Greenwich House Partners with International Rescue Committee to Provide Free English Classes
Breaking language barriers and promoting inclusivity, Greenwich House Lifelong Skills and Opportunity Center is teaming up with the International Rescue Committee (IRC) to offer free English classes from June 24 to August 24 and September 25 to December 15.
This collaboration aims to empower New York’s immigrant community and recently arrived asylum seekers, by enhancing their English language skills, furthering their education, and paving a path towards citizenship. Classes are being held at 27 Barrow St. on the 4th floor.
“We are excited to join forces with the International Rescue Committee to offer these free English classes,” said Jessica Ramos Cuttone, Director of the Greenwich House Lifelong Skills and Opportunity Center, which is a first-of-its-kind hub connecting out-of-work New Yorkers to employment opportunities and training.
As a settlement house, Greenwich House actively engages with communities, addressing essential needs and promoting civic participation. This partnership with the International Rescue Committee showcases Greenwich House’s commitment to supporting asylum seekers, refugees, and new immigrants, meeting community necessities with responsiveness and dedication.
“We believe that language skills are vital for economic stability and social integration, and this partnership will greatly assist many New Yorkers and recently arrived asylum seekers in their journey toward success,” Cuttone added.
The International Rescue Committee, renowned for its work in assisting people affected by humanitarian crises, will provide certified instructors to conduct ESOL classes for beginner and intermediate students . Morning and evening classes will be available. Through traditional written coursework and conversational exercises, students will learn to read, write, and speak in English.
For more information about the free English classes or to register, please visit the Greenwich House Lifelong Skills and Opportunity Center’s website at www.greenwichhouse.org/lifelong-skills, email adultenglishclasses@ircny.org. or call (917) 261-4598.
About the Greenwich House Lifelong Skills and Opportunity Center
The Greenwich House Lifelong Skills and Opportunity Center is a community-focused hub offering personalized support for personal and professional growth. It serves communities long-served by Greenwich House, including those accessing recovery, behavioral health, and older adult services. Services include resume assistance, job search support, skill-building courses, and employer partnerships. One-on-One support is available for benefits screenings, job counseling, and financial planning. The Center also provides a Computer Lab for printing, scanning, and technical support.
About the International Rescue Committee
The International Rescue Committee responds to the world’s worst crises and helps people affected by them to survive, recover, and rebuild their lives. Founded in 1933 at the request of Albert Einstein, the IRC assists individuals in overcoming adversity and rebuilding their lives in a safe and supportive environment.