The Crisis Response Fund, part of the Queer Forced Displacement Initiative and supported by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office of the Government of the United Kingdom, is dedicated to addressing the urgent funding gaps faced by grassroots organizations in their efforts to support LGBTQ+ individuals and communities during times of crisis. This fund provides accessible, flexible funding to enable local organizations to respond effectively to crisis emergencies, ensuring LGBTQ+ people facing persecution, displacement, or other crises, have access to lifesaving protection and services.
Fund Goals
Support Local Initiatives: Strengthen the capacity of grassroots organizations to respond to emergency needs, including providing critical services such as emergency transportation, shelter, food, health and other support.
Address Immediate & Ongoing Needs: The fund addresses both short term urgent needs, such as safety and protection services, and medium term solutions, including capacity building, advocacy and mobilization efforts.
Catalyze Crisis Response: By empowering grassroots groups, the Crisis Response Fund serves as a catalyst for stronger, more effective crisis response mechanisms, ensuring LGBTQI+ individuals and communities receive the support they need in times of crisis.
Funding Applications & Regions
Round 1 – 2024/25 for Middle East & East Africa region only
Applications open – November 18, 2024
Applications close – January 30, 2025 (11:55 pm EST)
Round 2 – 2025 for Latin America, West & Central Africa region only
Applications open – March 18, 2025
Applications close – May 31, 2025 (11:55 pm EST)
Applications for 2026 to be announced in 2025
For more information and eligibility criteria, please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions or contact: crisisfund@rainbowrailroad.org
