We help LGBTQI+ people facing persecution based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, and sex characteristics
As a result of Rainbow Railroad, more LGBTQI+ individuals can access lives free from persecution. Ultimately, we envision a world where LGBTQI+ people can live lives of their choosing.
Our Work
Rainbow Railroad is an international human rights organization that creates pathways to safety for at-risk LGBTQI+ people and strengthens policies and systems that support their protection and integration. We are one of few organizations that work as direct service providers, advocates, thought leaders, and movement strategists to address global queer forced displacement. Our mission is guided by a commitment to becoming a refugee-led organization that centres the experiences, leadership, and authority of LGBTQI+ refugees.
Rainbow Railroad’s work focuses on six core program areas:
International Travel and Resettlement: Through our Emergency Travel Support and Government-Assisted Refugee programs, Rainbow Railroad helps LGBTQI+ refugees facing imminent danger relocate permanently to safer countries. Support may include travel documentation, pre-departure preparation and expenses, flights, temporary accommodation in transit, and post-arrival assistance.
Communities of Care: Rainbow Railroad provides post-settlement support to help LGBTQI+ newcomers access housing, employment opportunities, and economic stability. Our Community Support Team program recruits and trains volunteers to help newcomers build community and navigate the challenges of settling in a new city.
Cash Assistance: Rainbow Railroad provides short-term financial assistance to individuals facing immediate danger or urgent financial hardship. Support can cover essential needs such as housing, medical care, legal services, in-country relocation, and other basic necessities. Our Housing and Livelihood Assistance Fund (HLAF) helps improve post-settlement outcomes, reduce isolation, and support newcomers as they rebuild their lives.
Grassroots Mobilization & Crisis Response: Rainbow Railroad partners with grassroots LGBTQI+ organizations that provide frontline support in countries where we receive requests for help. Through the Grassroots Mobilization Fund and Crisis Response Fund, we provide funding that strengthens local organizations' capacity and enables rapid responses to regional crises affecting LGBTQI+ communities.
Information Services and Referrals: We provide information, referrals, and connections to pro bono legal assistance, refugee services, mental health supports, and LGBTQI+ community organizations that offer direct services and opportunities for social connection.
Advocacy and Systemic Change: Rainbow Railroad works with governments, the United Nations, and civil society to advance laws and policies that protect LGBTQI+ people and uphold their right to live free from persecution. In 2026, we launched the Queer Forced Displacement Network, a global network of refugee-led organizations, LGBTQI+ groups, researchers, governments, human rights defenders, and people with lived experience, to strengthen protections for LGBTQI+ people in forced displacement and ensure lived experience informs advocacy, research, and protection efforts.
Our History
Rainbow Railroad was founded in 2006 as a volunteer-run organization by a diverse group of LGBTQI+ activists and human rights defenders who wanted to do more to address the levels of violence LGBTQI+ people face worldwide. Our name harkens back to the Underground Railroad – a network of activists in the 19th century, who assisted Black folks escape enslavement in the American South.
Rainbow Railroad scaled up its operations after receiving charitable status in Canada and the United States in 2013 and 2015 respectively.
Annual Reports, Audited Financials, and Strategic Plans
Rainbow Railroad Leadership
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Support LGBTQI+ People at Risk
Rainbow Railroad is both a registered 501(c)(3) in the USA & a registered Canadian charity. The currency chosen below will correspond to the country tax receipt you will receive.
For UK tax receipts use our donation form here. For more currency options, or to donate in someone's honor, use our alternate donation form here.
For more information or questions, please email donations@rainbowrailroad.org.
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