TRENTON, NJ - Tuesday, August 26, 2014 marks the 40th anniversary of New Jersey's Division on Women (DOW), established in 1974 as a pioneering state agency for women's advocacy.  The anniversary coincides with the nationally-recognized Women's Equality Day, which commemorates the 1920 passage of the 19th Amendment guaranteeing women the right to vote by celebrating and supporting equal rights for women in their organizations and activities.

Today, DOW, which resides within the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF), continues its tradition of advocating for women's rights and opportunities by funding organizations, agencies, and programs that provide services to and for women.

"The programs funded by the New Jersey Division on Women are critically important," said DCF Commissioner Allison Blake.  "From assisting displaced homemakers to providing critical services for women who have experienced domestic violence or sexual violence, the Division on Women continues to fulfill the mission set out for it 40 years ago.  Serving the needs of today's women is the highest tribute the division can make to the women who came before us and paved the way for the rights we enjoy today."

Information about DOW's programs and services is available at http://www.state.nj.us/dcf/women/about/index.html.

In New Jersey, U.S. citizens over age 18 can register to vote by completing a Voter Registration Application available on the state's web site at: http://www.njelections.org/voting-information-voter-registration-forms.html.  The registration deadline to vote is 21 days prior to Election Day.

DCF is dedicated to ensuring a better today and an even greater tomorrow for every individual the department serves.  In partnership with New Jersey's communities, DCF ensures the safety, well-being, and success of New Jersey's women, children, and families.  DCF funds and directly provides services and support to over 100,000 women, children, and families each month.