Our Services
Supporting LGBTQIA+ Refugees
If you are seeking refuge or considering a refugee claim while living in British Columbia
Inland Program
Rainbow Refugee’s Inland Program offers group-based, peer-informed support for LGBTQIA+ individuals in British Columbia navigating Canada’s inland refugee claim process. From understanding your rights to preparing for your hearing or exploring appeal options, the program provides workshops, drop-ins, legal referrals, and tailored resources, all rooted in community care and lived experience. While one-on-one support is limited due to high demand, the Inland Program ensures LGBTQIA+ claimants aren’t alone as they seek safety and protection.
If you've left your home country but remain unsafe, you may be eligible for LGBTQI+ sponsorship to Canada.
Sponsorship Program
Our Sponsorship Program empowers LGBTQIA+ individuals fleeing persecution to rebuild their lives in Canada with dignity and safety. Through private sponsorship and the Rainbow Refugee Assistance Partnership (RRAP), we support refugees with essential financial aid, community-based care, and long-term integration. At the heart of this effort are Circles of Hope — volunteer groups trained to provide personalized, trauma-informed support. Backed by legal expertise, capacity-building workshops, and an ethos of mutual respect, our program transforms sponsorship into a powerful movement of solidarity, resilience, and collective action.
Supports refugee claimants, protected persons, GARs, and PSRs.
Time to Thrive
Time to Thrive (T2T) is a psychosocial support program for LGBTQIA+ refugees, asylum seekers, and protected persons. It offers one-on-one and group support, housing and healthcare advocacy, mental health and system navigation resources, and specialized programming for trans and gender-diverse individuals—all designed to help newcomers overcome barriers and build thriving lives in Canada.
Supports refugee claimants, protected persons, GARs, and PSRs.
Community Engagement and Belonging
As part of the T2T program, the Community Engagement & Belonging (CEB) initiative offers LGBTQIA+ refugees and newcomers in British Columbia a welcoming space to find connection, joy, and healing. Through weekly social cafés, peer-led groups, workshops, and cultural events, CEB fosters belonging and combats isolation for those navigating