Adult learners in Cranbrook and area will benefit from one-time targeted funding of $59,200 for College of the Rockies to support literacy programs.

Kootenay East MLA Bill Bennett made the announcement this morning on behalf of Advanced Education Minister Andrew Wilkinson.

Trained volunteers teach the adult-literacy programs, offering one-to-one tutoring or small group classes. Each program is tailored to suit the needs of adults with low reading, writing and/or math skills.

“This funding renews our government’s commitment to enhance access to education, skills and training throughout the province. For adults wanting to enter the job market, this program will provide a tremendous opportunity for them to succeed,” Bennett said.

Local community organizations deliver the programs in partnership with public post-secondary institutions in their regions. The partnerships encourage the transition of adult learners from community adult-literacy programs into post-secondary studies and employment training.

Provincial funding for community adult-literacy programs is distributed to not-for-profit community groups to offer free training that is easily accessible in local places such as schools, Aboriginal friendship centres and community centres. In 2016-17, 91 grants will be funded, supporting 9,000 adult learners in B.C.

The funding for College of the Rockies is part of $2.4 million announced today toward community adult-literacy programs that will help adults in 85 communities throughout B.C. improve their reading and math skills.

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