Programs

Programs & Services

Practical, culturally responsive support for Spanish-speaking Latinx LGBTQ+ refugees and newcomers building a life in Canada.

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What we do

Practical, culturally responsive support.

Settlement & Integration

Building a new life in Canada can feel overwhelming, especially when language, culture, and systems are all new at once. We help Spanish-speaking Latinx LGBTQ+ refugees and newcomers navigate housing, employment, legal systems, government processes, and financial services with interpretation, referrals, and one-on-one support.

  • We help you navigate life in Canada — from housing and employment to legal and financial systems — with interpretation, guidance, and trusted referrals.
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Healthcare Navigation

We connect community members with LGBTQ+-friendly healthcare providers and help them understand and access systems like OHIP. We also provide referrals for HIV/AIDS support and other care that requires cultural sensitivity, trust, and clear communication.

  • We connect you with LGBTQ+-friendly healthcare providers and support you through systems like OHIP, including referrals for HIV/AIDS care.
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Education & Workshops

Our workshops are designed to give Spanish-speaking Latinx LGBTQ+ refugees and newcomers practical knowledge, confidence, and tools to move forward. Topics include legal navigation, mental health, safety, advocacy, employment skills, storytelling, and building trust with services and institutions.

  • We offer workshops on legal rights, mental health, safety, employment, and navigating systems with confidence.
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Social & Community Events

We believe connection is part of healing. Through gatherings, celebrations, and community events, we create spaces where Spanish-speaking Latinx LGBTQ+ refugees and newcomers can meet others, share experiences, and feel less alone.

  • We create spaces where people can connect, share experiences, and feel a sense of belonging without judgment.
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Housing Initiative

We are actively working toward creating a housing support space for Spanish-speaking Latinx LGBTQ+ refugees and newcomers. Stay tuned — no confirmed timeline yet.

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Programs in Action

Alongside direct support, VIVI'R LGBTQ+ runs community-rooted programs that create connection, learning, healing, and practical legal support.

  • In My Own Words

    A creative nonfiction writing workshop for Spanish-speaking Latinx LGBTQ+ refugees and newcomers to explore personal history, migration, and identity in a safe and affirming space. Through writing, readings, and reflection, participants build narrative skills while reconnecting with their own voice.

  • Sin Barreras Legal Clinic

    Thanks to support from the Ontario Law Foundation, VIVI'R LGBTQ+ is launching Sin Barreras, a legal clinic developed in partnership with Kes Posgate Law. The clinic focuses on culturally responsive legal support for Spanish-speaking Latinx LGBTQ+ refugees and newcomers, especially in immigration matters.

  • Transcheckandome & Monthly Community Gathering

    Supported by Rainbow Railroad, this monthly gathering creates a space for celebration, birthdays, workshops, and meaningful community connection. It is a place where people can show up fully, feel welcomed, and be part of something bigger than themselves.

Programs

Real support, real community

  • Community

    Built through trust, care, and shared experience

  • Support

    Rooted in guidance, referrals, and human connection

  • Belonging

    Creating spaces where people feel seen and less alone

Frequently Asked Questions

  • I just arrived in Canada and I don't know where to start. Can you help me?

    Yes. You don't need to have everything figured out. Reach out to us and we'll help you understand your next steps — whether that's healthcare, legal support, documents, or just someone to talk to.

  • Will talking to you affect my immigration status?

    No. We are a community organization, not the government. Talking to us is safe and confidential.

  • Can you help me with my refugee claim or immigration process?

    We can guide you, explain the process, and connect you with trusted legal professionals. We do not replace a lawyer, but we make sure you're not going through it alone.

  • Do I need to speak English to get help?

    No. We work in Spanish and make sure language is never a barrier.

  • Is everything really free?

    Yes. Everything we do is free. We are volunteer-led and supported through community care, partnerships, and grants.

  • I feel alone and don't know anyone here. Can I still come to your events?

    Yes. Many people come alone for the first time. Our events are meant to be welcoming, safe, and pressure-free. You can come exactly as you are.

  • Can you help me understand documents, appointments, or what people are telling me?

    In many cases, yes. We can offer interpretation, guidance, and help you better understand what is happening so you can make informed decisions.

  • What if I had a bad experience with another organization or service provider?

    We understand. Many people come to us after feeling unheard, judged, or misunderstood somewhere else. We take the time to listen and meet you where you are.

  • How long does it take to get help?

    It depends on your situation and our availability, but we do our best to respond as quickly as possible. Even if we do not have an immediate answer, we will do our best to guide you.

Need support right now?

Reach out to us. We'll do our best to listen, guide, and connect you with the support you need.

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