End of the Rainbow Foundation

About the Program

Help Save Lives and Build Futures: Support LGBTQ+ Refugees with End of the Rainbow Foundation

The End of the Rainbow Foundation is a Calgary-based charity doing life-saving work. While they offer vital support for newcomers, one of their most urgent and courageous missions is helping LGBTQ+ refugees escape violence and persecution simply for being who they are.

Private Sponsorship

Through the Calgary LGBTQ+ Private Sponsorship Program, the Foundation helps LGBTQ+ individuals who’ve fled life-threatening situations with the help of the UNHCR or Canadian Government. These are people who’ve faced imprisonment, torture, and the constant threat of death in countries where being LGBTQ+ is criminalized—or worse, considered a disgrace punishable by family “honour killings.”

Once in Calgary, the Foundation provides a safety net. They help refugees build new lives—offering shelter, food, clothing, language training, job support, and connection to community. Volunteers play a crucial role, and when more specialized help is needed, they refer newcomers to professional services at the Centre for Newcomers.

Challenge

But here's the challenge: for every single person brought to safety, they must first raise $20,000. With current funding, they can only assist five refugees a year—just a small fraction of the hundreds who reach out in desperation.

Roland's Story

The people they help don’t just survive—they thrive. Take Roland, one of the Foundation’s first success stories. After surviving torture and fleeing to Canada alone, he arrived in Calgary with nothing—no English, no friends, no home. Thanks to the Foundation’s support, Roland learned the language, found work, and rebuilt his life. Today, he’s fluent in English, has a stable job, and even bought his first home. Without help, he may not have survived.

Every dollar donated helps bring someone like Roland to safety—and gives them the chance to live, love, and contribute in peace.

You Can Make A Difference

These refugees aren’t just seeking a better life. They’re running for their lives.

The End of the Rainbow Foundation is doing the work others can’t or won’t. They are giving people a chance not just to survive—but to belong, to rebuild, and to dream.

Your support literally saves a life.

How You Can Help 🧑‍🤝‍🧑

• Donate to provide housing, food, and essentials
• Volunteer your time or expertise
• Spread awareness about the program