Our Programs

Our programs are meant to empower single struggling mothers  and vulnerable children in West and Central Africa as they face a range of challenges, including economic instability, limited access to education and healthcare, and social stigmas. Strengthening their capacity can have a transformative impact not only on their lives but also on society as a whole.

We equally have programs which enable new immigrants from West and Central African countries to settle with ease in their new Canadian community. Our programs under immigration are meant for permanent resident and refugee status holders from West and Central Africa.

  • Group of children and women standing outdoors in front of a sign in a rural area, with some holding items and others with hands raised, surrounded by trees and greenery.

    Capacity Building for Single Mothers and Vulnerable Children

    Economic Empowerment​

    ​Skills Training and Education: We offer vocational training in fields such as tailoring, hairdressing, computer skills, or entrepreneurship. This helps single mothers gain financial independence and improve their earning potential.

    Microfinance: We provide start up capital to help single mothers start or expand small businesses.

    Income-Generating Activities: We help single mothers and their children identify income-generating projects that are culturally relevant and sustainable, like farming, weaving, or making and selling crafts.

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    Health and well being

    Nutrition Support: We provide healthy meals to children and mothers, especially in regions with high rates of malnutrition.

    Mental Health: Single mothers often experience high levels of stress due to financial insecurity, societal stigma, and family challenges. We create community support groups to help them cope with emotional challenges.

  • Group of children and adults, some in purple shirts, gathered in front of a building with backpacks and school supplies.

    Education

    JLGO encourages education in a variety of ways in west and Central Africa as well as immigrants from that part of the world to Canada.

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    School Fees and Supplies

    Many single mothers struggle to afford education for their children. We provide free school supplies and uniforms to ensure that children can attend school regularly through our yearly back to school events.

    We organize extracurricular activities, and mentoring programs to help children build confidence, leadership skills, and academic success.

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    Linguistic Integration

    Language Skills and Language Training: Many French-speaking immigrants arriving with a high level of proficiency in French may face challenges with Canadian French, which has regional variations and expressions. We help them enroll in language programs that focus on Canadian French idioms, workplace communication, and formal language use to ease their integration into both the labor market and Canadian society.

    Language Support for English Speakers: Since Canada’s official bilingualism also includes English, we also help immigrants who may not be proficient in English access English language training. This enhances their employability and facilitates integration into the broader Canadian community.

  • Empowering New Immigrants

    Language programs

    We help new immigrant from West and Central Africa get enrolled in French and English Language Training programs.

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    Cultural and Social Integration

    Cultural Familiarization and Awareness: With respect for distinct cultural backgrounds, including different traditions, culinary practices, and religious observances, we create opportunities for cultural exchange through cultural events and festivals to help foster understanding and appreciation between African immigrants and other Canadians.

    - We carry out Integration seminars were immigrants share their immigration experiences for better understanding.

    - We create Black Immigrant parent and children support groups to help facilitate their integration in to their new community. This is for parents and children to share the challenges faced with relocating to a completely new environment. We provide mentorship and coaching sessions for these group of immigrants.

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    Economic Integration

    Recognition of Credentials: We address the credential barriers faced by many immigrants who come with professional skills and qualifications, but may encounter barriers when their credentials are not recognized in Canada.

    Employment Programs: Since many immigrants may experience challenges in securing employment due to lack of Canadian work experience, unfamiliarity with the job market, or even discrimination, we help them secure employment through mentorship, CV writing, and job search so they can contribute to the Canadian economy.

    We also have sessions to prepare them for job interviews in order to make it easier for them to get their first jobs.

    Basic needs: we help them secure low-cost accommodation and provide them with seasonal clothing and groceries.

  • A group of people, mostly women, gathered outdoors on a dirt ground, engaging in a communal activity. Some women are wearing colorful traditional African dresses, while others wear more modern clothing. One woman is playing a drum, and several children are present in the background. The scene is set in a rural area with trees and houses visible in the background.

    Breaking Out of Isolation for Immigrant Seniors

    Elderly immigrants often face unique challenges, such as language barriers, lack of familiarity with Canadian social structures, and feelings of loneliness or displacement.

    Senior Social Clubs: We have created culturally specific social clubs within existing community centers where West African seniors can connect with others from similar backgrounds. Activities include cultural events, storytelling, music, dance, and group activities that honor their traditions and languages.

    Telephone or In-Person Check-ins: We perform regular check in either via calls or in-person visits weekly to make sure elderly individuals are doing well and have the support they need.

    Seniors’ Cafés: We organize senior-focused social spaces in cafés or drop-in centers where seniors can meet for informal chats over coffee.