Toronto-based Out Adventures is thrilled to announce a community partnership with Rainbow Railroad, the charitable organization that resettles LGBTQ+ people who face persecution based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and sex characteristics. The tour operator plans to donate $25,000 USD by the end of 2022.
There are over 80 million people around the world who are displaced right now – the highest number since World War II. Worse, the LGBTQ+ community is especially vulnerable to the systemic, state-enabled homophobia and transphobia that pervades many nations.
“For over 10 years we’ve made a point to support LGBTQ+ organizations in the places we visit and at home. But as we recover from the pandemic and borders open up, we want to extend this support” said Robert Sharp, Owner of Out Adventures. “Beginning immediately, we will donate $50 to Rainbow Railroad for every guest that travels on a scheduled Out Adventures tour. Every booking will contribute to their efforts to help innocent people live a safe life full of pride.”
“Rainbow Railroad’s work continues to be more vital than ever as the ongoing COVID-19 crisis puts LGBTQI people around the globe at even greater risk. So far in 2021, we have received more than 1,500 requests for help from individuals in over 90 countries,” explained Kimahli Powell, Rainbow Railroad’s Executive Director. “Thanks to the partnership with Out Adventures and their generous support, we will be able to help more people find safety.”
The partnership between Out Adventures and Rainbow Railroad kicks off during Pride month, and will continue into 2022 and beyond.