Ontario Government Supporting Literacy for Immigrants and Newcomers

September 23, 2025

Province’s $63.9k grant supporting literacy tutoring in Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry

CORNWALL – Through a $63.9k investment from the Ontario Government, The Tri-County Literacy Council is celebrating the completion of their ESL tutor training manual, which will support English as a Second Language learners in Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry. This manual will be used for training up to 15 volunteers, equipping them with the tools needed to provide one-on-one ESL tutoring to newcomers and immigrants in the Cornwall area.

“Improving literacy in Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry is crucial to building and connecting our community,” said Nolan Quinn, MPP for Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry. “Through our government’s investment, the Tri-County Literacy Council was able to help newcomers and immigrants learn English so they can have successful and fulfilling lives in their new home.”

The project is integral in supporting newcomers in building essential language and employment-related communication skills. Through this project, The Tri-County Literacy Council aims to support over 65 individuals through direct tutoring while enhancing the volunteer experience and expanding organizational capacity.

“This grant allows us to respond directly to the growing need in our region for accessible ESL support, especially for those seeking employment and integration,” said Angela Vinet, Executive Director of Tri-County Literacy Council. “With the number of asylum claimants and newcomers rising in Cornwall, this initiative strengthens our ability to serve the community while empowering volunteers with new skills and opportunities to give back.”

Quick Facts:

  • According to the City of Cornwall, nearly 2% of the city’s population in 2022–2023 were asylum seekers — a number expected to grow.
  • The Ontario Trillium Foundation is an agency of the Government of Ontario, with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province.
  • To learn more about volunteer opportunities or program updates at the Tri-County Literacy Council, visit www.tricountyliteracycouncil.ca

Media Contact:

Adrian Bugelli
Office of MPP Nolan Quinn
613-933-6513
Nolan.Quinn@pc.ola.org