For many people, moving to a new country and adopting a new language and culture is difficult, but imagine how much more difficult it is when you're deaf or hard of hearing.

Thomas, who is deaf, came to Canada from war torn Sri Lanka.  Immediately, he had a need for a specialized course which would teach him English and sign language, as well as things we take for granted, such as money, banking, job searching, human and employee rights, privacy rights, and much more.  The Canadian Hearing Society had just the thing, a class called Literacy and Basic Skills which is designed specifically for this purpose.

Thomas credits CHS’s Literacy and Basic Skills program with helping him start on the road to self-sufficiency and independence in his new country.  Thomas has become a Canadian citizen, has found meaningful employment and is an active member of the community.