NDP MLAs Katrine Conroy and Brittny Anderson say expanded adult literacy programs will help people in the Kootenays build essential skills
CASTLEGAR – New Democrat MLAs Katrine Conroy and Brittny Anderson say people looking to improve their skills in reading, writing, math, and digital literacy will benefit from increased access to free adult literacy programs across the Kootenays.
“Being confident in your skills makes such a difference and is key to finding new opportunities. With this investment, people can strengthen their skills and thrive,” said Katrine Conroy, MLA for Kootenay West. “Our government understands how important it is for education to be accessible to everyone and this funding will reduce barriers for people so they can reach their goals, both in their careers and in their community.”
Through Selkirk College and the College of the Rockies, the Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy is receiving funding for the following programs, serving the following municipalities:
- West Kootenay Adult Tutoring and Community Outreach Program & West Kootenay Community and Family Literacy Program – Castlegar, Kaslo, Nakusp, New Denver, Silverton, Nelson, Salmo, Slocan Valley, Trail, Rossland
- Adult and Family Literacy Programs in the in the East Kootenays – Creston
“Learning is life-changing at every age and people deserve to be supported at every step of their learning,” said Brittny Anderson, MLA for Nelson-Creston. “This funding will help open doors to new paths for many in our community as they work to achieve their dreams.”
The B.C. government invests $3.4 million annually to support the Community Adult Literacy Program (CALP). This funding will support 102 adult literacy programs in 132 communities, supporting over 16,000 people across B.C. This annual investment builds on last year’s 97 programs in 128 communities.
These community-based, adult, family, and Indigenous literacy programs help people gain skills in basic literacy, numeracy, life skills, and employment preparation. The programs are delivered by trained volunteers and include one-on-one tutoring and small-group classes.
Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023PSFS0049-001346