Supporting LGBTQ+ youths after family rejection
Smurfit Kappa is committed to creating a global workforce where all people are equal and where EveryOne can belong and thrive regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity or expression.
Outside of the workplace, we understand that family acceptance and support is critical for LGBTQ+ youths’ ability to successfully navigating stigma as they transition into adulthood. Although some families are supportive, accepting, and even celebratory, others may respond and behave in ways that have negative consequences and result in trauma to the youth.
In some cases, individuals may need to turn to organisations such as ‘Le Refuge’, a foundation which accommodates and supports young LGBTQ+ people, aged 14 to 25, rejected by their parents, kicked out of their family home, because they are homosexual or trans and/or questioning their identity.
As part of our EveryOne programme commitments, the Smurfit Kappa Foundation is proud to support ‘Le Refuge Foundation’ with a donation of €80,000 which will create an additional 30 shelter units in Southern France. Thanks to a network of volunteers and donors such as Smurfit Kappa, the ‘Le Refuge Foundation’ can provide shelter and support for over 200 young people each day.
Stefano Gambarotta, HR Director for Smurfit Kappa Bag-in-Box , recently visited the ‘Le Refuge’ and comments “It was a privilege to visit Le Refuge where I had the opportunity to meet some of the incredible volunteers and young people we are supporting through this recent sponsorship. It was a deeply meaningful day as I listened to the stories of some of the young people who have found themselves seeking refuge from their families and home countries due to their gender or sexual identities. I am proud that Smurfit Kappa can help play a part in supporting 'Le Refuge' and its young users."
“LGBTQ+ & Allies” is one of the communities within our EveryOne, inclusion, diversity and equality programme. It is our aspiration to create a global workplace where everyone is equal, belongs and thrives regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.