Deirdre’s house: a beacon of hope for morris county's child victims

Deirdre’s House: A Beacon of Hope for Morris County’s Child Victims

by
July 25, 2024
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MORRISTOWN, N.J. — Since its opening in 1996, Deirdre’s House in Morristown has provided a nurturing and safe environment for Morris County’s most vulnerable victims to speak to law enforcement. This child advocacy center, adorned with toys and homely furniture, has served over 55,000 child victims, offering crucial services in their times of need.

Named in honor of Deirdre O’Brien, a 25-year-old Mendham Township resident who was murdered by a serial killer in 1982, the facility stands as a testament to her memory. The initiative to open Deirdre’s House began in 1994 when Morris County Prosecutor W. Michael Murphy and Assistant Prosecutor Karin Kelly-Weisert proposed the idea to the O’Brien family. Jim O’Brien, Deirdre’s father, was a member of the Morris County Board of Chosen Freeholders and president of the Statewide Coalition of Crime Victims at the time. With the Freeholder Board’s cooperation, the county purchased the house at 8 Court Street in Morristown, providing a long-term lease to the newly formed non-profit Child Advocacy Center.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony in April 1994 was a significant event, attended by Governor Christie Whitman, legislators, police chiefs, and hundreds of spectators. Designed to resemble a home, Deirdre’s House offers a welcoming environment where child victims of violence can be interviewed by law enforcement without the intimidation of a police station. The facility also provides professional pediatric examinations and preparation for trial.

Deirdre’s House Advocacy Program extends its services to include medical, forensic, and counseling support in both English and Spanish, aiming to limit trauma and offer a path forward for child victims. Additionally, the center conducts educational and outreach programs for the public and professionals working with children.

To learn more about Deirdre’s House or to make a donation, visit Deirdre’s House. This remarkable institution continues to be a pillar of support for children in Morris County, ensuring they receive the care and assistance they need.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

As the founder of Shore News Network, Stilton oversees editorial operations, investigative reporting, and breaking news coverage while working closely with journalists, public officials, and community leaders. His reporting has covered municipal government, state politics, federal policy, public records investigations, emergency management, and major news events affecting local communities.

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