“Grassroots partnerships allow for more responsive, culturally relevant support and foster genuine relationships that drive meaningful change.”
Building Belonging: How Vivi’r LGBTQ+ is Empowering Spanish-Speaking Newcomers in Toronto
When Vivi’r LGBTQ+ began in 2019, it was little more than a handful of Spanish-speaking LGBTQ+ newcomers in Toronto gathered to share stories, frustrations, and hopes for a safer, more inclusive future. Six years later, the grassroots group has grown into a vital community hub — providing workshops, advocacy, and support to refugees and asylum seekers navigating life in Canada.
Breaking Barriers for Spanish-Speaking Newcomers
“Vivi’r LGBTQ+ started as a small community group in response to the lack of access to culturally and linguistically appropriate support for Spanish-speaking LGBTQ+ refugees and newcomers,” said Viviana, Chair of Vivi’r LGBTQ+. “We wanted to create a space where people felt seen, heard, and supported.”
Today, Vivi’r LGBTQ+ focuses on legal education, community outreach, and advocacy for individuals who face language barriers and systemic discrimination. For many newcomers, especially those fleeing persecution, even basic systems — from immigration paperwork to healthcare — can feel insurmountable.
“Some of the biggest challenges include navigating complex immigration systems, overcoming language barriers, and dealing with trauma from discrimination and forced migration,” said Maria, the organization’s Secretary. “Many also struggle to find culturally competent legal and mental health support.”
The Power of Trust-Based Funding
That’s where Rainbow Railroad’s Community Access Fund comes in. Vivi’r LGBTQ+ was among the first recipients of the newly launched fund, which supports grassroots initiatives helping LGBTQI+ migrants and refugees access safety and belonging. The funding allowed Vivi’r LGBTQ+ to strengthen Vivi’r Empoderando, a monthly workshop series designed to educate, empower, and connect newcomers.
“Through this funding, we provided legal information sessions, financial literacy, community safety and crime prevention, and labour exploitation and human trafficking prevention.,” Maria explained. “These sessions have helped reduce isolation, increase community safety, and empower participants to advocate for themselves and others.”
Over the past year, the organization reached more than 100 Spanish-speaking LGBTQI+ newcomers — an impact that extends far beyond the numbers. For many participants, the workshops have been the first time they’ve had access to legal guidance in their language, or a space to share experiences without fear of judgment or misunderstanding.
“Receiving this funding was deeply meaningful,” Viviana said. “It validated our work and allowed us to continue serving people in need. We are incredibly grateful to Rainbow Railroad for the Community Access Fund, as well as for offering additional support and resources to continue growing our presence and visibility.”
The funding also came with something that grassroots organizations rarely experience: trust. Rainbow Railroad’s low-barrier, community-driven approach allowed Vivi’r LGBTQ+ to focus on its mission instead of red tape. “Rainbow Railroad’s trust-based, low-barrier approach made the process accessible and empowering,” Maria shared. “We felt respected as partners and were able to focus on meeting community needs rather than navigating complex administrative requirements.”
Expanding Hope and Building Futures
That flexibility, the pair say, is key to meaningful partnership. “Larger organizations can learn the value of flexibility, trust, and direct engagement with communities,” Viviana emphasized. “Grassroots partnerships allow 
for more responsive, culturally relevant support and foster genuine relationships that drive meaningful change.”
Looking ahead, Vivi’r LGBTQ+ plans to expand its programming even further. “We are adding information on how to enter post-secondary education after receiving a favourable decision on a refugee claim, as well as other resources to support integration,” Maria said. “Our vision is a community where all LGBTQ+ newcomers feel safe, supported, and empowered to build new lives in Canada.”
Their hope is that the Community Access Fund will continue to reach groups like theirs — small but mighty organizations that understand their communities best. “Together, we can create safer, more welcoming communities for LGBTQ+ migrants and refugees,” Viviana said.
For those who want to help, their message is clear: get involved. “Listen to the needs of newcomers and offer practical support — whether through volunteering, donating, or advocating for inclusive policies,” Viviana said. “Building trust and showing up consistently makes a real difference.”
Grassroots leaders like Maria and Viviana prove that when communities are trusted to lead, real transformation follows. The Community Access Fund isn’t just funding programs — it’s fueling resilience, belonging, and hope.