Adult literacy programs will continue in the region following an announcement of funding from the provincial government.
People seeking to improve their reading, writing, math and digital skills will still have access to free adult literacy programs.
The province invests $3.4 million annually to support the Community Adult Literacy Program. This funding directly supports the delivery of adult, family and Indigenous literacy programs that help people gain skills in basic literacy, numeracy, life skills and employment preparation.
Smithers Community Services Association Executive Director Myung Lee said they got some money for their Community Learning Services.
“This program operates based on community collaboration. We received $32,008 in funding through Coast Mountain College,” she explained.
The Oldtown Story Teller’s Foundation in Hazelton also got some cash for their Learning Shop Literacy Hub — which is also in collaboration with the college.
According to a press release from the province, across B.C., these programs served more than 5,275 core learners with 20.5 per cent identified as Indigenous; 68 per cent identified as female and 28.2 per cent as male. Other stats: 39.2 per cent were employed, 33.4 per cent unemployed 16.3 per cent retired; and 46.7 per cent had previously completed some post-secondary education or skills training. Also, more than 8,000 individuals accessed literacy supports on a casual, drop-in basis.
