Being able to read, understand, and act on written material and numerical information is fundamental in our daily lives. People need basic skills to accomplish everyday tasks at home, at work, and in the community.
Even amongst Canada's relatively well-educated population, forty two per cent of working-age adults - 8 million people - have literacy skills below the minimum level needed to cope with the complex demands of everyday life and work in our global economy.
In Toronto, there are approximately 500,000 adults who need assistance with reading and writing; yet, at any given time, there are only enough places in literacy programs for less than 1% of those who need help.
A network of people and organizations supports adult literacy learners in the City of Toronto. The network includes the Metro Toronto Movement for Literacy (MTML), community literacy programs, the Literacy and Basic Skills Program of the Toronto District School Board, and Adult Literacy Services of the Toronto Public Library. MTML is the regional network that represents publicly funded adult literacy programs in Toronto and York Region.
Call 416-961-5557and talk with someone who will link you to the adult literacy program closest to where you live or work. This is the Literacy Access Network phone line, operated by the Metro Toronto Movement for Literacy with support from Canada Post.
The Literacy Access Network phone number is listed in the Yellow Pages under "learn", courtesy of ABC Canada and the Yellow Pages. You can also find the phone number by calling Answer Line at the Toronto Public Library: 416-393-7131.In addition, you can call 211 for information about community, social, health, and government services, and ask about the Metro Toronto Movement for Literacy
Once you meet with staff at a literacy program, a paid instructor or a volunteer tutor will instruct you for free. The Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges, and Universities makes this possible, along with additional support from local organizations and private donors.