Support for 2SLGBTQIA+ Refugee Claimants and Newcomers in Canada
Get Support in Canada
If you are in Canada and seeking refugee protection because of your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics, MCC Toronto may be able to help you connect with community support, information, and referrals.
You do not need to be religious or part of MCC Toronto’s congregation to contact us.
Important Service Update
If you are seeking a letter for an immigration application, legal matter, housing application, school application, or other purpose:
As of April 13, 2026, MCC Toronto no longer provides:
- general letters of support
- letters confirming attendance or participation in programs, services, events, or at the Newcomers Lounge
Online information sessions are also ending, with the final session scheduled for May 29, 2026.
Contact 2SLGBTQIA+ Refugee Services
After reviewing the service update above, please contact us if you have questions about available supports, referrals, or Newcomers Lounge information.
You do not need to tell your full story in your first message.
Share only what feels safe and necessary so we can understand the kind of support or referral you are looking for.
What We May Be Able to Help With
MCC Toronto can help you:
- find information about 2SLGBTQIA+ refugee and newcomer supports
- connect with community and peer support
- learn about our Newcomers Lounge
- find community services that may be able to help with housing, mental health, settlement, or other needs
- find support related to your sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression
What We Cannot Provide
MCC Toronto cannot provide:
- legal advice
- emergency help
- guaranteed housing or financial support
- refugee, immigration, sponsorship, or resettlement approvals
- general letters of support
- letters confirming that you attended programs, services, events, or Newcomers Lounge
MCC Toronto does not decide refugee claims, sponsorship applications, immigration applications, or resettlement applications.
If you need help with your refugee claim, please contact a qualified lawyer, licensed immigration consultant, legal clinic, or settlement organization.
Newcomers Lounge
The Newcomers Lounge is a community space for newcomers and refugee claimants to connect, ask questions, and learn more about available support in person.
Newcomers Lounge takes place on Sundays at 11 AM at:
MCC Toronto
115 Simpson Avenue
Toronto, ON M4K 1A1
For questions about Newcomers Lounge or current details, contact us.
Your Privacy
MCC Toronto will treat the information you share with care. We will not publicly share your name, image, story, refugee status, or personal information without your consent.
If English is Not Your First Language
If English is not your first language, you may wish to contact us with help from a trusted interpreter, settlement worker, or community organization.