We believe in a North Shore where everyone belongs. Driven by a commitment to build inclusive and equitable communities, and create opportunities for success and belonging for all im/migrants, we are proud to announce our latest initiative, the Bridge to Belonging program. This program aims to address the unique needs of LGBTQIA+ newcomers and their families.
The Bridge to Belonging program is grounded in the findings from our recent research on creating safe spaces and reducing barriers to settlement services for LGBTQIA+ newcomers and their families. The research findings highlight the realities faced by LGBTQIA+ im/migrants
In this research, 70% of LGBTQIA+ identifying newcomers noted social isolation as their biggest challenge.
Newcomers face many challenges while settling in Canada. These challenges are layered and often compound one another, creating significant barriers to integration. Individual identities are unique and complex, requiring an intersectional approach to needs identification.
As a result of findings through surveys and focus groups, specific challenges were identified for LGBTQIA+ im/migrants, the top three challenges were social isolation (70%), housing (58%), and health concerns (43%). Recommendations based on this research include improving safety of spaces and inclusivity within organizations, using a client-centred, trauma-informed service approach, and increasing availability of tailored services to meet the unique and specific needs of the LGBTQIA+ newcomer community. The Bridge to Belonging Program has been specifically designed based on these recommendations to support LGBTQIA+ newcomers and their families in their journey to belonging.
Introducing the Bridge to Belonging Program
The Bridge to Belonging program is specifically tailored for LGBTQIA+ newcomers and their families to address gaps in services, understand their unique needs, and implement best practices to provide effective support:
- Orientation and Needs Assessments: Personalized assessments to identify the specific needs and goals of each newcomer.
- Referral and Navigation Services: Assistance in accessing essential services and resources within the community.
- Individual Support: Guidance and support in areas such as settlement, housing, education, employment, and health.
- Group Workshops: Interactive sessions to build skills, knowledge, and a sense of community.
- Interpretation Referral Services: Language support to ensure clear and effective communication.
- Community Events and Networking Opportunities: Creating spaces for connection, celebration, and mutual support.
The Bridge to Belonging program is a testament to the power of collective impact. By working together with various partners and community members, we aim to build capacity and create an environment where LGBTQIA+ newcomers can thrive.
If you or someone you know could benefit from the Bridge to Belonging program, please share this information with them or contact the Bridge to Belonging program lead, Shadi Ashtari (shadia@impactnorthshore.ca). Additionally, our toolkit provides valuable guidance and resources for service providers to create safe and inclusive environments for LGBTQIA+ newcomers and their families.
Together, we all shine. By supporting initiatives like Bridge to Belonging, we are taking meaningful steps toward a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
For more information on the Bridge to Belonging program or to access our toolkit for service providers, please visit our website.
Thank You
We are grateful to the newcomer LGBTQIA+ participants for contributing their time, lived experiences, and emotional labour that set the foundation for this new program. We would also like to acknowledge the service providers and settlement-sector leaders that offered their knowledge and insights into service delivery that informed the creation of a toolkit for service providers to better support LGBTQIA+ im/migrants.
Thank you to the organizations and individuals that participated in the project Advisory Committee and our sincere gratitude to everyone who lent their time, insights, and invaluable contributions to the research. We would also like to acknowledge United Way for their generous financial support for this project.
