Branch Of Nashville Inc

The english language learning program hosted 250 students from around 30 different countries speaking 15 different languages, with 150 students on a waiting list in 2024. Students came mostly from davidson, rutherford, wilson, and williamson counties in middle tn. The 19 classes - led by one full time teacher, 17 part-time teachers, one student coordinator, one career counselor, one assistant, and 3 regular volunteer teacher assistants - were available daytime and evening by video, in-person or hybrid. Students studied in levels basic-5 plus advanced, meeting 1.5 hours each class twice per week for 40 weeks. Students normally complete one level per year. Cambridge university's venture curriculum was utilized. In addition to our traditional classes, we also incorporate conversation partners, themed simulations of life skills events, and career coaching. A grant awarded through workforce essentials allowed students to only pay the cost of their workbooks, $43 per year. 13 students were enrolled in intensive ell, attending class 6 hours per week, and paying a fee of $285 per semester.

Comprehensive care is available to all clients who want to address the root issues of their food insecurity. Clients are connected to community resources and have the option of working monthly with a staff member, intern or volunteer coach who helps them define their short term and long term goals. The program launched in may 2023. In 2024, 181 clients signed up for the program, and comprehensive care made nearly 670 referrals to 50+ referral partners in the areas of workforce development, language acquisition, financial management, healthcare, immigration services, and more. Comprehensive care is staffed by one full-time staff member who is a licensed master social worker, 4-7 university interns, and 5-7 volunteers.

Food pantry recipients 60 years or older receive specialized care at the branch. Seniors do not need to have an appointment to receive food on wednesdays and have a dedicated phone number in order to reach the older adult care manager, seniors and disabled who qualify can get home delivery of food made by regular volunteers. To provide an opportunity for social engagement, the branch hosts a monthly meet and greet. Seniors receive resource navigation help for accessing social security and medicare and other needs such as housing, utilities assistance, medical care, and transportation. Of the 16,242 households served through the food pantry in 2024, 5,973 were older adults. While 37% of the food went to seniors, seniors made up only 6% of the unique individuals served. 885 deliveries were made in 2024 to seniors and clients with disability.