The provincial government is putting $64,494 into programs promoting adult literacy in Central-Northern BC.
The money will be split between the Prince George Native Friendship Centre, the Robson Valley Support Society, Valemount Learning Society, and Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy.
“I’m very glad to see some ongoing funding,” says Prince George- Valemount MLA Shirley Bond, “It’s a rigorous process, only the highest applications receive funding. But it’s so important that we have opportunities for adults in not just a city like Prince George, but in communities like McBride and Valemount.”
The Robson Valley Support society will walk away with an $23,367 slice of the pie, with PG getting the second highest amount at $18,000.
The non-profit community groups will offer free literacy training that in places like schools, Aboriginal friendship centres and community centres.
The program is tailored to suit the needs adults with lower levels of literacy, and is delivered by trained volunteers in one-to-one tutoring or small-group classes.
These grants are part of a $2.4 million investment into adult literacy this year.
“I’ve met adults who can’t read a doctor’s prescription, can’t read a bus schedule,” says Bond, “They’re basic skills, but it allows them to potentially consider further upgrading, perhaps an improved job situation… It’s one of those things most of us take for granted.”
Since 2001, the provincial government has invested more than $25 million in community adult literacy programs, helping approximately 100,000 adults improve their reading, writing and math skills.
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