The Inland Program offers general guidance, group-based education, and peer-informed navigation. Due to limited staff and a growing number of participants, our support is primarily delivered through workshops, drop-ins, and group sessions.

Our services include:

Inland Walk-Ins (In-Person and Virtual)

1. • Weekly drop-in sessions available both in-person at our office and online.
2. • Open to LGBTQIA+ refugee claimants who have questions or need guidance.
3. • Suitable for general inquiries, accessing referrals, and informal check-ins with staff or trained volunteers.

Refugee Hearing Preparation

1. • Information about timelines, required documents, and what to expect at your hearing with the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB).
2. • Guidance on organizing evidence, understanding your rights, and accessing interpretation if needed.
3. • Support with logistics for in-person and virtual hearings.

Letters of Support for Hearings

1. • Provided to members who meet engagement criteria and have actively participated in Rainbow Refugee’s programming.
2. • Members must have regularly participated in Rainbow Refugee activities (e.g., workshops, meetings, community events).
3. • A scheduled hearing date must be within one month, and the member must reside in British Columbia and identify as LGBTQIA+.
4. • Letters are used to demonstrate community connection and highlight risk related to SOGIESC-based persecution.
5. • Requests must be submitted in advance and meet all eligibility criteria.

Referrals to Legal Aid and LGBTQIA+-Affirming Lawyers

1. • Access to a curated list of lawyers experienced in LGBTQIA+ refugee claims and IRB Guideline 9.
2. • Information on how to apply for Legal Aid in British Columbia if you cannot afford a lawyer.
3. • Assistance with identifying lawyers currently accepting new clients.

Peer Navigation

1. • Limited one-on-one support from trained volunteers with lived experience.
2. • Peer Navigators offer informal guidance and help you understand steps in the refugee process.
3. • Availability based on capacity and member need.

Workshops and Group Information Sessions

1. • Regularly hosted sessions on the refugee process, hearing preparation, healthcare access, interpretation, and post-hearing steps.
2. • Designed to be accessible and may include interpretation or co-facilitation by peers.
3. • Group-based format allows wider participation and shared learning.

Use of Space for Remote Hearings

1. • Private space at Rainbow Refugee’s office with access to a computer, headset, and reliable internet.
2. • Available to members who don’t have a quiet or secure location to attend their hearing.
3. • Must be requested and booked in advance to ensure availability.

We can help you understand or access:

• • The refugee claim process: how to apply, prepare your documents, and follow up

• • Legal services, including how to apply for Legal Aid and find LGBTQIA+-friendly lawyers

• • Interpretation needs and remote hearing support

• • Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) coverage and applying for MSP

• • Post-hearing steps such as applying for Permanent Residence or a Refugee Travel Document

• • Understanding government-issued documents (e.g., AOC, RPCD, Notice of Decision)

• • Navigating mental health supports and wellness services

• • Referrals to external organizations offering food, housing, and employment support (note: we do not offer these directly)

• • Accessing education and financial support as a Protected Person

We aim to offer consistent and supportive services, but there are some important limitations:

• We are not a legal service provider. We cannot offer legal advice or represent individuals. For complex cases, we refer members to qualified lawyers or clinics.

• We cannot assist with non-refugee immigration matters, such as visitor visas, student permits, work permits, PR renewals, or spousal sponsorships.

• Due to a 700% increase in demand, we are currently unable to offer one-on-one appointments to every person. We prioritize group sessions, workshops, and walk-ins to ensure broad access.

• This program is available only to individuals currently living in British Columbia.

If you are no longer in the refugee claim process and now hold another immigration status, such as having received refugee protection or sponsorship, you may still be eligible for support, but not through the Inland Program.

You may be eligible for support through Rainbow Refugee’s Time to Thrive team if you are:

1. • A Protected Person (you received a positive decision from the IRB)
2. • A Government-Assisted Refugee (GAR)
3. • A Privately Sponsored Refugee (PSR)
4. • A newcomer who has completed their hearing and needs help with post-hearing steps
5.  

The Time to Thrive team can help with:

1. • Orientation to healthcare, education, and employment supports
2. • Navigating local services and government benefits
3. • Guidance on Permanent Residence applications and related forms
4. • Access to group programs and LGBTQIA+ newcomer community events

If you think you may be eligible for Time to Thrive support, please contact the team directly or visit: