Notes
Key populations: 2SLGBTQ+ refugees who now live in Edmonton
Community organizations: Rainbow Refuge (part of the Edmonton Newcomer Centre)
Future research / gaps identified: n/a
Integration timeline: not defined
Key findings:
1) The Rainbow Refuge program, which provides counselling, legal services, housing, employment and community for 2SLGBTQIA+ refugees, has put Edmonton on the map as a safe and supportive city for queer and trans refugees.
2) Membership has surged to more than 600 people, and has tripled over the past year.
3) The government doesn’t fund refugee claimants, and with just three staff, Rainbow Refuge have scraped together money from a city grant, donors, partners and fundraisers. “We try our best to support everyone, but with this high number, we are really struggling,” staff Abou Hamrah said.
4) Members of Rainbow Refuge comprise of refugees from more than 60 countries, where 60% of members are from Uganda.
5) Multiples stories from Rainbow Refuge members are highlighted in the article.
