Effort underway to help NJ child services worker stabbed multiple times

It has been two weeks since child protective services worker Leah Coleman was stabbed more than 20 times while at her desk at the New Jersey Department of Children and Families offices in Camden. While the 29-year-old remains in stable, but critical condition, the Communications Workers of America (CWA) has started a fundraiser in her name.

"There was such an outpouring from union members who wanted to do something to give back for the sacrifice that Leah made. We wanted to rally behind her and show support," Jim McAsey, CWA National Staff Representative. "We presume that the family has expenses, they aren't going to work because they are going to the hospital to support Leah so we just wanted to help in any way we could."

The stabbing happened just after 1 p.m. on Nov. 17 in a common area of the building, when 30-year-old Taisha Edwards, a Camden resident, went after Coleman with a kitchen knife. The incident came just three days after security officers were redeployed and no longer stationed on that particular floor. Authorities said other workers came to Coleman's aid and subdued Edwards.

Edwards has been charged with attempted murder, aggravated assault and weapons offenses.

Coleman continues to recovery from her injuries at Cooper University Hospital.

"We're going to present her with the funds on the day she gets out of the hospital and she can use it for whatever she may need," McAsey said. "Every day Leah is making small, but important progress. Still, we have no idea when she'll be able to get out of the hospital."

McAsey is hoping the donations reach at least $15,000. As of Nov. 26, more than 200 donations have been collected, for a total of $7,600.

If you would like to donate to the fund, "Support Leah Coleman and Her Family," visit https://www.giveforward.com/fundraiser/ysl6.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.