As the issue of domestic violence has received greater attention and acceptance as a serious health problem, Jewish Family Service of MetroWest NJ, through the Rachel Coalition, has taken a leadership role in developing a continuum of services to help break the cycle of family violence, which impacts the Jewish community equally to that of the general population.

Rachel Coalition offers the following:

·     Information and referral services

·     24-hour hotline

·     Medical, police, and clergy liaison

·     Assistance with locating emergency shelter

·     Individual therapy for victims of domestic violence

·     Supportive group counseling (for adults, children, and adolescents impacted by domestic violence)

·     Play therapy for children exposed to domestic violence

·     Community education programming

·     Batterer’s Intervention Program (group counseling for male abusers)

·     Transitional Planning and Post Safe House housing assistance

·     Legal consultation and assistance in obtaining restraining orders

·     Volunteer Court Advocate Services

·     Social work, case management, and legal support services at the Family Justice Center in Newark

Formed in 1997, the Rachel Coalition combines the resources and commitment of nine partnering agencies:

·     Jewish Family Service of MetroWest NJ

·     National Council of Jewish Women — Essex County Section

·     National Council of Women — West Morris Section

·     Women’s Philanthropy of the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest NJ

·     MetroWest Rabbinic Cabinet

·     Saint Barnabas Medical Center

·     Hadassah — Northern New Jersey Region

·     Jewish Women International — North Atlantic Region

·     JCC MetroWest