A Caribbean advocacy group has launched a fund to help LGBTQ people who have been impacted by the eruption of a volcano on the island of St. Vincent. The Eastern Caribbean Alliance for Diversity and Equality, which is based in St. Lucia, has created a fund to support members of the LGBTQ community and people with HIV/AIDS who have been affected by the eruption of La Soufrière that began on April 9. The fund hopes to raise $80,000. “We will provide immediate assistance to LGBTQ+ evacuees affected by the volcanic eruption and already battling with COVID-19 and discrimination in a region where they are criminalized,” said ECADE in a fundraising appeal. “Our relief assistance will include food packages, clean water, hygiene kits, sanitary products, clothing, heavy-duty face masks, relocation and housing support.” The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Chapter of the Caribbean HIV/AIDS Partnership (VincyCHAP) and Red Root will manage the distribution of ECADE’s donations supplies on the island. “Of particular concern is the situation of LGBTQ+ evacuees in a region where they are criminalized,” said ECADE Executive Director Kenita Placide in a press release that announced the fund. “LGBTQ+ evacuees and PLHIV (people living with HIV) may fall though the cracks or feel forced to hide their status, sexuality and/or gender identity to access help or avoid discrimination.” “We will do everything in our power to provide safe and affirming assistance for LGBTQ+ people and PLHIV in addition to women and children who face their own set of risks in disasters,” added Placide.