The YMCA of Metuchen, Edison, Woodbridge & South Amboy received notification of a $3,000 grant award that will support the costs of their ESL Program at the Metuchen Branch.  The grant was received from Vernon Library Supplies, a husband and wife-owned company, who decided to donate all of their 2017 profits to non-profit organizations with programs designed to help new immigrants achieve English literacy and proficiency.  “Immigrants and their successful integration into the country have been critical to what has made American into the wonderful country it is”, said Shai Robkin, President of Vernon Library Supplies.  Judy Robkin added, “Successful integration of new Americans into our country is a deeply personal matter to us” noting that her father, a Jewish immigrant-turned American soldier, was able to achieve the American dream by receiving a college education through the GI bill.

 “Welcoming and engaging new Americans has always been a part of the YMCA’s mission”, said Rose Cushing, President & CEO of the YMCA of MEWSA.  “The Y feels strongly that now more than ever, we need to provide assistance to this vulnerable population and build bridges between diverse communities, rather than tearing them down.”

 The Metuchen Y’s ESL program provides the essential tools for integration into society and the workforce, creating opportunities for students to thrive personally, socially, academically and professionally and to encourage a culture of belonging, acceptance and connectivity in the community.  The ESL Programs offered at the Metuchen Y include ESL English Pronunciation Classes, Conversation Classes, Book Club, Walk and Talk, Citizenship Preparation Classes and Bring Your Own Device.  The Y is able to offer many of these programs through their collaboration with Literacy New Jersey, an organization that trains volunteer tutors to help adult learners and supports a network of literacy programs.

 If you are interested in learning more about these programs or to register, please contact Robin Guensch at 732-548-2044 or at mailto:robin.guensch@ymcaofmewsa.org.