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Frequently Asked Questions

• Do children live at Deirdre's House?
  No. We are not a residential facility. Children and their families come to our Center to receive services, but do not remain here overnight.
  
  
• What are your operating hours?
  Our normal hours of operation are Monday-Friday from 8:30AM-4:30PM, however our clinician does have evening availability. For case related purposes, our facility is available to law enforcement and child protective services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
  
  
• I live out of county/state. Can I receive services?
  Deirdre's House provides services to Morris County child victims and their families. We do not have the resources or jurisdiction to provide services to residents of other counties/states. If you reside in another county or state, it is quite possible that there may be a child advocacy center in your area. Please check the National Children’s Alliance website (nca-online.org) for a listing of CAC’s in the US or contact your County Prosecutor’s Office Victim/Witness Unit.
  
  
• I suspect a child is being abused. What do I do?
  The appropriate agencies to make reports of child abuse and neglect are the Division of Youth and Family Services (1-877-NJABUSE), the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office (973-285-6200) or your local police department. We do not investigate child abuse cases and cannot accept reports of child abuse, however if you have questions about reporting or encounter any problems reporting abuse, please call 973-631-5000 and we will try to assist you.
  
  
• Can Deirdre's House help me with information regarding child support or custody/visitation issues?
  No. Please call the Morris County Family Court, located in the Morris County courthouse, for all questions regarding custody, child support, divorce proceedings, visitation, and the like. They can be reached at 973-656-4362.
  
  
• Does Deirdre's House do community presentations?
  Yes, we are available to present information to community organizations and groups. Please call 973-631-5000 to schedule a presentation or receive more information.
  
  
• I need information on a child care facility/daycare center. Can you recommend one?
  Unfortunately, Deirdre's House cannot recommend child care facilities. Child and Family Resources has a Child Care Referral Service that may be able to assist you. You can contact them at 973-398-1730.
  
  
• I need a lawyer and/or legal advice. Can you help me?
  Deirdre's House cannot provide lawyer referrals or legal advice; however we can direct you to the Morris County Bar Association, which has a lawyer referral service. You can access this service by calling 973-267-5882. If your questions are concerning an open investigation/criminal case in which you or your child is the victim, please contact the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office for case information and status.
  
  
• I am concerned about the handling of a DYFS investigation.
  While we do work closely with child protective services, we do not oversee DYFS and have no influence over case management. If you have concerns or questions regarding a DYFS investigation, please first contact the casework supervisor. If you need further assistance, contact the New Jersey Office of the Child Advocate at 1-877-543-7864 or visit www.childadvocate.nj.gov
  
  
• I need help regarding my child and school/school placement, etc.
  Deirdre's House is a child abuse related facility. While we do offer child advocacy, it is only provided in relation to cases involving abuse, neglect or family violence. If you have a problem regarding your child’s education, please inquire to the New Jersey State Department of Education as to who you should contact.
  
  
• I would like to donate items to Deirdre's House. What do you need?
  We greatly appreciate donations of goods. Below is a list of items that we always need:
  -Healthy snacks and drinks
  -New and gently used toys and games (please nothing with numerous
  and/or small parts)
  -Children’s DVD’s for ages infant + (please nothing with graphic violence,
  language or sexual content)
  -Art, craft and school supplies
  -Gift cards for stores such as Walmart, Target, or other department type stores
  -Gift cards for kid friendly restaurants and activities