BUILDING LANGUAGE SKILLS WITH FOOD

Language skills play a vital role in the integration and success of newcomers who arrive to a new country. Language barriers often pose significant challenges for those wanting to adapt and thrive in their new environment.

Recognizing the important connection between language and food, JFS has had the opportunity to participate in two remarkable initiatives in which newcomers are being connected with the local community through shared experiences of language learning, cooking, and cultural exchange.

The JFS Kitchen, in collaboration with the BC Centre for Disease Control, offered the Food Skills for Families program, led by Lina Arias and JFS Chef Zoe. This initiative welcomed a group of Ukrainians, primarily women and their children, who left their homes in search of a better life in Canada.

The six-week program served as a platform for participants to learn about the Canadian food system and develop culinary skills while also practicing conversational English in a supportive and encouraging environment.

Jenell Parsons, Founder of The Pie Hole, has also taken a proactive approach to assist newcomers in her community. In addition to running her pie shop, she hosts pie-baking classes for individuals struggling to find available English courses.

She recently organized a session for a group of newcomers from Ukraine who were unable to access English language programs. By teaching the classes in English, Jenell not only teaches

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Don’t miss the 2021/2022 JFS Community Impact Report!

Scan the QR code to read it online, or go to: jfsvancouver.ca/ annual-reports