It’s a bittersweet moment when a charity, which supports women who’ve experienced domestic violence (DV), celebrates a decade of service.

On one hand, it’s a sad reflection of the current state-of-affairs that an organisation is still needed to combat such issues in the Hunter.

But, on the other, there’s comfort knowing Got Your Back Sista (GYBS) has been on the ground for 10 years to assist local victim-survivors.

Since 2016, it’s gone on to help more than 5,000 women.

For founder Mel Histon, it is an achievement to be extremely pleased of.

Back in 2014, she was in Nepal working on a documentary about sex trafficking… and horrified to witness women facing awful conditions and situations. 

Once she returned home, she vowed to make a positive difference for those in her own town.   

So, she established GYBS to support women and children as they get their lives back on track. 

“Over the past 10 years, we’ve turned a small, home-based charity into a trusted frontline service supporting thousands of people who’ve experienced domestic violence,” Ms Histon said.

“Through our one-on-one casework support and recovery programs, we’ve walked alongside women as they rebuild their safety, confidence and independence. 

“I’m incredibly proud of the dedicated team that has grown around this mission.

“Professionals who show up every day with compassion, skill and unwavering commitment. 

“And, through our Say No to Domestic Violence campaigns, we’ve brought our community together to stand against violence and make it clear that silence is not an option.

“This milestone belongs not just to us, but to every woman we’ve supported and every community member who has chosen to be part of the solution.

“People regularly ask how they can help.

“And, my response is, however you can: if you have time to give, you may wish to volunteer; donate some canned groceries for our open-pantry; come to one of our fundraising events; buy a raffle ticket; donate a fundraising prize; shop at one of our Op Shops; participate in our annual I Run for Her campaign; make a donation.

“Educate your children about respectful relationships and role-model gender equity and positive, respectful behaviour.

“We hope that within the next 10 years Got Your Back Sista, or any DV service, will not need to exist.” 

GYBS has set up houses and crises shelters for people experiencing domestic violence, while coordinating programs and short courses to enable women to learn new skills. 

It also assists many others with finding individual support case work and runs two op shops with proceeds from the sales going directly back into the registered charity.

“A decade ago, we set out to create a place where women escaping DV could feel seen and supported,” founding board member Belinda Wellings said.

“Ten years on, this milestone reflects the courage of those we serve and a community that refuses to look away. 

“It’s proof of what’s possible when compassion is matched with action.”

Client Frankie Grandelis praised GYBS for its ongoing assistance.

“Through the various workshops and training courses I attended, I gained not only practical skills but also confidence and a renewed sense of direction,” she said.

“Each session was thoughtfully delivered and genuinely empowering. 

“Beyond the training opportunities, the pantry and meals they provided made a real difference during times when I needed extra support.

“It wasn’t just about food — it was about knowing someone cared. 

“They offered a space where I could feel supported, understood, and less alone.

“Every interaction with the team has been positive.

“I’ve always been treated with respect and dignity… and I have consistently felt safe whenever I’ve reached out for support. 

“GYBS has created more than just programs — they’ve created a community.

“I am truly thankful for the impact they’ve had on my life.” 

GOT YOU BACK SISTA STATS AND FACTS

• 5,184 women supported by casework and support programs over the past 10 years
• Approximately 400 women per year use their free grocery/pantry service
• Since they started this program three years ago, GYBS have provided 6,000 meals to women in financial distress
• They have helped furnish four women’s shelters
• They receive approximately 236 phone calls per month
• Approximately 6,000 people have participated in the I Run for Her campaign over the past six years 

For more community stories:

• Maitland hub expands wellbeing services for Hunter veterans
• Kurri Kurri rescue cat finds purr-fect home
• Selfless Street Side Medics making a difference in Newcastle

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