A New Chapter: Moving Into the Wynona Lipman Courthouse

After more than three decades in our offices at the Wilentz Courthouse, affectionately referred to as 212 Washington, CASA for Children of Essex County, has moved into the new Wynona Lipman Courthouse. This transition could not come at a more symbolic moment—as we step into our 40th anniversary of advocacy for children in foster care.

For forty years, CASA Essex has stood as a voice for children who have been removed from their homes due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment. The move to the Wynona Lipman Courthouse represents more than a change in location; it is a powerful symbol of renewal and progress.

The courthouse bears the name of Senator Wynona Lipman, a trailblazing legislator, advocate, and the first African American woman elected to the New Jersey State Senate. Senator Lipman dedicated her life to equity, justice, and opportunity for children, women, and families. Her vision was rooted in the belief that every child deserves dignity, fairness, and the chance to thrive. CASA Essex is proud to carry that same vision forward within the very courthouse that now honors her legacy.

Being housed in this new space will allow CASA Essex to continue its mission with greater visibility and accessibility, positioning us at the heart of the very system where our advocacy takes place. It is both a homecoming and a new beginning—a bridge between the foundation we’ve built over decades and the future we are shaping for children today.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to County Commissioner Joe DiVincenzo, whose leadership and support have been instrumental in making this move possible. His commitment to children and families echoes CASA Essex’s mission, and we are proud to step into this new chapter with champions like him by our side.

As we enter our 40th year into our new home, we are reminded that while our location has changed, our promise to children placed in foster care remains constant: to stand up, speak out, and ensure they are never forgotten.