Tara Murray
Sunshine-based IndianCare hopes its new project will help empower women experiencing family violence.
The organisation recently received $260,000 from the state government for its Ujala Project, which will include workshops on financial literacy, leadership and legal rights for women including recent migrants and new mothers.
The funding will also help IndianCare run pottery classes with the aim of raising awareness about family violence.
IndianCare president Jaya Manchikanti said the funding will help them provide vital services to Melbourne’s west.
“This money is going into prevention and early intervention. We’ll offer financial and legal classes for women to look to empower them and not be left in vulnerable situations,” she said.
Ms Manchikanti said previous projects involving art to raise awareness of family violence had been successful.
IndianCare also has a phone line that people can call to report or speak about family violence.
“We provide support in many ways and look to refer to specific services, with importance on cultural nuances,” she said.
“COVID-19 meant we had some really complex calls come through that are not solved with one phone call.
“We’re investing to support multicultural and faith communities to lead their own prevention work and create change.
“This crucial work is helping people live a safer and more equal life, regardless of their culture or faith.”
Details: 8312 8805
