Make a donation

Why support the HLC?

We believe literacy is a fundamental right, essential for personal growth, fulfillment, and the well-being of society. It is the key to knowledge and empowerment, and access to literacy instruction should be available to everyone.

For over 50 years, the Hamilton Literacy Council has been helping adults improve their literacy skills, providing a strong foundation for adult learners to work towards their personal goals and make positive contributions to our community.

Donate now

Where do your donations go?

The Hamilton Literacy Council is able to keep our training programs free of cost thanks to generous donations from our donors and funding partners. Your contribution goes towards the purchase of tools and resources for both learners and volunteer tutors, including learning materials, teaching kits, tutor training sessions, and classroom programs, helping every student access free support to improve their literacy skills.

Monthly donations support

$10 per month funds the purchase of learner materials for one student to take part in a 10-week classroom program
$25 per month will provide one tutor with a teaching kit
$50 per month supports a 16-hour training session for 10 new tutors
$100 will help cover the costs of a 10-week classroom program for eight students

Recognized non-profit

Registered charity in Canada

As a registered charity in Canada, the Hamilton Literacy Council only operates for charitable purposes, and all our resources are devoted to charitable activities.

What our students and teachers are saying:

Testimonials

“[I’m proud] of [how far I’ve come] from the day I started to where I am now,” says Zahra. “I really love [the HLC], and I recommend it to everybody I know.”
Zahra S.Tutored Student

“As a retired teacher, volunteering for the Literacy Council taps into the joys I had in my profession. Helping someone become more literate has an impact not just on the student but also on everyone in the community, while making my own life richer. The Council’s excellent support is invaluable in achieving goals.”
Penny GumbertTutor

“When I applied to be a tutor at the Hamilton Literacy Council, I had no idea what a wonderful journey I was about to begin. Tutoring with the HLC has become a very important and rewarding part of my life. It’s a great organization. The staff are always pleasant and so helpful. Working with the Tutoring Program Coordinator, I feel well supported and part of an exciting and much-needed service to the community.”
Douglas BoyceTutor

“Speaking English was the most important thing I learned. I was too shy to speak before. I wouldn’t talk at all. Now my skills are much better.”
Samar N.Small Group Student

“Sometimes people get that ‘a-ha!’ moment, and their eyes light up a bit. They get it. They understand what I’m trying to teach them. I get a certain personal satisfaction knowing that with the help and encouragement that I've given [my students], they’re able to do something that they weren't able, or they didn't think that they were able, to do before.”
Rick DoelleTutor

“When I came to Hamilton Literacy Council, I was ashamed of my English. I couldn’t speak fluently, I didn’t know how to write e-mails or take notes on the phone. Now I can speak fluently, write and send e-mails, and make appointments by phone. Also, when I go to the doctor, I can explain to him what I feel. I can read fluently. Studying grammar helps me to understand complex sentences and write better. Since I came to this class, I’ve gained a lot of experience.”
NawalSmall Group Student

“I have more confidence now. I wanted to (get) a job, and I would think, ‘What can I do? How can I talk to them?’ But now I am satisfied I can talk and do a job very well.”
Aliya L.Small Group Student