By: Richard L. Smith
Wynona’s House Child Advocacy Center has announced a major expansion of its Prevention By Design initiative through a new citywide partnership with the Newark Public Library (NPL), aimed at increasing access to child abuse prevention resources, education, and support across Newark.
For more than 25 years, Wynona’s House has served as a trusted source of healing and justice for child victims of abuse or neglect.
The organization has helped more than 13,900 children and their families by providing critical services in a safe and supportive environment.
The latest initiative strengthens Wynona’s House’s community-based prevention efforts by embedding educational programming and wellness resources within all NPL branches.
The goal is to reach families in safe, familiar spaces with tools to recognize and prevent abuse.
“This partnership brings vital resources directly into neighborhoods where families live, learn, and grow,” said Anna M. Coats, assistant director of Public Services at Newark Public Library.
In addition to the NPL collaboration, Wynona’s House is also joining forces with the Child Advocacy Center of Greater Rochester (CACGROC).
This partnership includes a mentorship initiative focused on expanding child abuse prevention strategies throughout Newark and Essex County.
“Our collaboration removes barriers and brings support to families where they are,” noted Chris Ann Bautista, director of Prevention at Wynona’s House.
The Prevention By Design program was launched in 2022 and has grown through support from The Healthcare Foundation of New Jersey.
The foundation’s early investment helped pilot this proactive, community-centered model focused on prevention, access, and education.
According to a statement from Wynona’s House officials, these partnerships represent a significant milestone in their mission to protect children and promote family well-being in Newark and beyond.
For more information, visit wynonashouse.org](https://wynonashouse.org