Grants to support 2SLGBTQIA+ community groups, provincial conference

A LakeCity Works program participant holds an intersex inclusive Pride flag pin in the workshop. (Province of Nova Scotia)

TRURO: Community organizations serving 2SLGBTQIA+ Nova Scotians are receiving provincial support for 11 projects, and there is also funding for a provincial conference in Truro this fall.

The investments support the Province’s first 2SLGBTQIA+ Action Plan, released earlier this year.

“All Nova Scotians deserve to feel welcome, safe and supported. As we mark Pride Month, we recognize the contributions of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities across Nova Scotia,” said Attorney General and Justice Minister Scott Armstrong, Minister responsible for the Office of Equity and Anti-Racism.

“We’re investing in local organizations to strengthen inclusion, create safer spaces and build more connected communities as part of our commitment to make Nova Scotia a province where everyone belongs.”

Community organizations are receiving more than $176,000 through the first round of grants in the 2SLGBTQIA+ Community Impact Grant program.

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Among the recipients is LakeCity Works in Dartmouth, which is receiving $25,000 for its Queer Careers program. It provides immersive paid work placements where participants learn employment skills, gain credentials and receive peer support to secure and maintain meaningful employment.

Beyond the grant program, the Province is providing $50,000 to Truro Pride for hosting a provincial conference this year.

The event will focus on strengthening connection, collaboration, knowledge-sharing and capacity across the 2SLGBTQIA+ non-profit sector in Nova Scotia.

Minister Scott Armstrong. (Province of N.S. photo)



Quotes:
“This support reflects LakeCity Works’ deep commitment to diversity and inclusion, with a strong focus on uplifting and empowering the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

“We believe that when 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals are supported to fully participate and thrive, it strengthens not only their own pathways, but the wellbeing of our entire community. By bringing diverse groups together, we foster greater understanding, connection and belonging across Nova Scotia.

“Thank you to the Office of Equity and Anti-Racism for supporting organizations like ours through this funding.” 
— Tim Vassallo, Director of Development and Partnerships, LakeCity Works

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“Creating spaces where people can come together, share knowledge and support one another matters deeply.

“This conference will help strengthen the relationships and collaboration that support 2SLGBTQIA+ communities across Nova Scotia. We are grateful for the opportunity to host this conference in Truro.” 
— Jillian Toonders, Chair, Truro Pride Society

Quick Facts:
– the Province’s 2SLGBTQIA+ Action Plan and the 2SLGBTQIA+ Community Impact Grant program were announced in January
– community-based organizations can apply for a grant of up to $25,000 per project through the program
– funding for the first round of grants in this program is from the 2025-26 fiscal year
– the office also provides funding through the Community Network Grant program