News Archive

Neil A. Armstrong middle schoolers learned how to be safe both online and in-person.

Why don’t more adults know the signs of child sexual abuse? In Bucks County, sexual abuse-related cases accounted for nearly one quarter of the 105 substantiated child abuse reports in 2019.

The Network of Victims Assistance (NOVA) always wants students to be the safest version of themselves whether online or in person. In order to help Neil A. Armstrong Middle School students feel prepared in a myriad of topics, NOVA gave virtual presentations earlier this month on digital footprint, internet safety and healthy relationships.

On Sunday, a student-led vigil was held at the old courthouse in Doylestown to recognize all women — transgender, nonbinary, African Americans, those of Latina descent, those of Asian descent, and others — who have faced violence at the hands of men. NOVA (Network of Victim Assistance) and A Women’s Place enthusiastically took this opportunity to advocate, support, and educate all.

Unfortunately, many contractors that solicit business by going door to door are, most likely, not legitimate contractors. Many are not registered as Home Improvement Contractors (HIC) as required by Pennsylvania law.

Spot a Mini-Bus with NOVA’s “Not On My Watch” Ad & You May Win a Prize. April is Child Sexual Assault Awareness month, and Network of Victim Assistance (NOVA), Bucks County’s comprehensive service agency for victims of sexual assault and other serious crimes, has an ambitious goal of training 25,000 adults in Child Sexual Abuse (CSA) awareness and prevention via its “Not On My Watch” education program.

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Network of Victim Assistance (NOVA) is now offering several of their education programs virtually.

Simon Jolin-Barrette says testifying in court is difficult for many, but is particularly daunting for children. The government is creating a program to help them get through it. (Sylvain Roy Roussel/Radio-Canada)

Bucks County Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA1) has introduced the bipartisan Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act (VAWA) of 2021. The legislation authorizes funding for a variety of critical grant programs, including for victim services, prevention, training, education, enforcement, economic stability, and other programs that support survivors and help them to heal and to access justice.

As kids and teens have been at home during the pandemic, they are spending more time online. With that comes increased risk of communicating with an online predator.

When tragic events occur, it often falls to victim services organizations to help traumatized individuals pick up the pieces. And they step in to offer support to the broader community after horrifying incidents take place in public spaces, such as the mass shooting Feb. 17 at the Olney Transportation Center and the one just three days later at a bowling alley in Montgomery County.

It’s far more common than we think. Here’s why we don’t talk about it.