Photo: Getty Images
MALDEN, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) – A local non-profit works to give immigrants a new voice by learning a new language.
While the pandemic has made it difficult for children to learn, it’s been equally challenging for adults who are trying to learn the English language.
The Immigrant Learning Center in Malden provides free English language classes to several hundred immigrants and refugees. However, when COVID forced the classes to shift to remote learning, those numbers notably dropped off.
Read More: Gov. Baker Responds To Gov. Sununu's Comments On Harmony Montgomery Case
Karen Oakley is the director of English Language Programs at the center. She said they were returning to the classroom until Omicron hit.
“Lots of students and staff either got COVID or were exposed to someone with COVID.”
Read More: Andover K-9, Who Helped In Boston Marathon Bombing, Takes His Last Ride
The center is back to online learning, but Oakley hopes they will be back in person soon. She added how impressed she is by the students’ determination to learn through these circumstances.
“Immigrants contribute a lot to our country, our communities,” Oakley explained. “Most of them want to learn English to be a part of that community.”
More information about the English Language Programs can be found online.
WBZ's Carl Stevens (@carlwbz) has more:
Follow WBZ NewsRadio: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | iHeartmedia App