Whether by sharing or by hiding their sexual orientation throughout their lives, LGBT older people often find themselves socially isolated or with financial or health problems. They may be rejected by family and friends or have found it impossible to continue with a partner or to form a family if they wished so.

Colectivo GAMÁ has developed “Te brindo la mano” (“I offer you my hand”), a service providing care and companionship for LGBT older adults. This program combats loneliness and generates a cohesive intergenerational community – through volunteering, help and advice in daily tasks, support calls, activities and meetings.

For the collective, there are many challenges on the horizon. They will continue to fight against LGBT-phobia by creating spaces for meeting and education and – defending social and legal equality for lesbians, gays, trans and bisexuals. Together they will continue achieving change such as the recently approved law passed by the Canarian Parliament that gives protection to trans and intersex people.

AtlasAction: Support Colectivo GAMÁ and find out how to volunteer.