Salvation Army ESL Program Helps Newcomer Adjust to Life in Canada
Less than a year ago, Sara arrived in Calgary to join her husband, who had been in Canada for a few years.
At first, navigating a new country and language seemed overwhelming for Sara; however, with the support of The Salvation Army, she has improved her language skills and even found a way to give back.
When she arrived, one of the first suggestions Sara received was to go to The Salvation Army.
“People would tell me that The Salvation Army is a good organization,” Sara says.
After discovering that The Salvation Army in Calgary provided drop-in ESL classes, Sara eagerly enrolled in the lessons, hoping to enhance her English skills and expand her social circle.
“I like meeting Canadian people and learning about Canadian society,” she adds.
The ESL lessons have helped Sara improve her conversational English. This was her goal upon entering the program, as she felt comfortable reading and writing in English, but not speaking.
“I like meeting Canadian people and learning about Canadian society.”
“It has been a beautiful experience. The volunteers at the ESL program speak in a way that is easy for us to understand. They are very friendly, and they have helped me,” Sara shares.
Back in her native Syria, Sara was a teacher. Once she got to know some of the staff at The Salvation Army, she asked if there were any volunteer opportunities for her. With her background in education, a chance to volunteer for a children’s program came about.
The program is for preschool children up to age five and prepares them for school. In the program, Sara helps the children who speak Arabic.
“I try to speak English with the children, but if there is something that the children don’t understand, I explain it to them in Arabic,” Sara says.
Being involved with The Salvation Army allows Sara to regularly practice English with fellow volunteers and staff outside of the ESL classes. It also provides her with valuable experience for the future.
“The people at The Salvation Army have been so helpful and friendly.”
Sara’s current focus is to keep improving English. Early next year, she will be enrolling in school to perfect the language.
For now, she feels The Salvation Army has been beneficial in making her transition to Canada as smooth as possible.
“The people at The Salvation Army have been so helpful and friendly. I love them all. It feels like I have known them for a long time. I am happy to volunteer alongside them.”
By Juan Romero
