In late 2015, PIRS set out to fill a gap and respond to the needs of newly arrived refugee women and their young children. Language Instruction for Newcomers (LINC) programs had long waitlists, especially for women who needed childcare. We wanted to be more flexible, responsive and use a trauma informed framework to address the needs of our participants. With the support of generous donors, we piloted Community English for Refugees – a language class for refugee women. IRCC funding allowed us to expand this program to Burnaby, New Westminster, and Surrey. Our program was full and had a waitlist so, with the help of donations, we were able to offer two more classes in Burnaby.

CBC ran a news segment about our program: <external link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z8dJq5QHcac>

The success of the program wouldn’t have been possible without the work of PIRS pioneers: Natalia Verand (Program Coordinator, International Women’s Networking Table) and Amea Wilbur (Community English for Refugees), and is a continuation of the legacy of PIRS founders: Beverly Nann, Maryann Bird, Patsy George <internal link: Bursary page>, Rosemary Rawnsley, and Mary Affleck (a dedicated volunteer and supporter in whose name PIRS established Mary Affleck Volunteer Recognition award).