Orsara di Puglia launches integration project to boost economy and curb depopulation

The municipality of Orsara di Puglia unveiled the “Dalla A alla Z – dall’Accoglienza all’integraZione” project, aimed at supporting refugees with international protection and newly‑adult beneficiaries of the SAI (Sistema di Accoglienza e Integrazione) programme. Funded by the EU Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (FAMI), the initiative seeks to foster social and economic autonomy, create jobs, sustain essential services and counter the depopulation of small inland communes. Two practical tools were introduced: a “Guida pratica al lavoro” to guide beneficiaries through the local labour market, and a “Guida all’abitabilità” to help them secure safe, adequate housing. Mayor Mario Simonelli highlighted that the project “generates economy, development and employment” and can keep schools and services open in the Monti Dauni area. The partnership includes the social cooperative Medtraining and the NGOs Mondo Nuovo APS and ANOLF Puglia APS. The project builds on earlier SAI actions and aims to produce individual integration plans for each participant.