{
  "id": 15318283,
  "title": "Project builds bridges to safety for migrant families",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/17/project-builds-bridges-to-safety-for-migrant-families",
  "topic": null,
  "section": null,
  "published": "2026-10-17T20:30:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Discovered",
    "slug": "discovered",
    "url": "https://begadistrictnews.com.au/story/9370361/project-builds-bridges-to-safety-for-migrant-families"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "A project in Melbourne's western suburbs is building bridges of safety for migrant families facing violence. Chitra, a trusted community member, jumped into action after her son's friend called, saying his father was threatening his mother. Using her training as a Sitara—a community champion—Chitra helped the woman reach safety and connected her with services like Safe Steps and Orange Door.\n\nProject Sitara, run by GenWest for four years, aims to provide migrant and refugee women with a critical bridge to safety. By speaking their language and listening, Sitaras like Chitra and Nina—another respected community leader—gain the trust of women who may be hesitant to seek help. Sitaras offer emotional support and guidance, helping women navigate the complex Australian family violence system.\n\nThe initiative has led to social change, with many women gaining confidence and understanding patriarchal structures. Minderoo Foundation's recent funding will expand Project Sitara to more communities in Victoria, recognizing the importance of community-led solutions in preventing gender-based violence.",
  "summary": null,
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}