Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages collaborated with Church of the Harvest and the Haitian American Family of Long Island, Inc. for an orientation at the Valley Stream Presbyterian Church for a newly launched adult English language-learning program on Jan. 11.
According to a news release about the event, this initiative was developed in response to the growing demand for English classes among Nassau County’s diverse community. Church of the Harvest, in partnership with HAFALI and Solages, welcomed dozens of adult students of various backgrounds and languages, including Haitian Creole, Urdu and Spanish.
The orientation provided a warm start to the program, the news release said. Attendees were given refreshments, the news release continued, as Solages delivered a motivational welcome speech. Attendees then participated in a screening placement session to determine their language proficiency.
“As our community continues to grow, it is essential that we provide opportunities for individuals to learn and thrive,” Solages said. “Language should never be a barrier to success. Through this initiative, we are not just teaching English; we are building confidence, fostering independence, and strengthening the fabric of our community. I am proud to support this program and look forward to seeing our students achieve their goals.”
As the event wrapped up, the news release said Pastor Curtis Thompson, of the Church of the Harvest, delivered a closing statement. “With a growing diverse society, we have the responsibility to also grow and engage socially,” Thompson said. “It is a privilege to partner with other organizations who have the same conviction and to be able to offer ENL from our location. Years ago, fulfilling the Great Commission meant crossing seas; today, you can cross the street- how can we not get involved? We look forward to continuing to offer solutions and grow with our community.”
The news release said Solages, HAFALI, and Church of the Harvest are committed to serving and engaging with the local community by offering these classes to non-native English speakers.
For more information about the ENL program, or to register, please contact Church of the Harvest at (516) 284-8212.