Rainbow Refugee Society

Provides information and support to refugees and refugee claimants in Canada who are seeking refugee status because of fear of persecution due to sexual orientation, gender identity, and/or HIV positive status. Facilitates private sponsorship for refugees through Rainbow Refugee Assistance Partnership (RRAP), a blended sponsorship program; the federal government provides financial support and a start-up package for the first three months, and a Circle of Hope community group provides pre- and post- arrival support through funding, form completion, and settlement assistance. Tuesday Walk-in from 1 pm to 3 pm at Rainbow Lounge (1033 Davie street, ground floor) provides intake and assessment for new members, and offers information, advocacy, and navigation to new and current members regarding refugee claims, housing-related matters, and income assistance. Support Open House from 1 pm to 3 pm Wednesdays at Rainbow Lounge offers psychosocial support to current members. Thursday Walk-in from 10 am to 12 noon at Rainbow Lounge provides intake and assessment for new members, and offers information, advocacy, and navigation to new and current members regarding refugee claims, and housing-related matters. Also offers educational workshops in the community, and advocates with other refugee organizations regarding policy issues. Appointments are required, except during walk-in times. Volunteers speak Arabic, English, Farsi, and Spanish, and staff and volunteers can provide access to interpretation. Nonprofit society, registered charity.