Tech nonprofit AsylumConnect has launched the first-of-its-kind mobile app for the tens of thousands of LGBTQ asylum seekers fleeing their homes for safer ground each year. AsylumConnect had previously been available as a dynamic web application.
“Our free app instantly connects persecuted LGBTQ people with verified safe services and support. With today’s launch, we have improved our platform’s mobile accessibility and user experience at this pivotal moment for LGBTQ and immigrant communities,” said Katie Sgarro, AsylumConnect co-founder and president.
From leaving their dangerous home country to resettlement, it is often a matter of life-or-death for LGBTQ asylum seekers to be able to easily connect with legitimate and LGBTQ-affirming lawyers and other direct service providers. LGBTQ asylum seekers and other LGBTQ populations (undocumented immigrants, homeless or isolated youth) use AsylumConnect as a free digital one-stop-shop referral site to meet their needs in all aspects of their lives, including housing, legal, medical, mental health, education and employment. Lawyers and other direct service providers also use AsylumConnect to gather verified referrals.
The AsylumConnect mobile app on iOS and Android offers an improved user experience and new features:
- Streamlined user experience: improved content organization, new bottom navigation, and fresh designs throughout the app
- New verified resources and locations: at launch, the app connects users to verified LGBTQ-and immigrant-friendly services in 25 U.S. states, Canada and Mexico
- Anonymity: designed to protect users’ privacy online
- Search filters: filter out services that require specific documentation (medical insurance, proof of age/income/residence, or a referral)
- Translation: available in over 100 languages
Next, AsylumConnect will introduce enhanced map visualization, offline capabilities, new locations and an integrated private online community for LGBTQ asylum seekers.
Since launching in 2016, AsylumConnect has connected over 11,000 unique users to verified LGBTQ-and immigrant-friendly services in the U.S. and has been accessed in over 150 countries. Financial and in-kind supporters include: Roddenberry Foundation, U.S. Committee for Refugees & Immigrants, Clinton Foundation, Brooklyn Community Foundation Immigrant Rights Fund, One Degree, Urban Justice Center’s Social Justice Accelerator, and Miller Center’s GSBI Social Entrepreneurship at the Margins Accelerator.
