On February 28, MOSAIC launched the Trans Newcomers Online Resource Hub. Approximately 30 guests attended the launch for a new online community service where newcomer transgender folks (refugee claimants, refugees, protected persons, immigrants, work/study permit holders, and anyone who feels new to BC) can access settlement-related information and resources, find peers and mentors, and build a network of support.
Funded by Trans Care BC, the hub offers information about community resources, medical services, language training programs, tips to newcomers (to BC), interactive Q & A, with online mentorship and webinar in the pipeline. The project is the result of a recognition from the Provincial Health Services Authority.
As it is an online resource hub, it is a global resource; everyone around the world can access the information.
Guests for the launch included Catherine Jenkins, Regional Community Network Coordinator, Trans Care BC, Provincial Health Services Authority and funder for the new service, who spoke about the importance of peer and community support for the trans community, and also acknowledged the work MOSAIC has done with trans newcomers.
Focus groups conducted with trans newcomers helped to inform the format, modality and content of the new online hub, which is overseen by trans consultants who are immigrants to Canada. Project Facilitators Alex Pershai and Chris Wolff reviewed the research and findings which led to inclusion of the site’s content and features before introducing the site to assembled guests.
