county can house survivors and their pets — helping them find refuge together. Supported through the Quinn’s Corner Fund, these grants will cover everything from vet bills and staff training to capital expenses and planning funds.
Currently, there are more than 35 DV programs and over 20 DV shelters in 21 counties across New Jersey. But only one shelter in the state, 180 Turning Lives Around in Monmouth County, accommodates both residents and pets fleeing domestic violence. In response to this unmet need, CFNJ is partnering with RedRover, Greater Good Charities, and the New Jersey Coalition to End Domestic Violence (NJCEDV) to help additional non-profits, DV shelters, and other groups retrofit their facilities to serve New Jerseyans and their beloved companions.
“Nearly half of domestic violence survivors are forced to make the difficult decision to stay with the person causing them harm because they can’t leave with their pet. Other survivors return to an unsafe living situation because their pet is being used to get them back,” said Mary Trinity, Associate Director of NJCEDV. “With reductions in funding for domestic violence services, the scarcity of affordable housing, and the significant number of survivors without the resources to meet their basic needs, it is imperative that we find solutions. The Quinn’s Corner Fund sets the stage for New Jersey to be a model state, offering systemic solutions for survivors of domestic violence. NJCEDV is honored to be a part of this community collaboration.”
Katie Campbell, President & CEO of RedRover, noted that her organization and Greater Good Charities had already been engaged in a national effort when they decided to support CFNJ in launching the fund.
“The ‘Don’t Forget the Pets’ collaborative project is committed to meeting the real need of keeping people and their pets together,” she explained. “We had set a goal of making sure 25% of U.S. shelters are pet friendly by the end of 2025, so we welcome the opportunity to maintain that critical human-animal bond during a traumatic time for New Jerseyans with this fund.”
An abiding love for her pets inspired Karen Lindemann, who created the fund with CFNJ’s guidance, to champion the need for a sanctuary for both survivors and their companions across the state. No shelters had ever offered this service in New Jersey until 180 Turning Lives Around connected with Karen about the lack of space for pets in safe houses. Together, they created a program that continues today at the Monmouth shelter.
“Karen played a crucial role in championing and funding the establishment of the pet program at our shelter, reshaping attitudes toward pets in the Safe House Program throughout our organization. It has been a privilege witnessing Karen’s vision materialize, helping us at 180 to ensure that families remain intact while in our safe house,” said Liz Graham, CEO of 180 Turning Lives Around.
“Karen’s cause was unique but we believe in working thoughtfully with donors, fundholders, and partners to make the greatest positive impact with their giving — whether their idea is simple or complex,” added Hans Dekker, President of CFNJ. “We are grateful that we have experienced partners who are launching the fund with us today and honored to help provide safe places for more New Jerseyans to rebuild their lives with their companions by their side.”
For more information about the fund, visit https://cfnj.org/lindemann/.
About the Community Foundation of New Jersey
Over our 45-year history, the Community Foundation of New Jersey has collaborated with funders and fundholders, non-profits and businesses, and individuals and families to design philanthropic solutions that improve lives and solve complex challenges. We leverage over $900 million in assets, more than 1,160 funds, and partnerships with 1,110 fundholders to think boldly and creatively about ways to give — making philanthropic goals a reality in New Jersey and beyond.
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