The Bridge program supports vulnerable, at-risk English Language Learners (ELL). Students involved often come from refugee camps and are ages 15 to 19. They have had little formal education, few experiences in the community and are new to Surrey. The Bridge program helps students across the district acclimatize to their new environment while learning and building connections with others. Students involved in the program are supported in hands-on/minds-on learning in the community through tours, workshops and field trips.

ELL Welcome Centre is asking The Vancouver Sun Children’s Fund for $6,900 to provide cultural experiences and learning opportunities for refugees. These families are the most vulnerable in terms of language, schooling, and finances. The families supported are far below the poverty line, new to Canada, have limited English and are often from refugee backgrounds, which is a barrier to accessing resources and other opportunities in the community.