Rainbow Resilience Needs Assessment Report Released!

We’re pleased to share the findings of the Rainbow Resilience Program Needs Assessment: Barriers to HIV, HCV, and Sexual Health Services for LGBTQ+ Immigrants, Refugees, Newcomers, and Non-Status Individuals in Ontario, an initiative led by the Community Alliance for Accessible Treatment (CAAT) and funded by Women and Gender Equality Canada (WAGE). The program aims to advance health equity for LGBTQ+ immigrants, refugees, newcomers, and non-status (IRNN) individuals across Ontario by addressing barriers to HIV, Hepatitis C, sexual health, and related health and social services.

As part of the program, CAAT conducted a province-wide needs assessment to better understand the experiences of LGBTQ+ IRNN communities and the service providers who support them. Through community engagement across Southern Ontario, participants identified challenges related to healthcare access, system navigation, stigma, language, and culturally responsive care, while also sharing practical recommendations for strengthening services.

These findings are informing the development of community-driven resources, including the Sexual Health Services Roadmap, Connected Care Pathways Tool, and Peer Navigator Training Program, designed to improve navigation and increase access to affirming, culturally responsive care across Ontario.

Read the full Rainbow Resilience Needs Assessment Report here to explore the findings and community-informed recommendations.

Read the Full Report Here: