Learners employment heavily impacted by COVID-19
Rosie recounted how many learners lost their jobs, either temporarily or permanently, due to COVID-19. Some learners had to switch job sectors to find work, such as hospitality and factory workers moving to landscaping, painting, or construction. Additionally, many learners were not eligible for benefits, such as stimulus checks or paid time off.
And perhaps, most sadly, many were afraid to advocate for themselves, such as asking for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Many were concerned about saying the wrong thing or getting fired. However, for some more confident English-speaking learners in the program, this situation allowed them to advocate for themselves! Knowing English gave them the power to say, "I know my rights. I know what is required."
E-learning a struggle
Like so many with school-age children, families in the PDP-Literacy DuPage tutoring program had to weigh the pros and cons of the situation. They could work, which meant leaving children alone, or they could stay home to help with e-learning. Finding a caregiver could mean exposing the family to COVID-19.
For some learners with a more robust English-language foundation, their children's homeschooling allowed them to practice their English skills even more by helping them with the online learning process and assignments.
Tutors committed to staying in touch and Wheaton Bible Church's Response
Tutors in the PDP program are doing a fantastic job keeping up with their learners. Tutor-learner pairs have been staying in touch through Zoom or other virtual platforms, making phone calls or via snail mail. Tutor-learner pairs are looking forward to safely meeting again. Through their tutoring time together, they have become part of each other's lives and an extension of the family.
Through a "get help, give help" system and excellent case management, Wheaton Bible Church has been able to positively impact the community during this time. So far, the Wheaton Bible Church has conducted two food drives, serving nine different food pantries in the area. Throughout this time, the church has been safely dropping off food, diapers, formula, medication, and other essential items for those in need. Additionally, the church has provided around $35,000 to those needing financial assistance to keep their housing.
Overall during the last few months, Rosie has seen an uptick of people interested in becoming a learner in the PDP-Literacy DuPage program. We hope we can match all those interested in becoming a learner in the program with a tutor.
You can read more about the PDP partnership in August 2019's newsletter here.
