COVID-19 LGBTQAI2S+ Resource Guide

COVID-19 LGBTQAI2S+ Resource Guide

The following months will bring hardships for many of us: financial hardship, social isolation, fear and anxiety, barriers to accessing services, uncertainty and loss. Yet our communities are resilient, creative, and have a long history of working together to care for each other in times of crisis.

We are creating a resource guide targeted at LGBTQAI2S+ communities – though most resources are helpful for everyone – to get through the upcoming weeks and months. From food banks to digital events to employment information, we want to help you ride out the pandemic. We are going to get through this. Together.

We have done our best to vet sources – you can contact us at communications@vancouverpride.ca to add to our list, give us an update about a resource, or to let us know if you are concerned about a specific resource.

The situation is evolving daily – we have included the date each resource was added or updated. Some organizations may cancel, postpone or change their services. Please double check with the organization.

Make sure your information about COVID-19 comes from reputable sources, like the BC Centre for Disease Control and the Government of Canada.

Food Security

Food/Shelter Programs

Added: March 24, 2020

Resource:COVID Response: Food/Shelter Programs open in Vancouver

A list of food and shelter programs that are continuing to serve meals or provide indoor space for people who may be street-homeless or living in shelters. Includes hours of operation, addresses, if they have available support staff and how food is being distributed (many have to go options). Also includes programs which have been temporarily closed.

MAP Emergency Food Services and Community Supports

Added: March 24, 2020

Resource:COVID-19 Vancouver Emergency Food Services and Community Supports

Map of City of Vancouver community services, food support, hand washing stations, shelters, and supervised injection sites. Daily updates.

Saige Community Food Bank

Added: March 17, 2020

Website:Saige Community Food Bank

Saige Community Food Bank is a no-barrier food bank (no ID, proof of income or housing) which is a trans, two spirit and gender diverse safe space. Open every 2nd and 4th Friday of the month at Kiwassa Neighbourhood House (2425 Oxford Street) in East Vancouver.

3:30pm – numbers handed out lottery style

4:00 – Doors open

5:00ish – Food runs out

Upcoming Dates (confirmed as of March 17 – check their website for updates)

March 27, 2020

April 10 – Closed

April 24, 2020

May 8, 2020

Food Not Bombs Vancouver

Added: March 18, 2020

Facebook:Food Not Bombs Vancouver

Food Not Bombs will no longer be serving food directly, but will be helping deliver reclaimed food after many cafes have been forced to close. As of March 18, 2020, they have oat milk, dried bulk goods, bread and will be making stew and freezing portions. Reach them through their facebook page to request a drop off.

Cooking Questions

Added: March 18, 2020

Facebook:Ask Us Anything About Cooking While Social Distancing

Autostraddle’s food and drink staff are offering answers on cooking, food, and meal prep for folks who are not used to cooking for themselves very day, are impacted by panic buying in their communities, and having trouble accessing ingredients. Includes vegan, baking, meals out of canned goods, how to use random items, making stock, making meals out of whatever you have, elevating pre-prepared meals, how to use flour, and meals for kids. Ask your questions in the comment of the article. Autostraddle is a trans-inclusive, feminist online community for lesbian, bisexual and queer women.

BIPOC-led Gardening Resources

Added: May 6, 2020

Google doc:BIPOC-Led How To Videos, Gardening Projects & Online Learning Resources

Black, Indigenous, and people of colour-led blogs, tutorials, and videos on different gardening topics. Includes information on starting a garden, caring for specific crops, as well as tips for beekeeping, pest control, and foraging.

Support Groups

Chronically Queer

Updated: March 24, 2020 Added: March 17, 2020

Website:Chronically Queer

Meeting Link:Meeting Link

Chronically Queer will host online meetings during this period of self-isolation. They are open to creating more meetings if there is a need.

Chronically Queer is a peer-support group run by Creating Accessible Neighbourhoods, for LGBTQ2SIA+ folks with chronic health conditions. If you are queer and have a chronic health condition (any condition), you are welcome to join. They will be holding meetings every three days throughout the self-isolation period.

Wednesday, March 25th, 6pm (regular Vancouver meeting time)

Saturday, March 28th, 1:00pm

Tuesday, March 31st, 5:00pm

Friday, April 3rd, 1:00pm

Monday, April 6th, 5:00pm

Wednesday, April 8th, 6:00pm (regular Burnaby meeting night)

Saturday, April 11th, 3:00pm

Metro Vancouver Non-Binary Collective

Added: March 17, 2020

Website:Metro Van Non-Binary Collective

Facebook Group:Metro Van Non-Binary Collective

Group aimed at providing social and support needs for non-binary, gender non-conforming and gender diverse, questioning or confused individuals. They are planning social hangouts and meetings – schedules will be posted on facebook and website.

Peer Support Services

Added: April 28, 2020

Resource:Peer Support Space COVID Response

Peer Support Space offers peer-led support calls and online spaces for people of all ages (this is not a queer-specific resource). PSS offers both daytime and evening daily support calls, open to everyone (please follow the website link to be directed to the zoom meeting link; you do not need a zoom account to join the meeting). They also offer a closed Facebook Group called Peer Support Space Online Group. Interested participants can request to join the group here (everyone is welcome to join).

Support Group for LGBTQ+ folks in Recovery

Added: May 6, 2020

Resource:LGBTQ+ Online Recovery Meetings

Facebook group for LGBTQ+ people in recovery to connect with others and share resources. Not associated with any organization or recovery program.

Harm Reduction & Substance Use Supports

Guidance for People who Use Substances on COVID-19

Added: March 17, 2020

Resource: Guidelines

Information on using substances during the COVID-19 pandemic from Yale Program in Addiction Medicine. Includes harm reduction information on increased risk, handling supplies, preparing and managing your supply.

Online AA Meetings During Covid-19

Added: March 17, 2020

Resource:Online AA Meetings

Google document with a list of resources including an online meetings directory, speaker tapes, speaker tape apps, and online AA companion guides.

Using Drugs

Added: March 19, 2020

Resource:COVID-19 Harm Reduction Tips for People Who Use Drugs

Infographic and transcription of graphic of harm reduction tips for people who use drugs.

OAT and Prescription Rules

Added: March 19, 2020

Resource:Current Opioid Agonist Treatment (OAT) and Prescription Rules: COVID-19

Google sheet with information on current rules for accessing prescriptions – includes general info, emergency prescriptions, non-controlled and controlled substance refills and college of pharmacy info.

Recovery Dharma

Added: March 23, 2020

Resource:Recovery Dharma COVID-19 Information

Recovery Dharma uses buddhist practices and principles to heal addiction. This resource includes a list of online meetings which is being maintained and published online.

Employment

Employment Insurance Canada

Added: March 17, 2020

Website:Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)-Employment and Social Development Canada

Information on applying for Employment Insurance sickness benefits, employer responsibilities, employees rights, and work sharing information.

Applying for Employment Insurance in BC

Added: March 17, 2020

Resource:Applying for EI in BC during the COVID-19 pandemic

Google Document on how to apply for Employment Insurance in British Columbia. Breaks down the difference between different applicant types (workplace closures, self-quarantine, and quarantine)

Resources for Canadian artists, writers and media workers

Added: March 17, 2020

Resource:Resources for Canadian artists, writers and media workers during COVID-19 shutdowns

Google document with information on emergency funding, upcoming scholarships and awards, advocacy for freelancers, online training resources, health and mental health resources, and temporary/remote job opportunities.

Work from Home Template Letter

Added: March 18, 2020

Resource:High Risk Request for Work-From-Home Template Letter

Google document providing workers with a template letter to request work-from-home accommodation.

Mental Health and Anxiety

Self-Help Resources

Added: March 25, 2020

Resource:Self-Help Resources

Google Drive full of mental health resources – includes stress, self esteem, PTSD, Mindfulness & Meditation, Depression, DBT, CBT, Anxiety, ACT and more.

Online Counselling

Added: March 25, 2020

Resource:Tracy Wideman Counselling

Online counselling sessions with free consultation and sliding scale. Some free spots are available.

COVID-19 and Anxiety

Added: March 17, 2020

Article:COVID-19 and Anxiety

Article from the Canadian Mental Health association on managing anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic. Includes self-care tips, creating plans, self-management strategies and when to seek support.

What to do if you’re anxious or worried about coronavirus

Added: March 17, 2020

Article:What to do if you’re anxious or worried about coronavirus (COVID-19)

Suggestions for managing anxiety and worry during the COVID-19 pandemic from Anxiety Canada.

Tips for when the news stresses you out

Added: March 17, 2020

Article:Tips for when the news stresses you out

This article provides ideas on how to deal with anxiety and stress caused by negative news. Foundry offers young people ages 12-24 health and wellness resources, services and supports online and through service centres across BC.

Complete Mental Health Guide During COVID-19 Pandemic

Added: March 17, 2020

Resource:Mental Health Guide During COVID-19

Peak Resilience is a counselling service in Vancouver. They have put together a guide on dealing with anxiety during the pandemic, supporting children, elders and folks with chronic health conditions and a list of counselling options and mental health supports.

Free Mood Program

Added: April 14, 2020

Resource:Bounce Back BC

Free online skill building program to help those over 15+ manage their mood – COVID specific supports, help with anxiety, depression, low-mood. Program requires referrals – you can receive a referral online.

Free group counselling

Added: April 21, 2020

Resource:Living Life to the Full

Online course available to participants of any age. 8 weekly sessions are delivered by video conference and led by a trained facilitator. Sessions aim to help participants develop stress-management and mood-management techniques. Free virtual courses will be offered starting in May 2020.

Community Supports

Vancouver Survival Fund

Added: March 24, 2020

Application :Vancouver COVID-19 Coming Together Survival Fund For The People

Small-scale stipends for folks in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland to make ends meet. The fund is distributing $25-$100.

LGBTI COVID-19 Response

Added: March 23, 2020

Facebook Group :LGBTI COVID-19 Response

Facebook group for LGBTI folks for connecting our communities to information from epidemiologic and medical professionals dealing with the virus.

COVID-19 Coming Together

Added: March 17, 2020

Facebook Group:COVID-19 Coming Together (Vancouver)

Facebook-based network which connects people who are organizing for community support in Vancouver. Users can request aid, offer help, and share information. Group admins are moderating to help prevent the spread of misinformation.

Vancouver Queer Spoon Share

Added: March 17, 2020

Facebook Group:Vancouver Queer Spoon Share

Facebook-based network which connects queer people who need short-term or long-term help or care because of illness, injury, disability, or any other life challenge.

Mutual Aid and Survival

Added: March 17, 2020

Facebook Group:Mutual Aid and Survival

List of resources on caring for your communities written by disabled activists. Includes self-care tips from nurses, how to pod map for mutual aid, freelance artist resources, resource kits and more.

Community Organizing

DTES Response

Added: March 25, 2020

Resource:DTES Response

Coalition of organizations in the Downtown East Side uniting to respond to the COVID-19 crisis. Includes information on how you can help and donate.

Online Community Organizer Kit

Added: March 19, 2020

Resource:Buddy Up! Ask/Offer Map

Free advertising space for local businesses

Added: April 22, 2020

Resource:Bounce Back Canada

Bounce Back Canada is an initiative started by MinuteMan Press in support of local businesses. Businesses can sign up to receive free COVID prevention and awareness posters. Businesses can also apply for free advertising space.

Kids and Families

Flamingo Rampant Digital Storytime

Added: March 17, 2020

Facebook:Flamingo Rampant

Flamingo Rampant is a feminist micropress which produces racially-diverse, LGBTQ-positive children’s books. They are running a digital storytime through Facebook Live every weekday morning while schools are closed at 7:30am PST. This might be a little early for some of you, but don’t worry, their livestreams are saved on their facebook page!

Digital Stories from Canadian Writers

Added: March 17, 2020

Article:Canadian writers are sharing readings of their books online

A list from CBC of authors across Canada who are filming and live streaming readings of their books online. The list will be updated by CBC. Includes YA and Kids.

Online Concerts

Added: March 18, 2020

Resource:Children’s Musicians Across The Globe Perform Online Kids Concerts

Children’s musicians across the world are live streaming free concerts for kids. This link provides a daily schedule with multiple performances every day.

Story Time From Space

Added: March 18, 2020

Facebook:Story Time From Space

Children’s books are read from the International Space Station by astronauts reading to the children of earth. Website includes science videos, story videos, and curriculum.

Virtual Chat for Families

Added: May 6, 2020

Facebook group:Family Feelz

Twice weekly virtual chat for families/kids. Catering to queer and trans families but all families are welcome. Zoom chats require a password – join the Facebook group to get the password to upcoming calls, as well as access to other family-friendly content.

Homeschooling

Queer and Trans Homeschooling Group

Added: March 19, 2020

Facebook:BC Queer&Trans Reluctant Homeschoolers

Resources, support and encouragement for new home schooling trans and queer families during the Covid-19 school closures. Open to queer and trans families and teachers – focus on BC K-12 curriculum.

Homeschooling Group

Added: March 18, 2020

Facebook:It Takes A Village

Facebook group for homeschoolers who are learning how to educate their children at home. Support and encouragement for the unexpected journey of homeschooling.

Learning Toolbox

Added: March 18, 2020

Resource:Exploratorium Learning Toolbox

General science and timely topics – support for virtual classrooms and learning at home. Includes activities.

Seniors

We are currently looking into resources for seniors in the GVRD. Please contact us if you have any at communications@vancouverpride.ca

Disability

Disability Resources

Added: March 18, 2020

Tool:#COVIDdisability: Disability-Related Resources for Families

List of disability related resources by the Canadian Association for Community Living. Includes plain language information, information for caregivers, and information on discrimination, government support, and mental health. The list will be updated.

COVID-19 Information

Added: April 20, 2020

Organization: Self Advocacy Resource and Technical Assistance Center

Tool: COVID-19 Information By and For People with Disabilities

Information on COVID-19 for people living with disabilities. PDF includes information on how to prevent the spread of the disease, what to do if you get sick, and tips for talking to your employer and loved ones about COVID.

Working From Home

Welcome to Working From Home

Added: March 17, 2020

Facebook:Welcome to Working From Home

Tips on working remotely for those who are able to work from home from a consultant.

Working from Home – ADHD

Added: March 25, 2020

Video:A Simple Guide to Working/Learning from Home: HOW TO ADJUST

Video from How to ADHD on how to transition to working or learning from home. Includes research-based strategies for neurodiverse brains.

Sex Work

Sex Worker Relief Fund

Added: March 26, 2020

Resource:Sex Worker Relief Fund

Funds between $100-$200 distributed by PACE for sex workers who have been negatively impacted by COVID-19 and reside in Metro Vancouver. Prioritizing people of colour, Indigenous people, transgender individuals and members of other marginalized communities.

PACE Support Team

Added: March 24, 2020

The PACE Team is available to provide support for current and former sex workers of all genders. You can e-mail them at support@pace-society.org or call the below numbers:

Rachel – Support Worker (604-838-5097)

Monday – Thursday 10:30 – 4:30

Skyla – Support Worker (778-689-5243)

Monday – Friday 10:30 – 4:30

Kit – Health & Safety Coordinator (604-880-5914)

Monday – Thursday 10:30 – 4:30

Lindsay – Counsellor (604-828-4915)

Monday – Friday 10:30 – 4:30

Sex Work COVID-19

Added: March 19, 2020

Resource:Sex Work COVID-19: Guidelines for Sex Workers, Clients, Third Parties, and Allies

Guide by Maggies and Butterfly with info on COVID-19 transmission, protective measures, guidelines for sex workers, clients, third parties and allies, and community resources.

Notes on Coronavirus and Sex Work

Added: March 19, 2020

Resource:Notes On Coronavirus and Sex Work Part 1

Facebook note with information on precautions, a guide on what COVID-19 is and how it is transmitted, transmission routes, and what you can do.

Finances

Financial Planning During Covid-19

Added: March 19, 2020

Resource:How To Survive A Financial Emergency: COVID-19

Guide which assumes you have had a 3-month emergency savings plan. Updated daily. Has some information which may be helpful without savings including info on EI and applying for emergency benefits.

Sex

Stopping and Starting PrEP

Added: March 26, 2020

Resource:Stopping and starting PrEP during COVID-19

Information for people who have decided to take a break from using PrEP while they abstain from sex during social distancing. Information on stopping, starting, and changing daily doses.

Having Sex and Staying Safe

Added: March 19, 2020

Resource:Having Sex and Staying Safe Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic

Guide from HIM on different options to have sex during the COVID-19 pandemic.

HIV/AIDS

HIV and COVID-19

Added: March 19, 2020

Resource:What people living with HIV need to know about HIV and COVID-19

PDF Infographic with information for people with HIV. Includes info on how to stay safe, be prepared, support yourself and people around you, get treatment and know your rights.

FAQs for people living with HIV

Added: April 22, 2020

Google doc:COVID-19 and People Living with HIV: Frequently Asked Questions

A document providing relevant information on COVID-19 to people living with HIV.

Self-Isolation Social

Apocalypse Joy! (A Virtual Show and Tell Support Group)

Added: March 17, 2020

Facebook:Apocalypse Joy!

A meeting on Mondays from 6-8pm PST until further notice. A virtual show and tell support group for BIPOC and LGBTQIAA2SN+ and Allies.

Virtual Creativity Hour

Added: March 17, 2020

Facebook:Virtual Creativity Hour

An online meet-up through zoom for people to meet online and engage in a creative activity. Talk, drink tea, read a book and chill with others who are self-isolating. Organizing takes place on facebook.

Digital Events

ClubQ

Added: March 18, 2020

Instagram:ClubQuarantine

Nightly online queer dance party through Zoom App – begins at 6pm PST. Nightly zoom log in available through their instagram bio – instructions for how to connect in their story highlights.

Drag Entertainment

Added: April 21, 2020

Website:Haus of Fairfield

Book drag entertainment for private or public events. Haus of Fairfield allows you to connect with drag performers all around the U.S. 100% of the cost goes to the performer.

Entertainment

An Army of Lovers

Added: March 18, 2020

Exhibition:An Army of Lovers: Lesbian, Bisexual, Two Spirit, and Queer Women in the 1970s and 80s

An Army of Lovers is an oral history exhibition by the Archives of Lesbian Oral Testimony. Explore the work of local activists in the 70s and 80s through photos and audio clips (transcripts provided).

Lesbian, Bisexual and Queer Sci-Fi & Fantasy Shows

Added: March 25, 2020

Resource:The 100 Best Lesbian, Bisexual and Queer Sci-Fi and Fantasy Shows of All Time

The team at Autostraddle created a list of lesbian, bisexual and queer sci-fi and fantasy shows and scored them on a matrix including how many queer women were in the show, the quality of the show and more to come up with a Best Of list!

Free eBooks

Added: March 18, 2020

Reddit:Free eBooks list from Project Gutenberg

Project Gutenberg uploads free books that are in the public domain to make them available to the public. A reddit user has made the website accessible by creating genre lists so you can find free books easily. Includes a list of 250 kids books.

Asexuals in Fiction

Added: March 18, 2020

Resource:Asexuals in Fiction

A google document with games and comics, adult, young adult, tv, anthologies, podcasts, and poets that have canon ace characters. Document includes other categories of representation.

Digital Stories from Canadian Writers

Added: March 17, 2020

Article:Canadian writers are sharing readings of their books online

A list from CBC of authors across Canada who are filming and live streaming readings of their books online. The list will be updated by CBC. Includes YA and Kids.

Virtual Concerts

Added: March 18, 2020

Resource:A List of Live Virtual Concerts To Watch During The Coronavirus Shutdown

A list put together by NPR or live audio and video streams from around the world, categorized by date and genre. This is a living document and will be updated with new information daily.

Colouring Books

Added: March 24, 2020

Resource:UBC Library Digital Colouring Books

Free download library of digital colouring books. Includes maps and landscapes, mythical creatures, and Kelmscott Chaucer.

Trans, Two Spirit, Gender Diverse

Trans Care BC Updates

Added: March 25, 2020

Resource:COVID-19 Update: Gender-Affirming Surgeries

You can get additional information or support at 1-866-999-1514 or e-mail Transcareteam@phsa.ca

Updated when there is new information. Updates on services and surgeries – information on how to receive postoperative care.

Trans, Two Spirit, Gender Diverse

Trans Care BC Updates

Added: March 25, 2020

Resource:COVID-19 Update: Gender-Affirming Surgeries

You can get additional information or support at 1-866-999-1514 or e-mail Transcareteam@phsa.ca

Updated when there is new information. Updates on services and surgeries – information on how to receive postoperative care.

COVID-19 Information

British Columbia Non-Medical COVID-19 Hotline

Added: March 17, 2020

Call 1-888-COVID19 or 1-888-268-4319

Phoneline for non-medical questions related to travel recommendations, social distancing, and what supports, resources and assistance are available from provincial and federal governments.

BC Public Health Orders and Government Announcements

Added: March 23, 2020

Resource:COVID-19 Quick Sheet: Public HEalth Orders & Government Announcements

Quick Sheet of current public health orders and official government announcements – updated with new information highlighted. Compiled by BC MLA Bowinn Ma.

British Columbia Symptom Self-Assessment Tool

Added: March 17, 2020

Tool:Self-Assessment Tool

Tool developed with the BC Ministry of Health to help you decide if you need to be tested or treated for COVID-19.

COVID-19 Outbreak Updates

Added: March 17, 2020

Resource:COVID-19 Outbreak Update

Provides up to date official information on COVID-19 in Canada from the Government of Canada. Includes information on being prepared, travel advice, symptoms and treatments, prevent and risk, guidance documents, information for health care professionals, and Canada’s response.

Getting your home ready

Added: March 17, 2020

Resource:Getting your home ready for COVID-19

CDC guidelines to plan and prepare your household for a COVID-19 outbreak in your community. This guide will be updated as new information is available.

Plain Language Guide: COVID-19

Added: April 21, 2020

Resource: A Plain Language Guide about Covid-19 and some of the changes in our lives

PDF includes an easy to understand explanation of why we are staying at home, templates for talking about COVID, and ways to keep yourself entertained and mentally healthy during self-isolation. This guide was 100% written by individuals with autism and produced by Autistics for Autistics Ontario.

COVID-19 information in different languages

Added: April 21, 2020

Resource: Easy-to-read information about Coronavirus available in many languages

This website provides basic information about COVID in English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, and Hungarian.

Contact us at communications@vancouverpride.ca to add to our list, give us an update about a resource, or to let us know if you are concerned about a specific resource.