Breaking down barriers and creating pathways for a brighter future for refugees and the world’s most vulnerable and marginalized populations.
About Us
Hope for Refugees International (HRI) is a Black LGBTQI+ refugee, and newcomer-led, gender-diverse grassroots organization based in Toronto and serving communities across Ontario.
Founded and led by Black African LGBTQI+ refugees and newcomers, HRI exists to uplift Afro-Black and Caribbean LGBTQI+ refugees, asylum seekers, and newcomers, including survivors of gender-based violence, so they can live with dignity, safety, equity, and opportunity in Canada.
Why Our Work Matters
Black and LGBTQI+ refugees face multiple and intersecting barriers, including:
- Racism and anti-Black discrimination
- Homophobia, transphobia, and stigma
- Housing insecurity and homelessness
- Unemployment and economic exclusion
- Mental health challenges and trauma
- Gender-based violence and exploitationÂ
- Social isolation and lack of support networks
- Barriers to immigration protection and settlement services
HRI exists to address these systemic inequities and ensure refugees can rebuild their lives with dignity and opportunity.
We draw inspiration from the stories of survival, resilience, and the unwavering spirit of refugees who have been forced to flee their homes. Their determination to rebuild their lives in the face of adversity is a testament to the human spirit’s remarkable capacity for hope.
Our Programs
Settlement and Integration Support Program
Settlement and Integration Support Program
Immigration and Refugee Protection Support Program
Immigration and Refugee Protection Support Program
Employment and Economic Empowerment Program
Employment and Economic Empowerment Program
Health, Mental Health, and Wellness Program
Health, Mental Health, and Wellness Program
Gender Equality and Gender-Based Violence Response (SafeHaven Program)
Gender Equality and Gender-Based Violence Response (SafeHaven Program)
Youth Empowerment, Mentorship, and Leadership Program
Youth Empowerment, Mentorship, and Leadership Program
Arts, Culture, and Healing
Arts, Culture, and Healing
Advocacy, Research, and Systems Change
Mission
Our mission is to provide comprehensive support to refugees and displaced persons, ensuring their safety, dignity, and well-being. We are committed to advocating for their rights, offering educational and economic opportunities, and fostering social integration to help them rebuild their lives.
Vision
Our vision is a world where every refugee and displaced person has the opportunity to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope, free from fear and oppression. We envision communities where refugees are welcomed, supported, and empowered to contribute to society.
Values
We approach our work with empathy and compassion, committed to transparency, accountability, and ethical practices. We provide refugees with the tools and opportunities to achieve self-sufficiency, promoting diversity and respect for all voices. By partnering with communities, governments, and organizations, we create sustainable solutions for refugees and displaced persons.
Objectives
Our goals include ensuring safety and dignity by establishing safe shelters for 1,000 refugees by 2030, promoting education and skills development with a 50% increase in enrollment in educational programs by 2030, supporting economic empowerment through livelihood initiatives for 1000 refugees by 2030, advocating for policy changes to improve refugee rights with five targeted reforms by 2030, and enhancing social integration via 5 community-building events annually across our regions of operation.
Upcoming Events
Stand with Refugees, Asylum Seekers and Newcomers
There are many ways to get involved in the important work at Hope for Refugees International and support vulnerable refugees and asylum seekers.Â
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