The Halton Multicultural Council, also known as HMC Connections, is hosting free in-person English conversation classes for newcomers in Burlington this spring. The sessions are designed to help community members build confidence with everyday language skills in a supportive group environment.
The classes will be held at the organization’s Burlington office, located at 777 Guelph Line, Unit 204. The program runs every Wednesday from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, beginning April 15 and continuing through June 24, 2026. Interested participants are encouraged to register for the Basic English Conversation sessions to secure their spot.
These conversation circles supplement the organization’s broader language training efforts. For over 20 years, the agency has provided formal Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada, a program funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. While some organizations across the country have recently reduced language services due to changes in federal funding, the local council continues to provide these classes and offers transportation subsidies to help eligible in-person students attend.
The need for such services remains high as the local population continues to grow. Recent data indicates that the region has welcomed over 7,000 immigrants, making language support a key component of community integration. The organization, led by Board President Elizabeth Molinaro and Executive Director Kim Jenkinson, has served the area since it was founded in 1978. It now operates across four locations, including Burlington, Oakville, and Milton, to support permanent residents, convention refugees, and eligible temporary residents.
