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LIFE-SKILLS ENGLISH FOR NEWCOMERS: AT THE PHARMACY
VOCABULARY BUILDER:
Prescription = A piece of paper on which a doctor writes which medication he/she recommends for you
Antihistamine = Medication used to relieve allergy symptoms
Over-the-counter =
Available without a prescription
Pain-killers = Medication that relieves pain
Side effect = A secondary effect, often negative, that a medicine or procedure might cause
EXERCISE/VOCABULARY PRACTICE TEST
Remember to choose the most natural-sounding answer.
THINGS TO LISTEN FOR:
This won't make you drowsy. = This won't make you sleepy.
I'll have to double-check. = I'll have to make sure, to verify.
Your prescription expired last week. = Your prescription stopped being valid last week. (You need to get a new one from your doctor.)
We don't carry that. = We don't have/sell that item/medication.
Make sure to take these on an empty stomach. = Take this medication before eating.
RESOURCES FOR NEWCOMERS: VANCOUVER
(Check our other exercises below for resources in other places.)
Here's a practical guide to immigrant and refugee resources in Vancouver, BC - including settlement support, legal help, language programs, employment assistance, and community services:
SETTLEMENT & NEWCOMER SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS
• ISSofBC - A major settlement agency offering free settlement support, orientation to life in British Columbia, help accessing public services, employment and language assistance, and community connections for newcomers.
• S.U.C.C.E.S.S. BC Settlement & Integration Services - Provides settlement support, employment guidance, English language help, community engagement, and integration programs across Metro Vancouver.
• Settlement Orientation Service & ISS of BC Welcome Centre - Local centres where you can access settlement planning, referrals, connections, and resources to help you adjust to life in Canada.
LANGUAGE LEARNING & EDUCATION
ENGLISH CLASSES FOR REFUGEE CLAIMANTS
• Vancouver Family Connections runs evening ESL classes where refugee claimants can practice English and learn about daily life in Canada. Many programs are affordable or free/community-oriented.
LINC (LANGUAGE INSTRUCTION FOR NEWCOMERS TO CANADA)
• Free English classes for permanent residents and protected persons are often available through settlement agencies (like ISSofBC and MOSAIC) to build reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills and help understand Canadian culture.
Note: Community libraries (like Vancouver Public Library) offer conversation circles and language learning resources to help newcomers practice English.
LEGAL SUPPORT AND RIGHTS ASSISTANCE
MOSAIC Legal Advocacy Program - Offers legal information, advice, and referrals to low-income immigrants and refugees in Vancouver, helping you understand your legal rights and navigate the Canadian legal system.
Legal Aid BC - Government-funded legal support (referrals through settlement organizations or direct contact) can help with immigration law, refugee claims, and more. Settlement agencies often refer clients here when legal issues arise.
COMPREHENSIVE SETTLEMENT PROGRAMS
BC SAFE HAVEN Program
• A free integrated program for refugee claimants, asylum seekers, and certain visa holders, offering English support, job-search help, orientation to life in BC, mental health support, and connections to community services.
S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Immigrant Settlement & Integration Program (ISIP)
• Provides one-on-one settlement consultations, employment help, community engagement activities, and guidance to develop life and language skills for integration.
COMMUNITY SERVICES & SUPPORT
• Peer support groups & newcomer-focused programs: For example, ISSofBC runs peer support and leadership programs for immigrant women, helping build community and skills.
• Libraries & community centres: Offer informational resources, workshops, and referrals for newcomers.
• Volunteer and community networks: Local neighbourhood houses and volunteer learner-tutor programs help with informal English practice and social integration (check with community centres for current offerings).
TIPS FOR NEWCOMERS IN VANCOUVER
• Start with a settlement agency - they'll assess your needs and connect you with the right services (language classes, employment help, legal referrals).
• Bring your important documents - passport, immigration status papers, SIN, etc., when visiting service providers.
• Ask about LINC - federally funded English classes that can be essential for work and daily living.
• Use library and community events - great for networking, learning, and accessing free resources.
