Issues to consider before making a referral.

1. Make sure the client has enough stability in his/her life to be able to commit to learning. Clients who are still living on the street or who are actively using drugs or alcohol will have other priorities that will have to come first (e.g. housing, food, clothing, treatment etc.) before literacy help is attempted.
2. Talk to the client about commitment to learning. In order to succeed in a literacy program clients have to be able to attend on a regular basis. Even the programs that serve homeless clients will require some minimum level of participation. Also clients who participate sporadically will see little improvement and may get frustrated with their lack of progress.
3. As a staff person, consider how much time you have to devote to this referral. If possible offer to accompany the client to their first interview or intake at the literacy program. This often makes the referral much more successful. Also you may talk to the literacy program worker directly to see if a staff person can visit your agency.

Program Information

The following information is meant to be used in conjunction with the Referral Chart (see next page).

To make a referral:

1. Talk to the client about his or her needs and goals regarding literacy and/or upgrading. Remember to approach the topic carefully as outlined in the previous section.
2. Determine the client's target group (e.g. women, first nations, youth, etc.).
3. Consult the Referral Chart for the likely programs to refer the client to.
4. Look up the program name in the Program Information sections for specific referral details.
5. Select an appropriate program and work with the client to access that program.

Remember!

1. In Toronto there is a referral hotline for literacy programs called the Literacy Access Network (LAN). It is similar to the Street Helpline but specializes in adult literacy. At LAN they have all the program information for literacy, upgrading and ESL programs. If you need more information than is available here contact them directly at 416-961-5557 (Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm). Program information is also available on their web site, www.mtml.ca/lan.htm.
2. The program information presented here is up-to-date at the time of printing. If any information is incorrect please contact the Literacy Access Network for current details.
3. Many programs listed here have excellent web sites with complete program information. Check their web sites for more information.