IKEA Canada says it is renewing its partnership with Rainbow Railroad for a third consecutive year, with proceeds from sales of its Rainbow cake expected to bring the retailer’s total contribution to the organization to $600,000 by the end of this year’s Pride season.
The home furnishings retailer announced that it will once again donate all proceeds from sales of its limited-edition Rainbow cake to Rainbow Railroad between June 1 and July 31. The organization helps LGBTQI+ individuals facing persecution and violence access safety through emergency relocation, crisis response and advocacy.
The renewed partnership forms part of IKEA Canada’s broader Pride season initiatives and represents the continuation of a fundraising program that has supported Rainbow Railroad since the relationship began.
“At IKEA, we believe equality is a human right and that everyone deserves a safe place to call home,” said Selwyn Crittendon, CEO & Chief Sustainability Officer at IKEA Canada. “Surpassing half a million dollars in total support for Rainbow Railroad is an important milestone, and a reminder of what’s possible when our customers and co-workers come together for a vital cause. We’re honoured to continue this partnership and to help create a fairer and more equal world for the 2SLGBTQ+ community.”
The company said sales of the Rainbow cake across its Canadian stores will contribute directly to Rainbow Railroad’s efforts to assist LGBTQI+ people facing significant risks in various parts of the world.
Rainbow Railroad chief executive Ilana Landsberg-Lewis said the partnership provides financial support for the organization’s operations.
“Partnerships like the one we have with IKEA Canada are essential in our work,” said Landsberg-Lewis. “The funds raised through the Rainbow cake directly support LGBTQI+ people who are experiencing extreme risk and need urgent pathways to safety. We are grateful to IKEA Canada, its customers and co-workers for their continued solidarity and support.”
In addition to the fundraising campaign, IKEA Canada outlined several Pride season initiatives taking place across its operations.
The company said all IKEA locations in Canada raised the Intersex-Inclusive Progress Pride flag on May 17, the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia, as part of its inclusion efforts.
IKEA Canada also said it plans to donate up to $40,000 to local 2SLGBTQ+ organizations through initiatives that include sales of its STORSTOMMA rainbow-coloured carrier bag and community partnerships. The funds are intended to support organizations that provide inclusive spaces and advocacy within local communities.
The retailer said its support for 2SLGBTQ+ communities extends beyond Pride-related campaigns and fundraising efforts. The company cited its global inclusion plan, education programs focused on unconscious bias and inclusive practices, training and resources related to inclusive language, and employee resource groups such as Rainbow Connections as part of its workplace initiatives.
The Rainbow cake will be available at IKEA stores across Canada until July 31.
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